James Rauh on the Fight Against Fentanyl: A Father's Mission
We're very afraid that someone will use this and turn it into a weapon that will go from individuals dying this way to mass casualty events. They know for certain that they're sending this material to The United States and it's killing our people.
Imagine losing a loved one to something as preventable as a drug overdose. For James Rauh, this isn't just a nightmare—it's his reality. In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev sits down with James Rauh, founder of Families Against Fentanyl (FAF), to discuss the harrowing rise of fentanyl-related deaths in the United States. Rauh, who tragically lost his son Tom to fentanyl poisoning in 2015, has since dedicated his life to combating this crisis.
He’s on a mission to have illicit fentanyl declared a Weapon of Mass Destruction, pushing for groundbreaking actions from the federal government. Rauh brings a unique perspective to the table, blending his background in the plastics industry with his deep understanding of science and chemistry. This episode isn't just about statistics and policies; it's a heartfelt conversation about loss, advocacy, and hope.
Rauh shares his journey from grief to activism, emphasizing the urgent need for universal fentanyl testing in hospitals and the power of community support. His story is a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of addiction and the importance of prevention and education. Whether you're personally affected by addiction or simply looking to understand more about this pressing issue, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.