FENTANYL KILLS: Spencer Newsom's Story - episode 131

A mother, Laura Collanton, shares her story of losing her 20-year-year-old son, Spencer Newsom, to illicit fentanyl in this documentary about the dangers of illegal drugs. To use this presentation at high schools or other educational applications, contact Texas Pictures through our website at www.texas-pictures.com.
Naloxone, the active ingredient in 4mg Narcan and higher dose 8mg Kloxxado, along with many generic versions, can reverse an opioid overdose if administered quickly enough. Some areas have Naloxone available for free. Google it.
In the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat to connect with a caring counselor.
Learn more about the dangers of illicit fentanyl at:
DEA - www.dea.gov/fentanylawareness
CDC - www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fent...
Fentanyl Fathers - fentanylfathers.org/
Texas Health and Human Services - www.hhs.texas.gov/services/me...

[@camrinolson1518]

Laura was my friend. My boys played baseball with her boys. I sat ata table with Spencer at her wedding. Absolutely devastating. One thing I know without a doubt was what a wonderful mother she was and how hard she fought for him. These tragedies must stop! It does not surprise me at all that she’s become such an accomplished advocate and spokesperson. ❤️

[@tracypatrick2587]

Hearing her say " Spencer didn't want to die that day . " Such a heartbreaking truth .

[@jeeperp3926]

Yet, Spencer had to know that his choice had a very high likelihood of killing him. Choices have consequences.

[@KyongG1970]

We too will remember Spencer’s name because of you. Thank you so much for sharing his story.

[@chocolatesouljah]

❤

[@JayJay32186]

What an amazing mother! When she said that she wanted to walk in grief with other parents… I don’t have words. What an amazing gift to be there for other parents and essentially hand them a road map as to how to navigate the unimaginable. And then when she said he didn’t get to save lives being a fire fighter or an EMT, I lost it. His story will save lives. His legacy is important. Thank you for sharing Spencer with this audience. I am so sorry for your loss.

[@TheIddieMorris]

No that’s not what I meant. Just making an observation from my 22 years in healthcare. It seems Inderal, Klonopin, Ativan had less issues. People can make their own choices. I know I would stay away from Xanax. And since my son, husband, and I are officially diagnosed with ADHD, that’s not a drug we would not consider. So having ADHD and being in healthcare, that is my opinion. Have a good day.

[@jillmiller1705]

Revelation 18:23 By pharmakia all nations are deceived

[@tracylockett-k7e]

My son did not die of fentanyl poisoning, but he was 19 and sounded so much like your son, independent, strong minded, talented, and so full of life ahead of him I love hearing your story. My son died in an accident, but nobody understands that it is a lifelong pain, I have three other children, and we mix joy and grief in almost every occasion. Have strength that you will see him again, eternity is real, it’s a promise from God that I truly believe. Hugs to you, mama, be strong, he’s a beautiful child

[@MickBollocks]

Drugs ruined my life, i say to any young kids who are thinking of taking drugs to stay well clear..I’m 55 years old now and have had a miserable life through drugs so please stay well clear..❤

[@davide.b8027]

I'm 45 and saying the same thing.

[@Ambassador055]

Congrats making it to 55 and helping others.

[@Karenflowers123]

Feel your pain! I lost my beautiful daughter too! She left so quickly! My son she was living with went out and came back and she was already gone. Fentanyl is so horrible. I am so proud you worked on getting support groups! It's only what helped me and still does! My prayers for you! 💖🙏🏼💖 Your son was and is still beautiful ❤️

[@lauranewsomcollanton7461]

I am so sorry to hear about your beautiful boy as well. There are too many of us and the loss is profound.

[@christycamful]

Beautiful mother of a beautiful son.

[@raulespinoza9987]

I also lost a friend to fentanyl. One day he was happy enjoying life and spending time with his friends. The next day he's gone. It was all because one of his neighbors invited him and one of his friends to smoke a joint. So my friend and his friend thought they were going to be smoking weed. They all went to my friends apartment in downtown L.A. Well the weed his friend brought was laced with fentanyl and it killed all 3 of them instantly. Thank you for sharing your story about your son Spencer. He will never be forgotten.

[@lauranewsomcollanton7461]

I have heard this happening. Nothing is safe anymore. So very sorry for the loss of your precious friend.

[@moepee85]

Bro you scared me. Was thinking about starting to smoke again .

[@terrikopke3496]

I understand your pain. I lost my only child when he was 20 Not from drugs, but a freeway accident. A loss is just devastating. What I do know is that we get through it, but we never get over it. I am glad you have other children to nurture and care for. So very sorry for your loss.

[@lauranewsomcollanton7461]

Mom to mom, I am deeply saddened for the loss of your only child. I hope you have found some fellow bereaved mamas who can support you. It is a gift for me to have met others who understand.

[@teresawilson3893]

Your loss is different!

[@melmack2003]

You are doing a beautiful job of sharing Spencer's legacy., He gave you the gift of Joy....for most of your presentation, I could hardly wipe the smile off my face. Bless you, dear Lady...Spencer was lucky to have you as his Mom.....and you were lucky to have him.

[@user-rh8iy3dw6o]

Upon listening to this lovely mother's testimony and how she became involved as a grief counselor, I did an online search and found one of the best grief sites and joined the waiting list...it's that busy. God bless that dear lady. I'm glad I was never a mother who would have to experience the greatest loss ever.

[@aliciaohara8794]

You're so strong to continue to share his story in order to save lives. ❤

[@katherinetreiman9480]

I’m so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son. Thank you for sharing his story and educating others.

[@trulyblessedby3]

I've watched nearly episode, afraid I may lose my child who is an addict. Your loss has touched my heart in a way no other has. I pray for you, I pray you continue to help others however you can. Thank you for sharing with me personally, you have helped me, and more importantly my child! Bless you!

[@Bookwitherin]

So sorry you’re going through such a difficult time. 😢 Just know that you have an entire army here to help support and comfort when the love is needed. ❤

[@yvonnebannon7623]

What a beautiful young man he was….so incredibly sad. I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your precious boy. Thank you for sharing him and his story. I pray that his gorgeous siblings have found peace and healing some how. 🙏🏻🤍🕊 What an a great mom she is…I would love to give her a hug. ❤

[@melissahedges2031]

Rest IN Peace Spencer! ❤ So tragic and heartbreaking! Thanks mom for sharing your experience! XO 🙏

[@leesashriber5097]

Such a handsome young man. He sounds like a wonderful soul. Mom, you are so strong and brave. My prayers and love to you and your family. 🕊️❤️🙏

[@natrose4721]

Lady, you have been given a gift for life… twice over! How bountiful are you and yours!!! Saving lives!!!

[@kalwilson7670]

#facts

[@patricias5122]

what a kind woman.

[@marymiles9922]

I do know your pain. I'm so sorry mama. 💔 Thank you telling his story to save lives and help others.🙏

[@patriciapearl2529]

The pain in this mothers eyes just breaks my heart, I am deeply sorry for your loss🥲

[@PeaceJourney...]

He is saving lives as an example of how mindlessly easy it is to receive tainted pills and other drugs in the black market. All illegal drugs are being routinely laced with this poison. And just one pill can kill😢

[@stevemorris6790]

So they should take pills without prescribed by doctors..

[@JaxonSmithers]

That and Xylazine which can be worse because narcan doesn’t work. Sad 😞

[@marycreaney173]

Mum thank you for sharing your story about your son Spencer. You are so very brave and I hope others get help and hope from your sharing your experience of loss. Take care and continue the great work on raising awareness.

[@jewlzn7130]

Sending you virtual hugs. What a traumatic loss. How beautiful of you to turn these ashes into beauty!!! God bless you

[@kendrahansen1175]

When Ms. Collanton said, "Can I hold your hand?", that was so sweet, so powerful and so sad.

[@millenniumtowerskelton5143]

Hey Mama, I am so sorry for your and the family’s loss of Spencer. I watch all of Texas Pictures documentaries of families that have lost a loved one. Your voice helps others Moms. Please know that. My daughter went to a “Event” in Orlando. It is huge. She admitted to me she did ecstasy. I was devastated but relieved she told me. She is 30 years old. I showed her your sons video and others. I really think it worked. RIP Spencer. You are saving lives. 🙏🏻❤️🇺🇸. One Pill Can Kill

[@carlitasway2477]

I’m so sorry for the loss of your precious Spencer .. sending you love, peace and healing ❤

[@hollyharris1874]

This is HORRIBLE! What a tragic loss. Spencer was so handsome and on his way to great things! I'm so sorry Laura, Dad, siblings, girlfriend, and friends. Tears just rivers of them

[@C_W98]

I wish I could reach through my screen and give you a hug. Thank you for sharing your story about your sweet son.

[@ScottCampbell-wy4ie]

Thank you Laura for sharing Spencer's story with us. It is so tragic but beautiful and loving at the same time.

[@krissypeters1517]

Beyond heartbreaking … Rest in paradise, Spencer - Mom you are a beautiful person inside and out … thank you for sharing your story, teaching us and saving lives ❤

[@cosmosprincess20]

I’m so sorry. He was a sweet young man

[@branevans3705]

Wow, Mama, you are an amazing and passionate educator and advocate. My heart was beating fast as you recounted that moment you discovered your son had passed. ❤❤

[@kristopherbearden590]

What an amazing mother and woman you are. I’m sorry for your loss and the pain you’ve experienced and continue to endure. Keep up the good work. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. God bless you and your family.

[@georgia1191]

Your son lives through you so strongly and beautifully! God bless you

[@Zhana808]

Thank you so much for sharing Spencer’s story with us. He would be so proud of you for the amazing work you’ve done to bring awareness to this tragic and heartbreaking epidemic. Sending sincere condolences and prayers for comfort, healing and strength. RIL Spencer 🙏🏼❤️🕊️

[@bethlapenna.creativearts]

What a tremendous loss you and your family feel after losing Spencer to fentanyl. I think it’s wonderful that you discovered David Kessler and his Tender Hearts program. David’s experience losing his son adds to all the wisdom that he brings to the world. And the fact that you have trained to be a grief educator is going to make a real difference to those who have also lost a child to this tragic epidemic. May God’s peace be with you and all the lives that you touch today and into the future.❤

[@feemcl62]

I don’t think you could have been a better mum. Deeply sorry for the loss of your son

[@Globelle]

I don't think I have ever been able to relate to somebody so much. Thank you for sharing your story and I have lost my stepson although it'll be 5 years July 22nd of this year and he was 19. Now my son is 23 and at risk in sounds a lot like yours and my life. I have already prayed for you and I will pray for you more. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss of your beautiful son

[@Blackcatt704]

You’re an amazing mother and trust and believe, Spencer is with you always and so proud of you. I’m so sorry for your families loss. You will save lives!! God bless you all🙏🏾😇

[@davide.b8027]

Amazing mother. Amazing woman. Such a positive energy in this world. ❤

[@zakimtshali8105]

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful son’s story, he sounds like such an amazing young man. I am so sorry for your loss

[@lanag492]

May God give you strength through your journey..a great mother you are

[@cherylmusgrove7]

I’m so very sorry. You are helping so many, they are all so blessed to have you. ❤️🌸

[@chanel58style70]

When she mentioned that even though Spencer did not become an EMT or a Firefighter, instead she feels that he is now working through her to deliver the message to others about the dangers of Fentanyl. And in that way he’s working to save lives. I have not lost a child, and I pray to God that I never do. It’s a sad fact that she’s right when she says that no parent can know the heartache of losing a child until they experience it. 🦋

[@Notguilty1]

Spencer’s story is the same as mine. ADHD kid and all. I pray you never blame yourself for his death in any way. No one could have stopped me from experimenting with drugs at that age. I had no idea what I was doing and neither did Spencer. My heart breaks for you!

[@doughnutzz]

I really have to hand it to this mom for stepping up to help others after this tragedy involving her son Spencer. I get emotional just hearing about the support out there and the ways she is able to step in and help. I know that if I lost a child, or a close loved one for that matter, I would absolutely benefit from this kind of support. Thank you to this mother and my heart breaks for you for the grief you have suffered.

[@shiningstar5919]

What an amazing mom. God bless you for sharing your heart with those parent's who deeply need you. You've taken over his mission of helping others. Bravo, he is so proud!

[@TheIddieMorris]

A lot of these stories start with children with ADHD. My best friend who’s a psychologist says that people need to take ADHD as seriously as we do schizophrenia. Xanax is highly, highly addictive. It’s not appropriate for children. It’s not even good for adults.

[@_HolyHell_]

Sadly, there's still a lot of stigma and misunderstanding around ADHD, and I don't see that getting better any time soon. Especially with social media trying to make mental illness a trendy thing to post TikToks about, there's a significant lack of understanding of the disorder and how it impacts people's lives. A lot of people just think it means you have a short attention span but it's sooo much more than that, it's tough, and it's very easy to fall into drugs as a result. Thankfully I am 7 years clean now, but I genuinely credit proper ADHD treatment for saving my life and I wish more people could get the help they need so they don't end up another story on this channel.

[@moswiney2737]

You are correct, Xanax is highly addictive and should be prescribed in a limited basis. This is how my son escalated into heroin. He took more and more increasingly to where he had no common sense. He passed from a fentanyl overdose 7/4/18. There are so many of us suffering and yet it continues day after day. Thank God for mothers like this who tell,their story to warn people it is out there and your kids are sitting ducks. No matter if your kid is well loved, has tons of friends or have wonderful parents

[@Stephanie-007]

I noticed that as well. So very sad.

[@phyllisarrington7436]

@TheIddieMorris : I was prescribed Xanax and called my doctor to get a different medication. I was at work. Picked up the phone and dialed the number using my electric calculator. That's how messed up Xanax made me.

[@principecaprincipeca2243]

Yes, I agree with the ADHD part, because I know closely people that have it. But all of them have got their life under control by medication. But I really lost you with that Xanax comment. Dying from fentanyl is better than using Xanax under control when you need it?? Really? You know people are driven to self medication when they don't get the treatment they need? It's killing them. Even being on Xanax under control is better than dying of fentanyl tryin to get something to ease your suffering. You really didn't listen to this mother, did you. And if you did, you sure didn't understand.

[@kriskadobermiller9293]

Wow! Such an amazing Mom! I want to join you! I lost my only daughter June 3, 2024! The heartache is never ending! The grief is all consuming!! And what do I do with all my anger!! I would love to meet you! Prayers for you and your family!❤️💔❤️❤️💔

[@michaelpaine8884]

The Mom is heartbroken. Please focus on your other children. Help guide as best you can. Sending joyful energy.

[@PenM.-cg3xw]

Thank you so much for your transparency. Your love for your son exudes through your story. Praying for your strength through this difficult journey.

[@nunyabusiness7927]

These stories never get easier to hear. It's always sad and tragic.

[@YenTramThanhGiang]

This is what happens when the bar gets lowered. In ten years our healthcare system will be unrecognizable with people more afraid to go to the hospital than to simply ride out their illness or injury.It's time to demand the government to make reforms. The medical system needs reforming.

[@bettygunz4990]

I lost my Dad and brother to suicide, which in itself is horrible, but I can’t even imagine what you’re life is like. My heart breaks for you. Please keep your faith! I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@mistyhatter5360]

I cannot even begin to imagine the grief any mother feels to losing a child. However, I do know God and I do know he will allow things of our own free will and he also has his own plan which we may not always understand. When she said it was a gift to walk alongside other parents in their grief it just lets me know that God convicts us and tries to direct us. We have to be obedient in his messages and have faith. It could very well be our our purpose and the very way to lead someone else to his salvation. It has been written in the Bible about so many that meet our Lord and Savior during our darkest times. This mother is truly inspirational. May she continue to heal by helping other grieving mothers in keeping her son's legacy and memories alive.

[@3mexhuas]

You are a wonderful mother. I'm so sorry for the loss of your son.

[@Zedman3333]

I have 2 boys 14/16 , them growing these days up just terrifies me. The smallest decision can make a maximum impact. Devastating for all.

[@kcmc3615]

So glad I found this channel. You guys do an excellent job.

[@slashp.279]

Thank you for sharing your story beautiful mom! 🥹 this is heartbreaking 💔 😢

[@bridgethockney2303]

Thank you for telling us Spencer's story. He was lucky to have you as his mother. My heart breaks for you. ❤

[@charlottehall5191]

Such a handsome young man. So sorry for your loss 😢

[@rachaelwhitehead8331]

Omg I cried what a mother how did she. Survive this I have a 17 year old boy constantly worried can't imagine the pain love to this family. X

[@Jeanie__Bottle]

My heart is with you and the family 🙏🏻💙🙏🏻

[@kalwilson7670]

This is an amazing mother!!!! I've brought so much pain to my own family through my addiction. Seeing this woman's pain and grief is inspiration!! God has given this heartbroken woman a life mission!!! Mom, you may never read my comment, just know you've left a mark on my heart and spirit

[@lauranewsomcollanton7461]

I read them all, thank you for your comment. I hope you continue to fight for sobriety and a healthy life.

[@GingerBeardedDude]

My heart is shattered listening to Spencer's story. Wishing this beautiful family so much love and healing.

[@JoyKloester]

I am so saddened for your loss of your beautiful son.

[@lauraoconnell371]

I am so very sorry. Thank you for sharing Spencer’s story to help others.

[@marciaturley2850]

So sad. Sending you so much love.

[@darleneyoung8737]

We lost our youngest son to this awful drug. It was a year ago last Saturday the 27th. Been a hard year for us. Forever broken 💔😭

[@Michelmichel1984]

Thank you for sharing this story. I hope it will prevent so many other youngsters to die from this. You are a powerful woman, I wish you all the strength ❤

[@Whippy99]

I’m so very sorry for your loss. Covid lockdown was unimaginably difficult for so many people. Spencer’s legacy will help others in their time of need. I wish you peace, good health and a long life. ❤

[@albertobaudino1963]

If I think he has this mother and he has the emptiness, an immense spit of pain for a young man full of strength, heart, soul, energy that is extinguished!! There are no words, only an immense silence in which to be able to go on!! In every young man who dies, the opportunity for the world to be evolved, a better human is extinguished ❤

[@maxmustermensch704]

I am sorry for your loss Ma'am. Very sorry. Your memories of Spencer tell he was a very interesting, intelligent, entertraining man who tried a lot and made things others couldnt do.

[@ntandosekay]

Spencer is blessed beyond measure for a mother like you. We are blessed by your bravery in sharing your journey with us❤🌹

[@celiakoettchengang5151]

Hearing again about what this covid measures mainly lockdown did to this young generation is super tragic. Of course it was needed but still the effects are dramatic

[@TH-xx9cn]

Sorry for your loss. Sad to hear. Thx for sharing.

[@caryrogers9676]

So heartbreaking…. Many people choose drug use, and gradually slip into addiction. This is such a sad story of very unfortunate events. 😢💔 No parents should have to go through what this poor mom had to deal with.

[@michellemckinneybarnett7230]

I have such respect for you and your journey since losing your precious son. I will remember Spencer because of you and your story. Sending love and light. ❤

[@s.r.t.5123]

Such a beautiful family. Very sorry for your loss and the loss of so many families affected by this.

[@makesmewonder6497]

Amazing woman to help other mothers in their grief. Spencer does live on through her good works.❤❤

[@dianekrenz6789]

You are amazing! Thanks for sharing Spencer's story with the world.

[@alanaUK]

What an immense strength and deeply unfortunate. Thank you for sharing and bringing awareness ❤

[@lynndipasquale3973]

As I’m watching you tell your story I’m in awe your an amazing strong woman!!!

[@garyh5541]

RIP Spencer 🙏🙏🙏 Prayers for all who love you!🙏 Marvellous Mum!

[@marydiaz6205]

My most sincere condolences! What a loss of a brilliant loving young man❤❤❤❤❤

[@DD-ry5kj]

Thank you for sharing Spencer's story. You are incredibly strong and are helping people by sharing this experience.

[@Luke22022]

Thank you for your meaningful work in Spencer's memory. I am sorry for your pain. May god bless you and your beautiful family.

[@maxinepreston7601]

I'm so so for the loss of Spencer. He is helping people through his mom. Condolences to you.🇬🇧

[@llt-bud15]

So heartbreaking, RIP Spencer! Mama keep educating others, you’re making a difference and that makes a honorable and selfless!❤

[@zuur303]

Beautiful portrait of Spencer and his mom. Seems there wasn't much Laura could've done. Which is a warning in itself.

[@donnaw2868]

I'm so sorry to this beautiful family for this great loss. When the mom talks about the girlfriend who is the nurse now, it is especially sad. Spencer and the nurse could have been married with a family if not for this senseless tragedy. One happy part of the story is how Spencer was not drugged with ADHD meds in his early life. Hugs to your family.

[@kathymorris4553]

You’re an amazing mom and person. I wish I could talk with you.

[@lynndipasquale3973]

I’m so so sorry your son sounds like a wonderful young man my heart breaks for you

[@prm1701]

What a gracious and articulate mother, who speaks so passionately about her son. Bless her and him. Really sad story.

[@MaresaMonsour]

God bless you and the wonderful work you are doing! Spencer and your family will be in my prayers.

[@jasmine0354]

So tragic ! 💔

[@user-xo2od1cd1j]

Another sad, sad story about a young adult thinking they're fine with a single pill and falling asleep forever. He was so handsome and that picture of him and his girlfriend is so beautiful, they fit wonderfully together and I imagine she was devestated. You told his story iin a lovely way and I'm sure by helping parents and kids to know the danger of "one pill" you are saving lives.

[@lifewithdeedee3392]

😔😔😔😭😭😭😭 my God. She said every where i go, i look for him in other people. My God 😭😭😭😭