Mothers Against Drug Deaths: A Battle for San Francisco's Future
One of the biggest things that I want to promote in our rally on August 21st is the fact that this is spreading from San Francisco out into the suburbs and I really see that many parents do believe- not my kid.
Gina McDonald knows firsthand the grip of addiction. Growing up with an alcoholic father, she followed a similar path, experimenting with alcohol and marijuana in high school. By 21, Gina was heavily drinking, and her struggle only deepened after being prescribed opioids post-surgery. Her descent into addiction saw her homeless and using meth until a sheriff’s intervention led her to treatment. Clean since 2012, Gina now plays a pivotal role in the recovery community.
In this episode of 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return', Gina joins host Joanie Sigal and Jackie Townsend, co-founder of Mothers Against Drug Deaths (MADD), to discuss the relentless drug crisis in San Francisco. Jackie’s journey is marked by tragedy—losing her son to an overdose fueled her mission to combat the drug epidemic. Together, they share their stories and the tireless work MADD is doing to raise awareness and push for policy reform.
Gina and Jackie dive into the heartache addiction brings to families and communities, emphasizing the need for robust community support and better treatment options. They highlight the importance of education and awareness in preventing addiction, and how MADD is spearheading efforts to change drug policies in San Francisco. This episode isn't just about personal stories; it’s a call to action. Gina and Jackie’s narratives underscore the power of activism and advocacy in battling the drug epidemic.
Their insights provide hope and practical advice for those affected by addiction, urging listeners to get involved in making a difference. If you’re looking for an episode that combines raw honesty with a strong message of hope and action, this one’s for you. Tune in to understand the depth of the crisis and discover ways you can contribute to the fight against addiction.