From ABC News to Advocacy: A Father's Journey
Episode Overview
Jeffrey Veatch shares his son's story of addiction and overdose. The Justin Veatch Fund supports aspiring musicians with scholarships. Music as a tool for healing and community connection. The importance of sharing real stories in recovery. Jeffrey's advocacy journey after personal tragedy.
It's about that one guy. The one person that gets it right, and then we can say, well done, good and faithful servant.
In this poignant episode of Buddha Time podcast, hosts Tommy Buddha and Monty engage in a moving conversation with Jeffrey Veatch, a retired news writer and producer from ABC News Radio. Jeffrey shares the heartbreaking story of his son Justin, who tragically passed away from a drug overdose in 2008, just as he was about to start his senior year at Yorktown High School.
Justin was a talented young musician with a deep love for the piano, and he left behind an album, Whispering Spirits, which showcases his musical abilities. Jeffrey speaks about the profound impact of Justin's death on his life, pushing him to become an advocate for addiction recovery and support through the Justin Veatch Fund. This fund offers scholarships to aspiring musicians, helping them pursue their dreams while honoring Justin's legacy.
The conversation delves into the challenges of addiction, the healing power of music, and the critical need for community support in tackling the drug crisis. Jeffrey discusses his podcast, The Drug Crisis Faces Behind the Struggle, where he interviews individuals who have been affected by addiction, sharing their stories to inspire change. Throughout the episode, Jeffrey's journey from personal tragedy to advocacy serves as a beacon of hope.
He emphasizes the importance of real stories in the recovery process, and how initiatives like the Justin Veatch Fund can provide much-needed encouragement and resources for young talents. The hosts, Tommy and Monty, express their gratitude to Jeffrey for sharing his story and Justin's music, acknowledging the pain he has endured and the positive impact he continues to make.
As the episode closes, the sentiment is one of hope and determination, encouraging listeners to find light and strength in their own struggles and to support one another in the journey towards healing.