As an evening news anchor, Laura Monteverdi is used to reporting difficult stories—but one of the hardest stories she’s ever told is her own. In this powerful episode of Grieving Out Loud, Laura opens up about the devastating loss of her boyfriend, Brock Eidsness, to a heroin overdose.

At just 27 years old, Brock was full of life and ambition, working toward a successful career in film production. But beneath his accomplishments, he struggled with substance use—something Laura wasn’t fully aware of until it was too late. The moment she received the heartbreaking phone call that changed her life is one she says will stay with her forever.

For years, Laura kept her grief and Brock’s cause of death private, fearing stigma and judgment. But when she finally decided to share her story publicly, the response was overwhelming. Her journey from silent suffering to outspoken advocate has led her to educate others about addiction and the opioid crisis, hoping to spare others from experiencing the same pain.

Watch Laura's special on the opioid epidemic: Saving a Generation: The New Face of Drug Addiction

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The Emily’s Hope Substance Use Prevention Curriculum has been carefully designed to address growing concerns surrounding substance use and overdose in our communities. Our curriculum focuses on age-appropriate and evidence-based content that educates children about the risks of substance use while empowering them to make healthy choices. 

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Marley Miller