From Heartbreak to Hope: Gail Cole's Mission Against Substance Abuse
I don't wish this on my worst enemy to go through losing a child. So you know, I supported him and spoke and shared Brendan's story just as a voice, because, like I said, nobody was sharing it.
Gail Cole's journey is one of unimaginable pain and remarkable resilience. In this episode of 'Let's Talk About It', she opens up about the devastating loss of her 22-year-old son, Brendan, to addiction and overdose. Gail’s story is not just about sorrow; it’s about turning that grief into a powerful force for change. She shares the harsh realities of living with an addict, the heartbreak of losing a child, and the ongoing battle against substance abuse in our communities.
Gail delves into the impact of fentanyl on addiction rates and the tragic spike in overdose deaths, painting a vivid picture of the crisis many families face today. But it's not all despair. Gail also talks about the strides she's making through her work with the USRA Coalition, focusing on drug awareness and prevention. Her efforts are aimed at educating others and preventing more families from experiencing the same heartache.
This episode is a raw and honest conversation about the challenges in accessing addiction treatment and support, and why raising awareness is crucial. Whether you’re personally affected by addiction or simply want to understand more about this pressing issue, Gail’s story offers valuable insights and a call to action. Tune in to learn how one mother’s tragedy is inspiring a movement towards better mental health and substance abuse education.