A Mother's Journey Through Opioid Addiction: Paula Becker's Story
But you can control how you show up with that person and you can always see the person in that person and not allow their addiction to define them.
Picture the heartbreak of watching your child struggle with addiction. In this deeply moving episode of 'Hopestream', host Brenda Zane sits down with Paula Becker, the author of 'A House on Stilts'. Paula opens up about her emotional journey as a mother to Hunter, who battled opioid addiction before his untimely death in a tragic accident unrelated to drugs.
This episode isn't just about Hunter's story; it's also about Paula's resilience and the strength it takes to write such a personal memoir. Paula shares the painful yet cathartic process of writing her book, filled with raw memories and tough moments. She discusses why she chose to publish it and how she navigated the fine line between helping and enabling her son.
You'll hear about the impact Hunter's addiction had on his siblings and how the family coped during those tumultuous years. One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of compassion—for yourself and for others going through similar struggles. Paula reflects on what she might have done differently and offers heartfelt advice to parents in the same boat. She also emphasizes the need for self-care and finding community support to get through these challenging times.
If you know someone dealing with a child's addiction, this episode is a must-listen. Paula's story is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and hope, offering guidance and inspiration to those facing similar battles.