of our time, and the battle against it is up to each one of us. Although it may seem hopeless, every single person can take actions to fight this scourge that is killing an American every five minutes. This book offers real, hands-on answers about what can be done, what works and what does not, and how Americans can regain a sense of control over the addiction epidemic. This practical guide is for parents and grandparents, school personnel, employers, faith leaders, elected officials and policy makers, and others who want to make a difference against this cruel blight. The answers were gained through the long and painful experiences of a mother whose son died as a result of his opioid addiction. The story told here is a dramatic, page-turning, and real account, with heart-stopping fear, cliff-hanging rescues, periods of despair and respites of relief and joy that the son and his mother shared. Their love for each other was strong, but the mother learned that love is not enough to fight a terrible disease. As a professional researcher and writer, she sought answers after her son's death in science, history, public health policy, and spirituality. In this book, she shares what she learned and brings the reader inside one of the most important and timely topics in the nation today.