Dopesick: Unveiling the Opioid Crisis in Appalachia with Beth Macy
The opioid epidemic is not just about addicts and dealers, it's about a massive, intricately designed marketing campaign executed by some of the largest corporations in the world. - Beth Macy
Step into the heart of America's opioid crisis with bestselling author Beth Macy in this compelling episode of Cover 2 Resources. Her book, 'Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America', paints a vivid picture of how Appalachia was devastated by the epidemic. Macy's journey began in her hometown of Roanoke, Virginia, where she started reporting on the crisis in 2012.
After five years of intense research, 'Dopesick' was born, revealing the dark underbelly of corporate greed and its impact on vulnerable communities. In this episode, host Greg McNeil sits down with Macy to explore the twenty-plus year history of the opioid epidemic. They delve into the aggressive marketing tactics employed by major corporations like Purdue Pharma, which played a significant role in the crisis.
The conversation doesn't just stop at the corporate level; it also highlights the personal stories of families, doctors, and community leaders who have been fighting this battle on the ground. One standout story is that of Dr. Van Zee, a dedicated physician who has been at the forefront of opposing Purdue Pharma's promotion of OxyContin. His relentless efforts and community action offer a glimmer of hope in an otherwise grim narrative.
Macy and McNeil discuss how these grassroots efforts are crucial in combating the opioid epidemic and provide listeners with actionable insights on how they can contribute to this fight. Whether you're directly affected by addiction or simply want to understand more about this pressing issue, this episode offers a deep dive into the complexities of the opioid crisis.
It's a must-listen for anyone seeking to grasp the full scope of how corporate actions can devastate entire communities and what can be done to counteract these forces.