Breaking the Silence: Henry's Uncle Tackles Addiction Stigma with Let's Talk Portland
it's time for people, if they are comfortable to tell their stories- families who have gone through it as well- to tell their stories.
Ever felt like addiction is a topic no one wants to touch? Erik Kilgore, the heart behind 'Henry's Uncle', knows this all too well. After losing his brother James to a fentanyl overdose, Erik set out on a mission to understand addiction and recovery from those who have lived it. In this episode, Erik sits down with Gary Bloxom of 'Let's Talk Portland' to break down the walls of stigma surrounding addiction.
Erik shares his brother's story, painting a vivid picture of how addiction often begins innocently but spirals into a struggle that affects not just the individual but their entire family. He emphasizes the need to treat the root causes of addiction, not just the symptoms, and to view addiction as a medical issue rather than a moral failing. The conversation dives into the importance of community support and the resources available for those battling addiction.
Erik and Gary discuss how shifting the focus from law enforcement to treatment and support can make a real difference. They also touch on the broader issue of mental health stigma and how it intersects with addiction. This episode isn't just about sharing stories; it's about fostering hope and compassion. Erik's insights offer a beacon for anyone impacted by addiction, showing that recovery is possible and that stigma can be overcome.
Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that aims to change the way we view addiction and recovery.