E135 - Aired 08-14-25 - Dylan FernandesE135 - Aired 08-14-25 - Dylan Fernandes
Courage to Hope
Tony Lagreca and Dylan Fernandes discuss the opioid crisis and legislative solutions for chronic pain management on Courage to Hope. Tune in for inspiring insights.
44:25•16 Aug 2025
Courage to Hope: Fighting Opioid Stigma
Episode Overview
- Exploring the impact of the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts.
- Introducing bill S.863 for non-opioid pain management options.
- Discussing community resilience and recovery services.
- Highlighting political advocacy for public health policies.
- Sharing real stories of personal transformation and hope.
“At the end of the day, I think it's the experience, getting things done for people, passing many pieces of legislation that have had a positive impact in their lives and in the district that is the most important part.”
In this episode of Courage to Hope, Tony Lagreca invites State Senator Dylan Fernandes to discuss the pressing issue of opioid addiction and the legislative efforts to address it in Massachusetts. Tony, who began this journey following the tragic loss of his son to opioids, shares his passion for changing the stigma surrounding substance abuse and highlights the importance of recovery services.
Dylan Fernandes, known for his proactive approach, talks about his bill S.863, which aims to provide non-opioid options for managing chronic pain. This legislation comes from a personal place for Dylan, who witnessed the devastating effects of opioid addiction among his peers during his formative years. Dylan explains that the bill seeks to offer alternatives to opioids for chronic pain management, thus reducing the risk of addiction.
He shares a poignant story about a former lacrosse teammate who succumbed to opioid overdose, leaving behind a grieving family. This personal loss underscores the urgency of finding solutions and advocating for change. Tony and Dylan also touch upon the broader societal impacts, discussing the mental health legislation and infrastructure projects aimed at creating a more supportive environment.
The conversation shifts to the political landscape, where Dylan recounts his experience working on Maura Healey's campaign for Attorney General, emphasizing the importance of political advocacy in tackling opioid abuse. The episode closes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to support the bill and contribute to the ongoing fight against opioid addiction. Tony and Dylan express gratitude for the progress Massachusetts has made and urge continued efforts to ensure settlement funds are used effectively.
Overall, this episode serves as a testament to the power of community resilience and legislative action in combating the opioid crisis. Tony's heartfelt approach and Dylan's legislative insights inspire listeners to find courage and hope amidst challenging times.
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