Grieving Out Loud: A Mother Coping with Loss in the Opioid Epidemic Angela Kennecke

Law enforcement has found deadly doses of fentanyl in some truly unexpected places, such as baby bottles and fake Jolly Ranchers. Our guest on Grieving Out Loud has firsthand experience with the strange and tragic ways this super-strong synthetic opioid is killing Americans.

Barb Walsh believes her daughter died from drinking a bottle of water that contained diluted fentanyl. Join us as Walsh opens up about her heartbreaking loss, the powerful message she wants to convey to other parents, and her tireless efforts to prevent more tragic deaths amidst our nation's fentanyl crisis.




Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

The opioid crisis, which claims thousands of American lives each year, traces its origins back to overprescribing painkillers. In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, hear the compelling story of a woman who defied the odds.

Jessica Chumley was a college graduate with a successful career, but her doctor prescribed her Oxycontin following surgery. Those pills led to a battle with substance use disorder that almost took her life. Today, Jessica shares her path to recovery and invaluable insights for those grappling with substance use disorder or other life challenges. Tune in for a powerful narrative of resilience, recovery, and hope in the face of adversity.
Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

According to U.S. census data, more grandparents are raising their grandchildren than ever, and the opioid epidemic is mainly to blame. It's hitting home for many families; Patricia Drewes' journey is a prime example. Her daughter's life was tragically cut short by a drug-tainted with a deadly dose of fentanyl.

In this emotionally charged episode of Grieving Out Loud, host Angela Kennecke sits with Patricia for an important conversation. We'll delve deep into her journey, discussing her insights into why her daughter turned to drugs, how she's navigating the immense weight of this tragedy, and her unwavering commitment to transforming her pain into progress through legislative avenues.

If you've lost someone to the drug crisis, Emily's Hope invites you to submit a memorial for your loved one at https://morethanjustanumber.org/
Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

As an Emmy Nominated Producer and Film Director, Kay Sumner has been making waves in the entertainment industry. She has an impressive track record, boasting three Emmy nominations and not one but two People's Choice awards. Her claim to fame includes being the co-creator and producer of the renowned show The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, but her most recent project aims to change the most lives.

Kay, along with her husband Murray, created the film Survivor. The compelling documentary ventures into the real stories of triumph over opioid addiction and the heart-wrenching tales of loss. However, for the Sumners, the film is more than just a project – it's a channel for grief and a heartfelt tribute to their late son. A talented musician, her son's life was tragically cut short by a drug overdose at 43.

In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, host Angela Kennecke sits down with the Sumners to delve into their mission,  their aspirations, and what they hope to achieve through their impactful work.
Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Like countless young boys, Chris Herren had an ambitious dream of becoming a professional basketball player. Chris turned his dream into reality, first playing for the Denver Nuggets and then achieving his ultimate goal of joining his hometown team, the Boston Celtics. But the life of a successful athlete isn't all glory. It comes with its challenges—long weekends, time away from home, stress, and pressure. Behind the scenes, Chris was also keeping a secret—a battle with substance use disorder that was wreaking havoc on his mind and body.

In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Chris opens up about the hurdles he faced, the obstacles he overcame, and how addiction affected every aspect of his life in unimaginable ways. But here's the incredible part—Chris has a powerful message to share with others who might be going through similar struggles. His story is about resilience, hope, and the fight against substance use disorder.

Chris now travels across the country, bringing his story to students, adults, and professional athletes. He's even created a wellness program, authored a book, and his story has been featured in a film to prevent others from going down the dark road of substance abuse.
Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Addiction is a complex condition, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution during recovery. On this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Angela Kennecke sits down with a highly respected psychiatrist specializing in addiction care. Dr. Hannah Statz DeVries is also a valuable Emily's Hope board member.

Throughout this episode, Dr. Statz DeVries will be addressing your questions on addiction and substance use disorder. We'll dive deep into the challenges individuals face seeking help, especially in the face of stigma and the misconception that recovery should be quick and straightforward.

Beyond that, we'll explore essential topics for family members supporting their loved ones during their battle with substance use disorder. Dr. Statz DeVries will provide valuable insights into the time and support needed for true healing to take place.

In addition, we'll venture into the most contentious issues surrounding our nation's drug epidemic and addiction, including harm reduction and the legalization of marijuana.

Be prepared for a conversation that will leave you with profound reflections and a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding addiction and substance use disorder. This is a discussion that everyone should hear, especially considering the critical challenges posed by our country's deadliest drug epidemic in history.
Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey