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From Heartbreak to Hope: Families Turn Grief into Action in the Opioid Crisis
We get to reject the punitive narrative and save more lives.
Hello, friends. Today, I want to share a deeply personal story that highlights a new approach to tackling the opioid crisis — an approach rooted in compassion, not punishment. As a family coach, I’ve spent over two decades working with families in crisis, helping them navigate the tumultuous waters of Substance Use Disorder and emotional health challenges. Let’s take a closer look at how families are turning their grief into action and advocating for more humane drug policies.
A Mother’s Story of Loss and Advocacy
Aimee Dunkle’s story begins with a devastating phone call that never came. Her 20-year-old son, Ben, was in the throes of a heroin overdose. Tragically, the friend who was with him didn’t call 911, fearing arrest due to Ben’s drug diversion program. The delay resulted in a catastrophic brain injury, and Ben died after eight days on life support. Aimee’s heartbreak is a familiar narrative for many parents grappling with the opioid crisis.
In the decade since Ben’s passing, Aimee, now 63, has channeled her grief into advocacy. She, along with other grieving family members, calls for compassionate treatment…
