Stronger than Addiction

For almost ten years, my son Brian struggled with the disease of addiction. After we lost him in 2011, I struggled to make sense of what had happened. Inspired by Brian’s compassion, a vision emerged: to unite millions of Americans within one organization, empowering them to create change.

In April 2001, my son entered his first rehab. He was going to get fixed in 30 days and then everything would be okay, right? Well, no. Not at all. Recovery is an ongoing process. It’s not always easy, but I love my sons and I’ll never give up on them. 

After I lost Laura, I became focused on turning my misery into ministry. I hope my story can bring comfort to other families who have gone through this, and ease the feelings of helplessness that I know all too well. We are not alone. And we never forget those we’ve lost.

Doctors, government officials, and addiction specialists agree that medication assisted treatment is safe, effective, and even lifesaving for people with substance use disorders.  It all starts with the right treatment plan

We believe in a public health approach to the disease of addiction, and we’re working hard to get our laws and policies to reflect this, both on state and federal levels. We’re calling upon our nation’s leaders to prioritize common-sense goals and known live-saving measures.

After losing my sister to heroin, I know I’m going to be a different mother. Lots of communication, understanding, and no judgement. With the right programs and approaches, addiction is preventable.