For three decades, singer Melissa Etheridge made news for her powerful songs, multiple Grammy nominations, and influence on the world of rock music. Her albums and singles have sold millions of copies, and tickets to the Kansas singer’s concerts sell fast. This past May, Etheridge’s name made news when her son Beckett died of an opioid overdose.
Beckett, the son of Etheridge and her former partner, Julie Cypher, was just 21 years old. Etheridge knew her son was struggling with opioid addiction, but, like so many other parents, she also knew the power of motherhood alone could not save him. People dealing with addiction must be willing to face uncomfortable facts about how their lives have spun out of control and commit to achieving a life of sobriety. Nobody else can make this commitment for them.
Taking Action to Help Others
In an appearance on Today with Hoda and Jenna earlier this year, Etheridge said, “I’m not alone in this nation of families who have lost loved ones to opioid addiction.” Etheridge understands the loss so many people in this country have already experienced. Looking for a way to channel her grief, Etheridge started The Etheridge Foundation to support research into the causes and effects of opioid addiction.
The Etheridge Foundation states that they “strive to partner with and support organizations who delve into new ways of understanding and treating underlying mental health issues in conjunction with drug addiction.” The foundation raises money to help achieve their goals and help fuel a conversation about how to address the causes of opioid addiction. They also hope to overhaul the approach to treatment for a crisis that has swelled in the United States over the past several years.
Being rich and famous does not protect a person from being affected by opioid addiction. Singer Melissa Etheridge lost her son to an overdose earlier this year, prompting her to start a foundation to find answers to addiction and mental health issues. Valiant Living offers detox, outpatient, inpatient, and recovery housing to help you or your loved one navigate recovery and emerge ready to live life as a new person. Our men-only programs in the Denver area offer private and semi-private rooms in a small facility designed to promote individual attention and assistance with recovery. Call us now for more information! (303) 952-5035
