Losing a Child, Saving Others: One Mother’s Story
Author: Dear Media
August 4, 2025
Duration: 39:16
In today’s episode, Dominique sits down with journalist and grief educator Angela Kennecke, who lost her 21-year-old daughter, Emily, to fentanyl poisoning just days before she and her family were set to hold an intervention.
Angela shares the raw, emotional story of Emily’s life, her struggle with substance use, and the painful reality facing today’s youth and their families. What began as a personal tragedy has since become Angela’s mission. Through her nonprofit, Emily’s Hope, she’s helping parents, kids, and communities understand the deadly risks of fentanyl and the power of prevention through education and open conversation.
Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or simply someone who wants to be part of the solution, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode, Dominique and Angela discuss:Emily’s story: who she was, what she loved, and how her struggle beganWhat parents must understand about today’s drug landscapeWhy early, honest conversations with kids matter more than everThe pain and complexity of grief, and how Angela found healing through writingWhy addiction is misunderstood, and how we can reduce shame and blameWhat to do if you think your child is struggling, and where to start getting helpHow culture, social media, and stress are contributing to today’s crisis
For more on Angela:Listen to her podcast Grieving Out Loud here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grieving-out-loud-a-mother-coping-with-loss-in/id1459587875 Learn more about her nonprofit, Emily’s Hope: https://emilyshope.charity/
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Produced by Dear Media.
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