Crisis Next Door - The Fentanyl Epidemic

The latest WRAL Doc, Crisis Next Door, shows how fentanyl has destroyed the lives of thousands of North Carolinians, what the state is doing to fight this epidemic and what more is needed to save lives.
North Carolina is in the grip of a drug overdose epidemic, with fentanyl being the primary culprit. The new WRAL Documentary, Crisis Next Door, focuses on fentanyl’s impact.
More than 4,000 people in North Carolina died from drug overdoses in 2021, the most substance abuse related deaths ever recorded in the state. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), 77% of those deaths involved fentanyl.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. When manufactured by pharmaceutical companies and approved by the FDA, it can be safely used to treat patients in severe pain. The synthetic fentanyl leading to many overdose deaths is made in unregulated labs, pushed by drug cartels, and put in various drugs as a cheap way to produce extremely strong substances.
“It's in every substance out there. It's in marijuana, it's in methamphetamine, it's in cocaine,” said Dr. Carrie Brown with the NCDHHS.
Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin. This means a very small amount, as little as 2 milligrams, could be a potentially lethal dose.
“We are in the deadliest moment of the deadliest drug epidemic in American history,” said North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein.
Confusion surrounding what fentanyl is and how it is killing people has led to a lack of empathy surrounding this crisis.
“You'd be hard pressed to find a family in the United States that hasn't, at some level, been impacted when you're talking about the numbers that we're talking about,” said Dr. Brown.
The latest WRAL Doc, The Crisis Next Door, shows how fentanyl has destroyed the lives of thousands of North Carolinians, what the state is doing to fight this epidemic and what more is needed to save lives.
Documentary Investigative Reporter: Cristin Severance
Documentary Videographer/Editor: Jay Jennings
Additional Videography and Graphics: Justin Arner
Graphics: Shan Zhong
Subscribe to Docs: @wraldocs
Follow WRAL:
Facebook: / wraltv
Twitter: / wral
IG: / wral
About WRAL-TV:
WRAL is your Raleigh, North Carolina news source. Check out our videos for the latest news in Raleigh, local sports, Raleigh weather, and more at WRAL.com
#localnews #northcarolina

[@DonnHowes]

Fentanyl addiction actually destroyed my life for over 4 years. Also suffered severe depression and mental disorder. Not until my wife recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment saved my life honestly. 2 years totally clean. Never thought I would be saying this about mushrooms.

[@KicksConceptsshoes]

Amen God bless people. Save your health save your mind. Life is better without heroin, fentanyl, alcohol and cigarettes. And you have more money in your pocket. God bless everyone who has rejected the devils intentions to be addicted to alcohol and cigarettes etc which can cause so much damage to health.

[@Malikrooney-hq5jj]

Can you help me with the reliable source 🙏. I'm 56 and have suffered for years with addiction, anxiety and severe ptsd, I got my panic attacks under control myself years ago and they have come back with a vengeance, I'm constantly trying to take full breaths but can't get the full satisfying breath out, it's absolutely crippling me, i live in Australia. I don't know much about these mushrooms. Really need a reliable source!! Can't wait to get them

[@SusanaGomez-mp8sk]

Hey! Yes Dr.benfungi

[@RodriguezGorge]

100% agree I used to have Psychosis and paranoid thoughts like "people thinking about me talking about me etc. Very odd behavior after getting off Adderall from 7-16. Antidepressants at 18-29. 31 now. I took way to much, but took about 20g of Gold caps (Psilocybin containing mushroom) I analyzed my entire life. The emotions that came out helped me understand behavior etc more. Wont ever need to do it again because I'm happy and contempt forever, but I wish more people did this to alter their perception of reality. Would help with healing much trauma

[@AndrewLiam-lp5cj]

How do I reach out to him? Is he on insta

[@garlicbreathandfarts]

Real drug education needs to be mandatory in all schools, like reading and writing. Drugs are not going away, that war is long lost.

[@Imsickofallyallseeingmyname]

Drug education in schools has been a thing for decades and the stats show it is EXTREMELY ineffective

[@derrekvanee4567]

@@Imsickofallyallseeingmyname in school it was only thing worse and lore lolz than sexed

[@tredjesongen]

The "education" with stigma and over the top penalty ,makes it more exciting . Moral judgement only drive vulnerable people to selfdestruct. Enough already.

[@josephriley4356]

The war on drugs was a smashing success. You may not understand the purpose of it that's all.

[@sanniwartinen3595]

Drug Education has been in schools for decades. Im 40 and remember learning about drugs/alcohol all through elementary school ( DARE ) and more throughout Jr High and High School.

[@catieq5270]

I’m a recovering heroin addict and have ten years clean. I am so grateful to have gotten clean when I did because I have no doubt that I would have lost my life if I kept using. If you are struggling with addiction, I promise you that recovery is worth it. You’re worth it. Everything you want is on the other side of fear if you give up drugs.

[@user-im2em7oc9x]

Thanks I really needed to hear that.

[@joeschmidt664]

Opiate addiction took more than 8 years from me. I been clean for 4 years from Opiates and 2 years from alcohol. I will spend the rest of my life trying to make up that time with my 2 sons. Who are now adults. My heart goes out to those still at war with it and to those we've lost to it as well as the families affected by it.

[@CJ-bp1id]

If you educate them... They should know better

[@joeschmidt664]

Meaning what exactly

[@janewainwright9756]

I've been sober almost 3cyesrs and am also doing all I can to make up the time to my family.

[@KingMark33]

I’ve recently came home from rehab for opioid addiction. I just want people to know that in most cases, addiction comes from unhealed childhood trauma. You can go to rehab 100 times…but until you address and heal from your trauma, you’ll probably be right back to substance abuse. I can’t stress enough how important therapy is. Of course it sucks that this drug exists. We can arrest all the dealers and people will still find a way to get pills. What we really need to focus on is why people struggle with addiction in the first place. A lot of focus should be placed on mental health, this is the reason for addiction. We need to address reasons for addiction.

[@AyaEgbuho]

Powerful

[@diorocks5858]

bullshit mate , anyone any time any history

[@floydsemlow8253]

​@@AyaEgbuho very💯❤️

[@lisalewis2334]

I agree with you and also feel like we need to teach our children how to be good parents and maybe, parenting classes in school? We can't give our children everything they ask for and we can't beat our children for every little thing because all we are doing is raising dysfunctional parents to be. I'm 57 years old, I was molested, physically abused and mentally abused and have struggled with drug addiction. I've been clean now for over 20 years but only because I got therapy. I was able to get to the core of why I was using so I agree with you totally on the need for therapy. I really do feel like parenting classes as early as jr. High isn't inappropriate. Give our children the tools to deal with crying babies, deal with being a single parent, teach our children that abuse is not acceptable by anyone in any form. Kids are so much smarter than I was, say at nine or ten. I wasn't caring about looking good for the boys the way they are now. I think parents have a responsibility to teach their children how to be a good parent but first they need to be taught how to be a good parent. I hope I'm making sense.

[@BlackCat-nv5sf]

The owners and shareholders of the big pharma which brought about this current situation should be disgusted with themselves and all the profits they made returned to the government to help all the addicts who are suffering and dying. Also the war on drugs need to end and the health industry needs to be supported in helping people get effective treatment for the disease of addiction.

[@bridgettefarley7796]

My son recently passed from this also. People are quick to judge that this addiction crises only happens to lower socioeconomic families and not the all American family. People need to wake up. This stuff is the devil and it’s not going away. 😢

[@Mattology1]

Yeah I see richer and poorer people are doing those hard drugs it's a mixed bag. I had a friend's brother od and die on heroin years ago middle class family Illinois. Billy. They tried to help him everything. Don't know why some turn to such hard drugs i don't get it.

[@nattyophelia7879]

@@pjdurkin8582 don’t do that. This woman lost her son, have some respect.

[@angelodoubel9653]

My sincere condolences to u Bridgette😢😢😢

[@tylerm0089]

It is scary that when I went to highschool there were a few kids that'd get heroin from downtown Chicago and kept it pretty hush hush. but these new blue fentanyl pills make heroin look like Tylenol or aspirin and are so small they can hide anywhere. If someone is used to taking vicodin or slightly stronger percocette, they could think the fentanyl pills are oxycodone like the stamp says it is. But from experience 1 blue fent pill is probably about 10 times the strength of a real 30mg oxycodone. So right off the bat people who are getting a new source need to break a pill into 8 pieces no joke, bc you never know. Real oxy is a luxury to come by these days for certain, so if you meet a dealer saying the have opiates, they are 90% likely to have counterfeit fentanyl pills.

[@chrisccc22]

Americans, especially the religious ones, are so judgmental and quick to punch down. Addicts often receive that punch. What you are witnessing is the biproduct of the de-industrialization of America. It's been going on for decades. ......................................................................................................................................... Almost all of the union jobs that required no postsecondary education have been shipped overseas. I can't believe that American's are actually proud of "The Rustbelt". Large cities that are decayed from abandonment. These poor people are coping with pain in the cheapest way they can, by numbing themselves. ....................................................................................................................................... The richest country in the world? On paper only. ................................................................................................................................................ I'm so sad for your loss. Please use whatever emotion you have to show love. America needs a movement involving everyone who has suffered such tragedy and loss.

[@4rson]

When I was working at a retail store there was a 17 year old kid working there via work program. During a part he went to for Halloween he snorted cocaine which was primarily fentanyl and he died. I have never been able to get that out of my mind. I can't imagine if any of your kids or family members have been victim to this or drugs, my heart goes out to you

[@kugelgnu]

Victim is someone who suffers against his will.... not a guy sniffing dope and die from it.

[@user-wy1dl2me2p]

Victim ?

[@brendaeaster8874]

My son, who is now 42, had very close calls with drugs and alcohol. He was also drinking and driving. He finally came to his sense on my birthday about 5 years ago. Thank God Fentanyl wasn't around then!!

[@zachpadilla5099]

It’s been around since the 90s we’ve just seen an explosion into mainstream culture. I remember my grandma having a fentanyl patch in like 2009

[@SalAcceturra]

@@zachpadilla5099 it's not been readily available in this form for very long at all. It's coming directly from China into Mexico then across biden's border

[@TG-fq6vy]

The parents of Amanda are the first parents I have ever heard that actually mention their daughter had a responsibility in this as well. I am so sorry for their loss. I also admire them for their clarity and honesty. Sending prayers.

[@casrun1oleary410]

Yes- taking responsibility gives you your power back, I wish more folks would take responsibility for what they choose to do because we all make the choice each day💞

[@MKiurinuRigold]

❤love the parents

[@Magna_Carta5]

I think that’s because it’s obvious. Is there really a need to state something that is already clear?

[@TG-fq6vy]

@@Magna_Carta5 Do you mean like you are doing right now?🙄🤣

[@hunnydoo7737]

Agreed. It's sad, and I totally understand that some parents have a hard time coming to terms with the fact that their very intelligent child could make such a dumb decision.

[@michaelyoung9628]

It’s hard to lose one child but losing 2 omg. Man I’m praying for that family

[@sidstovell2177]

Tell me there isn't a genetic component in some families. I'm old! I've seen addiction that was two generations back (Grandpa's alcoholism) show up in a grandson's drug addiction.

[@emfgdr3150]

@@sidstovell2177 That’s exactly why I refuse to try any substances. I’m 24 and never even tasted alcohol. All because almost everyone in family line has gotten addicted (even died from cirrhosis) and I don’t want to end up that way too 🙏🏻

[@CT-vm4gf]

@@emfgdr3150My family on my dads side are all heavy drinkers, including my brother. I stopped drinking 10 years ago and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done.

[@gowdsake7103]

Yeah that will help

[@TattyDarling]

See I straight away thought…what did the parents do to get 2 addicted kids? I was homeless from 17-23 and met many other severely traumatised kids that came from “good” families. They weren’t “good”….they were just good at hiding the fact that they were awful.

[@jasonwalls8996]

It wasnt Nathan's fault and it was at the same time. The mother was absolutely fantastic to see it the way she did. Real humanity right there. Well done.

[@russianaloha4576]

Addiction doesn't discriminate. And there's nothing better then seeing an addict in Recovery!! Im sorry to all those who lost a loved one 🙏

[@rurouniwolff]

i was addicted to cocaine for 6 years & meth for 2. im now 4 years clean & this was unbelievably heart touching

[@anelielowe9482]

Well done! 🎉

[@alexcienicole1284]

Im proud of you!❤️

[@sidstovell2177]

Wow. Just wow.

[@DocBree13]

❤

[@donk9189]

It’s delicious isn’t it ? I know u want it every day don’t you ?😂

[@santieldasavage]

Im currently in a treatment program for fentanyl abuse and I feel grateful for having survived this awful ongoing opioid pandemic. More power to those trying to change and Rest in peace to those who didn't make it 🙏.

[@debbiblakeslee]

Good luck and God Bless you ❤️ you got this 💞

[@plt1969]

Santiel, I wish you nothing but strength and good health. It takes ballz of steel to step up and ask for help, don't ever quit quitting and live your best days one at a time. I lost my baby sister to addiction and I don't wish the pain of loss on any family. Power is in sobriety ❤

[@bakhusreizen]

Qqqqqqqqq

[@kristiinakapinen2071]

Strength and love to you, and all who continue to fight! 🖤🐺

[@Onelightoftheworld]

I promise that you’ll have an amazing life if you can just take it one day at a time. I will have three years on April 6th. I’m so happy and I learned how to love myself. In turn, I no longer wanted to run and I have a beautiful life. I attended meetings, work a full time job, got married, bought a home and work with a sponsor. Most importantly, I have peace and happiness. Don’t give up!

[@theisabellaapaolaa]

My deepest apologizes for any family that has endured this feeling weather in this video or not. I will make DUA for all grief. Truly heartbreaking

[@songofyesterday]

I had drug education in middle school like everyone else, but it was Forest Gump that really hit it home that drug addiction ruins happiness.

[@jazmynhamer8431]

kevin’s mother is the epitome of strength and compassion wow. i was so moved by her display of humanity

[@sblack6765]

The forgiveness from the mother in court. Wow ❤ if something that good can come from such a horrible tragedy, don’t give up on hope for humanity ❤️

[@moniaco3462]

Since the 60's the CIA began to carry out strange experiments with its own people and foreigners with its MK ULTRA, LSD among other projects, now this fentanyl thing got out of hand and came from their country, Canada and China to the Mexican cartels and now Mexico is in the crosshairs to become the new Iraq. invade and destroy Mexico. If the american government doesn´t deal with the root problem, the laboratories destroyed in Mexico by that government will be useless.

[@ganrimmonim]

To the father at around four minutes, it is not your fault in any way. It sounds as if you did a wonderful job raising your daughter. I hope she is at peace in her place of rest.

[@deborahconstanzafigueroa4807]

What's nobody asking why so many people need drugs ? What is happen that society can't live without drugs

[@dameoftruth4022]

Wow, losing two sons. My heart aches for them.

[@leea1988]

I'm normally pretty stoic but I was in tears watching this. RIP to those lost to this - and all - drugs.

[@danielisaac7586]

How have I gone 38 years of my life and never done a single drug other then a couple of beers once or twice a month? How did I manage that?

[@Q12FundMDesign]

same here, hit right home 😢

[@CT-vm4gf]

@@danielisaac7586Circumstance is how.

[@rulerofomicronpersei8]

@@danielisaac7586 idk, you tell us.

[@user-uj8sq1xh1b]

My daughter has come out of addition and has just got the paperwork & leased the building for a women's rehab in Jenkinjones WV; 1 year 2 graduate, faith based. Pray for chains to be broken 💔❤

[@reneesantiago6496]

My brother died of a fentanyl OD about a year ago. He got into a fight with his addict girlfriend and used alone. He was found 2 days after his death. I think the only answer is to follow those cities that have safe drug clinics. You do your drugs at the clinic and it’s clean needles and there are nurses and a Dr there to administer Narcan if needed. It’s really the only way to save these lives. Let’s keep them alive and work on helping them get sober.

[@thecirclesareround]

I lost my 18 year old sister to this horrible stuff. She would be turning 21 today. If you lost a family member to this I am so sorry for your loss and I cry along with you. I hope we find peace one day

[@peterinfante6187]

Sorry for your loss! My condolences to you and your family.. Everyone's loss for that matter. Happy 21st to your sister in heaven. 🙏❤️🤗

[@BrownEyedBeauty2008]

This was such a moving story. The mom is incredible. Finding the strength to not only forgive the man that handed her son the drugs that killed him but befriending his wife? That shows so much strength. I don't know that I could do that. Now they're making a difference together. That's beautiful. His death will not be in vain with their determination. Hopefully when Nathan gets out he will do the same. His perspective would be much more hard hitting for the people already in the drug world. Just lovely all around! May Kevin rest in peace 🤍

[@ericnelson6982]

I feel the same, such a moving story. They are so genuine, I know they will reach other people with such a positive message.

[@romanovkazdavicovich3996]

Moms are probably the strongest peoples on planet Earth, their determination, strength for protect and help their kids are just absolutely amazing ! Mommies are the strongest person, no doubts in my mind. The situation looks catastrophic in the 🇺🇸 about the opioïds crisis, really hope the best for this people. In Russian Federation we got an atrocious crisis about drug called « crocodile drug » years ago. This drug rotten the flesh and so many peoples died or got emputated ! Today, the situation is under control Sorry for my English language, I don’t know speak English language. Wish you the best, sincerely ☦️✝️

[@moniaco3462]

Since the 60's the CIA began to carry out strange experiments with its own people and foreigners with its MK ULTRA, LSD among other projects, now this fentanyl thing got out of hand and came from their country, Canada and China to the Mexican cartels and now Mexico is in the crosshairs to become the new Iraq. invade and destroy Mexico.

[@fernfreeman1729]

Rehab facilities are where contacts are made, but quite often, it's contacts for easy access to drugs once they get out. It's happening daily in America. Addicts leave, their system has been without for a while, so they're at serious risk for an overdose. Many die just days after leaving Rehab facilities

[@KindaSemiCompetent]

I don’t do these kinds of hard drugs, but as someone who was called “brilliant” all through high school and did well in college, and who is now struggling to find purpose in life , I understand how people fall into these things.

[@georgemeloo7645]

Try joining the "peace corp"..It will change your life perspective..

[@claudiaacosta1304]

You were created for a purpose to Glorifiy God to have a relationship with the Lord Jesus who loves you and gave up His life for you ❤️ so whoever believes in His name will be saved

[@KindaSemiCompetent]

@@claudiaacosta1304 Yeah I don’t believe in that nonsense

[@kilowlow8691]

@@KindaSemiCompetentmaybe that’s why you are struggling. You need a higher belief…because God is real.

[@jaqwatson9425]

@@kilowlow8691delulu

[@wind28631]

That was powerful. The mom forgiving the guy and befriending his wife is central for recovery.

[@Tully_23_32]

Out of the sadness of all the stories their friendship & to work together to try & help for better melted my heart. To me that shows the wife & her husband weren't bad people & had genuine feelings of sorrow, regret & remorse. The mother showed that she knew her son did have issues, not that he deserved to die but wasn't a mum that looked past her son's issues like other parents do. The mum had forgiveness as she knew her son wasn't perfect & chose a bad path in life before he had time to fix it. It also, in a very sombre way brought two strangers together from opposite sides of the courtroom to form a beautiful friendship to try & do good in this world as two ladies on opposing sides yet came together to be on one side. They're both beautiful & loving, caring & supportive women that both can stand hand in hand to tell their stories from both sides but united as one & if they can save one life then that's worth it

[@LilmissChi]

My younger sister Niya was a 22 year old mother, college graduate and future nurse. She was poisoned with fentanyl last year. She wasn’t a drug addict she is a victim. You never think this would happen to you until it happens. This drug tears families apart.

[@universalservicetechust3578]

What happened 😢

[@lexi8317]

How was she exposed? I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm a registered nurse who was exposed via treating a drug addict in the hospital who was using while there unbeknownst to us.

[@nickiekovaleski2734]

Sending Neverending Prayers,hugs,& ❤ to you & your Precious Family So Heartbreaking 😥😥😥 May your Sister R.I.P. in the Loving Arms of Jesus

[@chrisfalx3251]

@@lexi8317 If you have one opiate addict in your hospital right now and you’re not giving them opioid bet your ass they’re sneaking bags withdrawal doesn’t just disappear

[@chrisfalx3251]

@@lexi8317 Matter of fact anytime I need to go to hospital for anything and I knew I was going to be there more than four hours I would have to bring bags in and do them in the bathroom or when my dad was dying and we were there for days on end I was meeting my guyOutfront I’m sure you know this but you’d be surprised how many of your coworkers are in the bathrooms right now doing a little bumps of dope

[@rhondam3090]

My heart goes out to all the families that has lost a child to this horrible drug. I lost my son Colby he was 26. Never had he done anything like this before.. my life will never be the same ..he had such a.beautiful soul and loved every one. He left behind a beautiful boy he had twins and had. Lost one at 4 months old. .. not only I lost my son I lost my grandson 4 months before losing my Colby.. he was full of life. I would love have.all these horrible people that have taken our loved ones put away. I cry every day was in shock for a long time. God bless each of you that are suffering. The pain of losing a child is the worst pain in the world..I would love justice for my son and find out who sold this deadly drug cause to me it was murder. Theses people knew what they was doing. My son never had done the drug before and I think he thought it was something else cause he loves his babies and loves being a father. He was a hard worker and he was and is my heart. God bless and comfort you Rhonda McLaughlin in memory of Colby McLaughlin passed away October 23 2021

[@loulou9297]

RIP Colby

[@simplelife805]

The forgiving mom's action is so powerful. THere's no way out than forgiving. One of the root causes of addiction is lack of emotional intelligence: lack of awareness and management of self and others. Seeking fun outside of us, low self love, seeking validation of a nonsense friend, ... leads this. So heartbreaking. Sorry if I look judgmental.

[@karenrhodes9973]

I am lost for words. So very very sad that people do this to themselves. My thoughts and prayers to anyone who experiences this tragedy.

[@michele2855]

This is a powerful video. That mother’s forgiveness brought me to tears. This is a horrible problem here in Canada as well

[@all4lovelove4all24]

I am Canadian and I have lost 4 friends from drug overdoses. Its not fair how people just want to get high but end up dying because other people want to make money.

[@sidstovell2177]

​@@all4lovelove4all24 Drug addicts end up taking more and more drugs, not to get high, that's long gone, but just to feel somewhat normal.

[@AlbertCamiuXOXOXO]

@@sidstovell2177 iam a drug addict, and only 10 days clean. Its a horrible thing to be addicted to putting synthetic substances in your body, but it does make the pain go away entirely, and even if it lasts for just couple of hours its nearly impossible to not take that chemical. I’am only 18 yrs old and already battling with this bullsh. I dont want to die this young… and its true, we take more and more and more until it eventually kills us or we decide to try and find happiness in feeling pain but staying sober through it, the sad thing is that not many of us live up to this moment and die from just a little bit too much. If anyone is fighting this war inside you at the moment, stay strong, it is worth it. Take one day at a time

[@zosiazaremba7479]

​@@AlbertCamiuXOXOXO It's been a while, I hope you're doing well

[@tristanmason7405]

Those two women are phenomenal and I believe they will “get through” many barriers and reach several of those currently battling addiction! I feel such women are the real backbone of families.

[@brandonknight7240]

I dont think promoting drugs is a good thing

[@chrisccc22]

@@brandonknight7240 The "War on Drugs" has ben going on for 40 years. Who's been promoting it? The government that's who. The religious that's who. A national treatment plan is the only option. Time to buck up USA. The so called richest nation in the world.

[@mritalianhillbilly]

Giving drug dealers the green light to keep on selling

[@Iguazu65]

Such immense tragedy. It’s near impossible to imagine this a parent. Also terrifying. The dignity of these people in the face of such loss, is incredible.

[@rickboer7715]

The most powerful documentary you will ever see on the power of forgiveness. It will bring you to tears,

[@Ktn1968]

My husband lost his oldest daughter Ashley to a fentanyl overdose in 2017 so this hits extremely hard for our family. My daughter Skylar lost her only sibling (whom she never physically met 😢) at the ripe age of 13 and there was a time during the next few years that she too could have succumbed to drugs and alcohol to ease the pain but instead she vowed to never use drugs in her life and instead give back to the world by studying to become a nurse. My sincere condolences to the parents and families in this documentary that lost a child too! We know your pain and wish you didn't 😢

[@DocBree13]

❤

[@getreal4real169]

🙏 😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@andrewb9603]

I'm in Canada. Just outside of Toronto. Happening here too. Record number of ODs on a daily basis. Lost souls everywhere..

[@johnmusser8925]

Darwin awards for voluntarily removing themselves from gene pool

[@lonelyboyll08]

My cousin used to be an addict in Vietnam. Everyone thought his life would be ended up on the street, he got 100k USD in debt, his parents didn't get along... But somehow he woke up from that nightmare. Step by step, he paid his debt, gained back people's trust and now he has 2 sons and a lovely wife and a few real estates. I hope all people got addicted will realize they are much more stronger than drugs. Drugs could help your problems go away a few moments but it's you who make problems go away forever...

[@BryanEstrada-kh8se]

Im currently addicted to fentanyl and trust me its very hard to quit. I wish one day i can finally be sober. Im determined to quit but its so hard to get through the withdrawals.

[@cherryfranklin]

Please before it’s too late. Please get help. Ask God to help you, please 😢

[@Nicole73672]

Think about how lovely it would feel to have optimal health

[@laurel7570]

I have heard the withdrawals are severe.

[@Onelightoftheworld]

The parents that lost two of their sons is horrific!

[@pimdegroot9656]

It’s heartbreaking to hear these stories of pain, grief and impotence. As an European it’s hard to fully grasp the horror. Addiction is a global phenomenon but in some places it has shaped into this out of control situation. I can’t believe it’s just a result of overprescription of opioids. There must be something societal that is fundamentally out of order for people to want to anaesthetise their existence.

[@sidstovell2177]

Totally agree.

[@unturned6066]

Normalization of drug use, societal denial of the damage it does... and I think the disconnected infrastructure in US makes in worse. Kids going to college are days travel away from their support network (and common sense). Colleges/universities in US are at this point well known for harmful cultures (frats, hazing, rape, drugs, parties are a requirement...) not to mention how expensive it is to live in some places, which makes it harder to pull yourself out.

[@ey67]

The earth is the dumping ground for the mentally ill of the universe. Aliens are too blame. I see them all the time dumping them into a trumpster dumpster heading to the landfill called Congress. 😅

[@helenellis9472]

I will add...that this has been purposely introduced!! By those we trust who have power over the general population of this planet.

[@Nicole73672]

​@unturned6066 how should we fix it ? It's agonizing

[@zackzhang6335]

I feel so sad and deeply moved while watching. It's heartbreaking listening to those parents telling stories about theirs children in a controlled pace. Why does the world have to be like this.

[@anamarialopeztrevino8776]

It is one owns RESPONSABILITY! One makes the choices and has THE POWER to say: NOOOOO!!!!!!!!

[@ashleyerin7069]

Seems like the best way to not die from a drug overdose is to be a horrible person that doesn't light up a room and isn't someone who's larger than life

[@kokokat584]

Lol

[@weemaggiejiggs8832]

😂

[@stevesmom9868]

Not funny

[@ashleyerin7069]

@Steve's Mom That's good because it wasn't meant to be funny.

[@suryatkurma7466]

My heart goes out to all the victims and their families. I had goosebumps when she hugged Nathan. Kevin s mom is beyond my imagination 😢. God bless her

[@operasinger2126]

This kills me. People please stay away from today's street drugs. Fentanyl could be in anything. Please take care and stay safe.

[@joec.5009]

i live in seattle and we are in fentanyl hell. this drug is killing our country.

[@johnr5252]

The users are. They know full well the dangers of using it.

[@heaviniswithin5049]

Wow, I cried when the mother and Nathan hugged, her compassion is astounding and inspiring. And it is clear that Nathan really is sorry for what he did. Thank you for showing this to us.

[@damianpharaoh161]

How you gonna feel sorry for white people after what they did to black people during the crack era in which THEY brought drugs into the black communities? Shame on you

[@woutervanlent5181]

No Heavin , you don't hug the murderer of you child or forgive him . The man was in his forties when he gave him these drugs , he should have known that drugs harm people .

[@MorganAmerica]

THIS WAS AN AMAZING STORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am a recovering alcoholic and I felt and understood every moment & emotion portrayed in this piece!!!! So glad I stumbled upon it!!!!!

[@MaterLacrymarum]

There is a point where all addictions merge into a single problem with similar roots. Well done on your sobriety, Ferris.

[@videorocketzmillar007milla5]

Just remember you are a valued person and truly loved. I used to overeat as my mom was one who hated me. Told me too. But I mustered up courage to stop overeating to feel better. It was hard but worth it. I cant drink cause I get sick but food was comfort. You can rise above anything. U did im so proud of you. Sure parents are imperfect like us. Maybe we got raised by some who didn't care about us. Or they drank as a way to escape their pain. But we don't have to copy their course. We can break free. My parents and bro are dead. Only one left is my heroin addict bro. He wasting away and been in 20 plus rehabs in 40 years! A walking skeleton. For my own sanity I don't associate with him. He even hid drugs in my home! I found it threw it in the toilet. Came by next day sweating g like a pig. He never would tell me what he wanted and I'm not going to ever let him shoot up in my house! Mom didn't help when she was alive. She found bent spoons and asked me. I said he's an addict wake up mom! She slapped me in the face and said no he is not. When u have that disfunction in the family its beyond horrible. Anyway thats no excuse for me to over eat but that was my coping mechanism. But now after 20 years I'm finally healthy. Somewhat. All the stress made me have some health prob but I'm managing. All I'm saying is just keep doing great despite yoyr upbringing. We all have horror stories. When I finally lost weight and got my bro out of my life I feel great. I really do. I love him but I can't anymore for my own mental health. I'm so proud of you. Just don't look back just look ahead. Yes I love u more!!! Pj😊

[@cynthiabarber6614]

I am also a recovering alcoholic.. Well done Ferris ♡

[@MorganAmerica]

@@MaterLacrymarum Thanks so much

[@MorganAmerica]

@@cynthiabarber6614 Thankssssss

[@kristinetannous6150]

I couldn’t stop crying this whole documentary. So incredibly sad and what makes it sadder is that there is still such a stigma attached to addiction. I think that needs to be the first step to fixing this. Society finally seeing addiction as a health issue and not a criminal one. #wedorecover

[@alexiscatley567]

“If I could switch places with him I would. In a heartbeat.” I hope Nathan’s life improves. RIP Kevin

[@wtfsamusidk7574]

I'm 32 I have lost so many people to this.

[@elizabethbrown8833]

💔🦋🙏🏻

[@natashasmashnuk1180]

Me too. Sorry for your loss. I hope you don't lose more

[@just10case]

In my 30’s too I’ve lost more than I can count and years of my life, not to mention prison.

[@patricejackson6718]

Likewise and I’m 33

[@MUFC1933]

Never heard of it England

[@DirtySk8RatStaney]

That mother forgiving her sons killer was amazingly powerful!.. I can’t imagine the strength and courage it took to do that. I have three kids, if anyone took one of them from me… I’d hate them till the day I died! She’s definitely stronger than I am…

[@brown4692]

He didn't kill anyone he didn't take a gun to the guys head and force drugs into him and they met in jail so the boy wasn't going far as it was

[@eibhlinnichrualoai]

So much addiction, so much lack of love, empathy and compassion. I lost the love of my life to addiction and most of my own life..powerful. Thank you. Recovery, support and community action is desperately needed.❤

[@davide.b8027]

Love the way the mom at the end just stares at her husband. You can see her feeling his pain. 💔

[@crazyralph6386]

One of the few documentaries that establishes right off the bat, the huge difference between prescription fentanyl and the illicit fentanyl being produced. Being in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, I know several people with severe chronic pain, who wouldn’t be able to function without prescribed fentanyl transdermal patches, as ingested painkillers were causing them severe digestive issues? In a controlled environment, they’re now able to now maintain a quality of life, that otherwise wasn’t present before using the patch(in which ALL used ones have to be accounted for before refill). Most doctors, politicians and anti prescription drug advocates, tend to blur that line between FDA approved fentanyl, and the Chinese basement manufactured fentanyl, which is what’s killing all these people.

[@DocBree13]

Agreed!

[@anitachin596]

I have read that the rise of “street fentanyl” came about to replace “drug company fentanyl” when the prescriptions were no longer filled. I think I understand that the companies are being sued by some States ? Street sellers and drug companies are all capitalists I suppose. Plus, no shade, but this is a very sympathetic presentation of these families. Very different language and presentation from earlier drug epidemics.

[@mikeduncan2353]

Thats me im in pain 24/7 after a back surgery that has left me half of what i was and i still cant get any meds i gave up on doctors ,been 4 years and im old

[@daniellematherly1848]

as someone who's currently addicted to heroin|fentanyl, I can say that, this is by far the worst addiction that I've ever had.. this has been the hardest thing I've ever had to go through.. it's taken other people from My life, as well as caused Me to lose purdy much everything that has even remotely mattered to Me.. & I'm being completely honest when I tell you that, b|c of how extremely horrible that the withdrawals are & really, just the closest that I've ever came to death or wanting to die, I have yet to stop or want to quit b|c it's seriously the most worst thing that I've ever experienced.. I've hurt & felt in places I never knew existed & in ways, that I never even thought possible.. I don't wish this on My worst enemy! I pray for anybody who knows anything about this struggle & how bad it truly is... & I pray that, I myself am able to somehow or another, move forward without this addiction being the main thing that My life consists of.. I hate that, this is what I've become or who I've allowed Myself to turn into...

[@dbldonky8742]

I hope you can get help and get clean 🙏🏽

[@akc1739]

You can save your own life. It’s hard as hell, but never give up on yourself. There is no shame in this. Just address it, and live a wonderful life based in gratitude for just surviving this. You absolutely can do it ❤️

[@CarrieHall]

Give yourself a chance. Try medically assisted treatment like suboxone. I am praying you find the light. ❤

[@tigrressa]

You can do it! I was hooked on opioids then fentanyl for 10 years. There a rehabs that take Medicaid. I went to rehab for 5 days on 10/18/22 and got out and never used again. They give you medicine for the first 4 days. Then I didn’t take anymore meds because I didn’t want to be on anything anymore. The body is resilient. Everyday is better than the last. Once your hooked your just using to NoT get sick. Not get sick or die are the only options. Don’t judge yourself. Moment by moment. Step by step. You are made of same stuff worlds are made of. You can do it! First you need your health. Once you do that you can rebuild relationships and get material things and live your life. You can’t do that dead. That’s what I told myself. ❤ sending you lovelight

[@rt66vintage16]

Danielle, get off it now!

[@TheZig726]

You're crazy if you do any drugs off the street today. Period. Glad I made it out alive.

[@loulou9297]

Right!

[@inklingduckling7087]

My neighbors who are 71 and 72 years old are fenty and meth addicts. Its sad and dangerous. The elderly are struggling too.

[@laurenchristianna2092]

😱🥺 who knew? jeez...

[@williamwilson6499]

Struggling with what? Stupidity?

[@sidstovell2177]

Decades ago, AARP had an article about aging alcoholics. Why not? You've been abusing alcohol for years, not going to stop in your cranky old age. I'm very old, so can say it: they're a huge danger behind the wheel of a car. No, thanks for the offer of a lift, I'll take a cab.

[@ndetrixhe]

Thank you for this video. We lost our beautiful son to a speedball in 2013. He hadn’t tried fentanyl, but did talk about it, so I knew there wasn’t much time. Still miss him every day.

[@annatanneberger1]

I was taking an illegal substance and didn't realise it contained another illegal substance...

[@thegoddesswithin8859]

To all of the people surrounding the loss of Kevin Cummings. Powerful, powerful stuff. Thank you for sharing. 🙏🤗🕊

[@DebraGill]

Now it’s mixed with tranq, a whole new nightmare.

[@james3440]

Really heartbreaking, in the rooms there’s a saying, “Some need to die for others to Live” it’s cold but true. Much Respect for these parents to face this head on and share they’re stories so that others can live. That mother is right, your life will never be the same if you take this drug. It’s not worth it.

[@sandyfrazer3886]

These parents are so brave. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@ericamiller3585]

Praying for all of those that are in the grips of addiction... Praying for those of us that are the family of loved ones lost in this battle.

[@frankwoods4532]

This is so heart breaking to see and hear. In the past I had some friends that started smoking crack. I didn't know at the time what they were doing but I could see how over time they were changing. As time went on they couldn't hide the fact that they were addicted. At that point I had no problem telling them to stay away from me and don't come to my house for any reason. Years later I saw one of my former friends and he looked like walking death. It's safe to say that he's not with us anymore. He lost everything. I feel that any kind of street drug they are not your friend. Very sad!

[@moniaco3462]

Since the 60's the CIA began to carry out strange experiments with its own people and foreigners with its MK ULTRA, LSD among other projects, now this fentanyl thing got out of hand and came from their country, Canada and China to the Mexican cartels and now Mexico is in the crosshairs to become the new Iraq. Invade and destroy Mexico. If the american government doesn´t deal with the root problem, the laboratories destroyed in Mexico by that government that effort will be useless.

[@Nicole73672]

You were smart to distance yourself. Obviously you know that. I pray for our youth to remain diligently distant from such hard drugs also

[@kristy4619]

My son in Raleigh NC bought a cart that he was told was only containing pot but was laced with fentynol. He almost OD and has never done any drug willingly except Marijuana. It scared us so bad. Luckily someone stopped at his wreck and gave him narcan.

[@Truthbomb918]

Tell yourself that and ignore what probably really happened. He got a drug from an illegal drug dealer and got cheated, wow.

[@kokokat584]

That's BS they d put it in weed your son's a liar

[@CrashOutTiming718]

Ya fr. There’s no fent In vape carts !

[@kristy4619]

@@CrashOutTiming718 maybe it was stored with the carts.

[@Bob-bm1fk]

Legal pot shops are the way to go. Lab tested products. And a controlled environment. Chain of custody.

[@olives2426]

fentanyl killed my brother. my heart goes out to these families ❤ I am a recovering alcoholic, and I would love to get involved in this fight.

[@cloutmuzikbeats]

Great documentary 😢

[@chimom7112]

I have watch many of the fentenal overdose videos. This is the first time i have heard of them giving out fentenal test streps. What a great tool in the fight. Need to give those and narcan out to everyone.

[@caracowdrey4748]

The test strips aren't always accurate unfortunately. and now they're adding xylazine into it. which there's no test strip for it and Narcan doesn't work on it because it's not an opiate it's an animal tranquilizer

[@janshe3597]

@@caracowdrey4748 Exactly, none of these professionals even mentioned Xylazine, that’s a shame, missed opportunity to educate people about it…SMH…

[@ChefBardo]

the dea cracking down on oxys was where it all went bad. i watched it unfold from the first time i had ever dealt with someone whom i loved and eventually destroyed, my mom.

[@jbigs444]

You're the only person I've ever seen mention this. I too witnessed lots of people become heroin addicts once they reformulated oxycontin so it couldn't be crushed down anymore.

[@Hollyferris]

It can be traced back further than that. It was the reckless supply of ‘legal’ oxy. Then when you take that supply away people will access illicit supply. Then when you take that away…

[@Jen-ii2xf]

Prayers to the parents who lost two sons.. love to you both and your family 💛

[@weatheredraven3006]

This docky had me in tears, I hope everybody in the US sees this.

[@lori3774]

I find it creepy the Moms smiling.

[@BeYJaNn]

My 24 year old cousin passed as well from laced Pills , I had Zanex addictive tendencies for years and finally 2 years sober and don’t crave it anymore ! It’s constant effort to avoid triggers forever 😢. I pray for everyone who survives this ❤

[@christopherikechukwueyidah5928]

What a wonderful and enlightening piece of journalism. Truly educational. Where there is darkness light can be found. There is hope if people work together and provide the tools for individuals to make better decisions.

[@kunalsaxena20]

It takes a big heart to forgive your son's murderer. More strength to you mam.

[@shannonsollman3509]

Traveling every year to Europe, and you don't see Europe's youth dying from drugs and hooked on drugs as many Americans. There is something more going on here, because my significant is European and they don't have these issues in Europe with drugs like we do here, including drugs for antidepressants. Something is fundamentally wrong in our country period.

[@samsonoluwatosinomoloyin9469]

Beyond the drug addiction, I believe that America has a mental health crisis. Even in my country (not Europe), there is no drug use on this scale.

[@johnfernandez2060]

I’ve been doing Caine since I was 13. I just started testing it a couple years ago after every bag I get. TEST YOUR CAINE/ PILLS

[@kelly_villalobos]

Or don’t do drugs

[@johnfernandez2060]

@@kelly_villalobos yeah but drugs are pretty good

[@Linda-qt8qk]

This video is a tear jerker. I feel the pain in these people. They have been devastated in the worst way. Rip for the previous souls lost to this terrible epidemic and condolences for their families. I have children myself and I can’t imagine losing one. May god help us all.

[@gosiazachoszcz1367]

A family is never intact if a child falls in addiction, there is either a genetic factor or an psychological factor or both.

[@KK-dc3qk]

Cried the whole video, thank you for putting this out there 💯

[@lambchop6278]

Sorry, but: what does the '100' mean? I keep seeing it.

[@KK-dc3qk]

@@lambchop6278 100%

[@raymondrobbins9495]

This was hard to watch. I lost my brother to a overdose and i continued to use after the passing of him. I finally got on suboxone and have transitioned to the sublocade shot. If you struggle like i did you can detox and be put on suboxone and then move on to sublocade. I am in a very good place now. Its not switching addictions i am happy there are medications that you cant abuse like the sublocade shot.

[@lisaperry5999]

Congratulations Raymond I transitioned to Subs as well. I got my fentanyl and oxys from my Dr.

[@raymondrobbins9495]

@@lisaperry5999 Good job I have made another transition from sub strips to the once monthly shot. I got it 1.5 weeks ago its supposed to last 30 days. there are no highs and lows like taking the daily strip. It does takes a few days to get used to not taking a daily medication but so worth is and it is covered by insurance and Medicaid. I see all these videos about the problem but hardly anyone talks about the solutions like Subs strips or shot or even methadone.

[@andreasimon2752]

Relapsed after 5 yrs on sub Now going on a year on fet and it sucks cuz it stays in ur fat tissue for days so unless u want precipitated withdrawal you can't take sub I'm at a loss at what to do I HATE THIS SO MUCH I will get my life back I will

[@raymondrobbins9495]

@@andreasimon2752 I know what you are saying. I have had different relapses at different times. And every time i went from heroin to subs i was fine. But when i went from fent to subs i get the Precipitated Withdraw and that is worse. I get really really sick for days. Then the sub finally starts to work. If you can get off the fent and start the subs after 7 days you can go to the shot and imo it works alot better then taking a daily medicine.

[@sheenaatchley8168]

Andrea I’m praying for you. Talk to Jesus. Ask Him to show you what to do. He will help you if you just reach out to Him. I was where you are once, and He saved me❤️

[@Jchamp443]

My heart goes out the the families of North Carolina, this is proof that it has no boundaries …I’m from DC where fentanyl has run rampant and caused so much pain And death , we have to find a way to stop this !!!

[@Jameswilliam1982]

That's brutal, 2 sons lost.. Prayers to the family

[@JP-wx6uh]

The Opioid money didn't hurt drug companies. They have endless money supply. It wasn't and still isn't enough to simply fine them and try to use the money to fix the problem. The people who were in charge at the time need to go to prison and the companies involved need to be shut down completely.

[@Marisa-kq7gk]

that part

[@ksmith2852]

I don't care anymore. People think they are experts and smarter than anyone else. So, it's a natural outcome; let it run its course. The parents always act horrified after their child OD and rewrite history. I speak from personal experience with my wacko sister and my nephew who killed himself (sanitized by family as an accidental OD). If any parent reading this really wants to prevent their child killing themselves: Something in your family dynamics was toxic. If by some Miracle your child enters a treatment program..Do not bring him back into your 'mamas boy' environment. Send them to a person outside of your family. Not in your town. Not in your streets. Like it or not it happened on your watch. My nephew got clean after 6 weeks in a facility in Arizona. What did they do? Put him right back in the same house, bedroom, city where he became addicted, did home invasions to buy drugs. Of course he went back to drugs. He never had a chance.

[@5thdimension625]

This is always a common unfortunate pattern I’ve observed. We’d treat a patient and stabilize them in hospital only to have them return them to their dysfunctional codependent environment. It’s definitely a set up. Part of the problem is it’s a FAMILY problem and parents minimize their role as well as their child’s patterns within the family.

[@lisaperry5999]

K Smith very good insight and advice

[@alyciamarie4163]

@@5thdimension625 very very true. What people do not realize is the addictions can be work, food, sex, gambling… not just drugs.

[@mariannewright5478]

😢 such a powerful documentary 🙏🏻 thank you all involved

[@Allegedly..Angela]

Wow those 2 ladies ARE powerful indeed. How touching. Im left amazed that they took this tragedy somewhere few could probably go.. just wow

[@merk.9285]

Going to jail also lead me to heroin by meeting a guy a few years older than me that was already hooked on shooting it. while at the time I was only addicted to opioid pills like roxy 30s (when they were real) and norco. I got out and met up with the dude and thats when I tried heroin for the first time, the second time I tried it weeks later, I shot it. and never went back. Only sniffed it the first time trying it. Now im 1 year clean after struggling with heroin off and on since 2016 till 2022 March.

[@clay1569]

Congratulations on your sobriety. One day at a time

[@supermodelatlanta1354]

Stay sober baby!

[@ispyfantasybw1567]

Big pharmaceutical companies did this

[@melindahall5062]

No, illegal drug manufacture and dealers are to blame. Big Pharma May have had a part 30 years ago with providing false info to prescribing Docs but that’s old news. In fact, I’m having surgery to remove my hip bone next week and they are so stingy with appropriate pain meds I worry about suffering more pain than I have to. That’s the reality of legal pain relief these days.

[@user-uj8sq1xh1b]

Lord help US to do our part 2 help: every family in South WV has been impacted 😭❤ GOD bless you and your family 🙏🙏🙏

[@cameemichelle5619]

This video needs to be shown in drug education classes in all schools early.

[@rachellepage5272]

thank you for this post, my son was 14 and took a fentanyle pill and it took his life. thank you for sharing, i really hope we can raise awareness

[@loversofanimal]

😢 gosh, so young. Condolences

[@akc1739]

Children, teens, young adults, and grown folk with emotional wounds seek comfort - a listening ear, empathy, love. When they don’t get it, they (we) self-medicate and surround ourselves with other wounded people who understand our pain. Like Keith Stone said, it’s a new world, a new day. My personal drug use as a teen didn’t kill me back in the 80’s. It likely would today. School staff and all families need to stop attacking each other and provide a unified, loving environment for kids to talk out their experiences in this age…they are confused, anxious, depressed - or have close friends who are. This former NC teacher knows how alone they feel and how school communities/families are failing them.

[@brettwilson7680]

Very true. Once I realized the opiates took away not only my physical but my depression and emotional pain as well, I was hooked. It took me years of therapy to unravel the mess i made.

[@rogerboswell5483]

My girlfriend died from fentanyl. She had a bad childhood She was a user when we met i never did that stuff i don't even drink alcohol. I miss her more each passing day.. I knew her only 20 months..

[@MrScandinavio]

This made me cry. Love from Australia.

[@manichairdo9265]

This fabulous video voices the hope of so many. The prevention and recovery action is incredible. Education and everything possible being done to protect people from this assault on precious lives.