Personal Stories

Get advice and perspective from families who have also been impacted by substance use or addiction.

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The “What Ifs” After My Son’s Overdose

On September 1, 2014, I drove my oldest son in an overloaded car to Worcester State University. I had never felt such pride in my 18 years of parenthood. I dreamt of this milestone. For months, I planned, shopped and looked toward an incredibly bright future.

I Was Blindsided by How Insurance Treated My Son’s Substance Use Claim

I practice insurance coverage law and was not clear on my rights for substance use disorder insurance coverage when trying to help my son.

I Got My Son Back: A Mother’s Struggle with Her Son’s Addiction

Our family suffered for years in silence through this horrific journey of my son's heroin addiction, but now we can speak of Ryan’s health problem out loud.

How I Knew My Daughter Was Using Substances and in a Mental Health Crisis

It was like a light switch — I asked myself, “Where did my daughter go?” I found out it was substance use and mental health issues at the same time.

My Son Is Caught in the Cycle of Patient Brokering

My son is a drug addict caught up in the vicious cycle of detox, treatment and relapsing perpetuated by the scheme of patient brokering. He's still in it.

Everything My Parents Did to Get Me Addiction Treatment

In my family, addiction was treated with the same love and affection as if I had suffered from any other potentially fatal illness.

I See Myself in Every Young Person With Addiction. This Is What I Want Parents To Know.

Here are a few things I’d like parents to know so they can best help their child – and themselves – through treatment and recovery.

I Thought Addiction Was My Son’s Problem. But Addiction Is a Family Disease.

When my son became addicted, I embarked on a journey to learn about preventing and treating this disease. I wish I knew then what I know now.