Catherine Collins & Lisa Blanchard

Airing Addiction

Catherine Collins & Lisa Blanchard

  • Her Story: Joanne Peterson of Learn 2 Cope

Her Story: Joanne Peterson of Learn 2 Cope

Friday 23rd October 2020

Joanne Peterson discusses her journey from family addiction struggles to founding Learn to Cope, highlighting the need for empathy, education, and community support.
47 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate

About this podcast

Airing Addiction
Author:
Catherine Collins & Lisa Blanchard
Overview:
Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Sobriety Toolkit
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Creative Recovery Journeys
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
3 (View all)
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Joanne Peterson: From Family Struggles to Founding Learn to Cope

When I was a kid he always battled with alcohol and cocaine. It was more your sister's crazy and your brother's a drunk... So by he, you know, I was kind of forced out there. We're providing a service, not just a meeting, and anyone can just blurt things out.
Joanne Peterson’s story is one of resilience and transformation. As the Founder and Executive Director of Learn to Cope (LTC), Joanne shares her deeply personal journey that began in her childhood. Growing up, she witnessed her siblings grapple with mental illness and addiction, which set the stage for her future advocacy. Years later, the battle hit home when her own son’s experimentation with prescription drugs spiraled into opioid addiction.
This heartbreaking experience galvanized Joanne to take action, using her voice to create meaningful change. In this episode of 'Airing Addiction', hosts Catherine Collins and Lisa Blanchard engage Joanne in a heartfelt conversation about the inception and growth of Learn to Cope. This organization provides crucial support to families affected by addiction, offering safe and confidential support groups.
Joanne discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the need for these services, as isolation and limited access to treatment have exacerbated challenges for many. Joanne emphasizes the importance of prevention and education in combating addiction. She also addresses the urgent need for affordable treatment options and effective aftercare for those in recovery. The discussion touches on the broader opioid epidemic, including the controversial bankruptcy of Purdue Pharma, and the life-saving role of Narcan in overdose situations.
Throughout the episode, Joanne’s message is clear: empathy and community support are vital in helping individuals and families navigate the turbulent waters of addiction. Her story is not just inspiring but a powerful reminder of how one person’s determination can spark significant change. Tune in to hear more about Joanne’s incredible journey and the impactful work of Learn to Cope.