Episode 021 - Who's Responsible?

Episode 021 - Who's Responsible?

Imagine the gut-wrenching pain of losing a child to drugs. Velvet Aguirre knows this all too well. In this deeply moving episode of Recovery Road, Merrit Hartblay sits down with Velvet to share the tragic story of her son Ivan's death. Velvet's journey is not just one of immense grief but also of relentless advocacy, as she questions the role universities play in ensuring student safety.

Ivan's death at Arizona State University (ASU) and the fraternity he was part of raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability and the urgent need for better drug education on campuses. Velvet's story is a call to action for parents everywhere. She emphasizes the importance of educating children about the dangers of drugs, particularly those laced with fentanyl. It's not just about warning college students; it's about having open, honest conversations at home long before they leave for university.

Velvet's mission is clear: families must stand together, spread awareness, and advocate for change to prevent such tragedies from happening to others. Throughout the episode, Velvet shares her experiences and the collective grief of other parents who have lost a child to drugs. Her message is powerful and urgent—parents need to be proactive and vigilant. Merrit Hartblay supports this mission by bringing together experts from the mental health, substance abuse, wellness, and self-care communities to discuss these pressing issues.

This episode is not just a story of loss but also a beacon of hope and a call for collective action. Join Merrit and Velvet as they explore the harsh realities of drug abuse and the crucial role families and universities must play in safeguarding our children.