Jeffrey Veatch: From Heartbreak to Hope After Losing His Son
Better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.
Jeffrey Veatch, a seasoned news writer for ABC News Radio, faced an unimaginable tragedy in September 2008 when his 17-year-old son, Justin, died from an accidental drug overdose. Justin, a talented young musician on the brink of recording his first album, left a void that could never be filled.
However, Jeffrey and his family decided to channel their grief into something meaningful by founding the Justin Veatch Fund, Inc., a non-profit aimed at supporting young musicians and raising awareness about addiction. In this heartfelt episode of Steppin' Out Radio, Jeffrey opens up about his journey through loss and the steps he took to transform his pain into a beacon of hope for others.
He shares candid insights about the importance of community and family involvement in preventing addiction, urging parents to stay vigilant and connected with their children. Jeffrey's story is not just about loss; it's about finding strength in the darkest times and using that strength to make a positive impact. Listeners will be moved by Jeffrey's unwavering commitment to turning his son's tragic story into a message of hope and resilience.
He talks about the significance of young people looking out for one another and the crucial role of family history in understanding addiction. Through his narrative, Jeffrey encourages everyone to never give up on themselves or their loved ones, no matter how bleak things may seem. This episode serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of profound loss, there is always a way to find light and make a difference.
Tune in to hear Jeffrey's inspiring journey and learn how he continues to honor his son's memory by helping others.