Mother and Daughter's Battle Against Opioid Addiction: Insights and Hope
Sometimes the first phase a person sees when they wake up from an overdose is the physician, and you know those words sometimes hit with a greater magnitude than a loved one that has been hounding them the whole time, and so you know, bringing that hope and making sure that your words matter in that moment is really important.
Imagine facing the monster of opioid addiction and coming out stronger on the other side. In this episode of 'Recovery and Company', Michele Zumwalt and her daughter Sarah share their gripping journey through the opioid crisis. Michele, who has worn many hats as a speaker, author, and former law enforcement chaplain, brings a unique perspective as an addiction survivor. Her daughter Sarah, now in medical school, offers a fresh viewpoint from within the medical community.
The conversation dives deep into critical issues like prescription medication management and the life-saving importance of Narcan. Michele passionately discusses the urgent need for awareness around Fentanyl, a drug that's claiming young lives at an alarming rate. Together, they also shed light on their work in prisons, bringing hope to those battling substance use disorders behind bars. But it’s not just about the grim statistics and medical facts.
Michele and Sarah highlight the emotional and psychological impact of addiction, sharing personal stories that resonate deeply. One particularly moving moment is when they talk about the power of a physician's words to someone waking up from an overdose—a reminder that empathy can be a powerful tool in recovery. Whether you're dealing with addiction yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking to understand this complex issue better, this episode offers valuable insights and a message of hope.
Tune in to hear Michele and Sarah’s compelling story and learn how we can all play a part in combating the opioid epidemic.