Leah Shepherd: Leading Change with Victoria's Voice
Episode Overview
Victoria's Voice Foundation has impacted over one million individuals through education. Vaping is not a safe alternative; many products are laced with harmful substances. Parental vigilance is crucial in recognising behavioural changes in children. Angel Army provides support and advocacy opportunities for bereaved parents. Community action and awareness are key in combating addiction.
"I'd rather have my child mad at me than dead all day long."
Get ready to be moved by the impactful work of Leah Shepherd, the Executive Director of Victoria's Voice Foundation, as she takes the spotlight in this episode. Leah's mission is crystal clear: saving lives through drug-prevention education and overdose awareness. Under her leadership, Victoria's Voice has reached over a million students, families, and community members across the nation. If you're wondering what it takes to tackle the substance-use crisis head-on, Leah's relentless efforts offer a glimpse into the possibilities.
Leah shares the inspiring journey of Victoria's Voice Foundation, born out of tragedy when Jackie and David Siegel lost their daughter, Victoria, to an accidental drug overdose. The foundation's initiatives, like National Naloxone Awareness Day, aim to expand access to life-saving overdose reversal medication. Leah highlights the importance of educating young minds, with speaker Michael Deleon leading school assemblies to connect with kids on the dangers of vaping and drug use.
The episode doesn't shy away from addressing tough topics like the misconception of vaping as a safe alternative to smoking. Leah emphasises that there's no such thing as a 'safe vape', with many products laced with harmful substances. The foundation's new partnership with Fentanyl Fathers and the creation of Angel Army offer bereaved parents a platform to share their stories and advocate for change.
Through poignant anecdotes and practical advice, Leah underscores the importance of parental vigilance in recognising behavioural changes in children. This episode is a testament to the power of community action and awareness in combating addiction. What steps can we take today to protect future generations from the grip of addiction? If you're looking for inspiration and guidance in the fight against addiction, this episode offers plenty to ponder.