In episode three of our three part series on the opioid epidemic in America, we talk to Dr. Michael Nelson, a NorthShore University HealthSystem physician who is on the front lines of this epidemic. Dr. Nelson helps save the lives of overdose victims who come into the emergency department and works with patients who need help overcoming their addiction. Dr. Nelson also talks about the history of substance abuse in society and the frightening trends he sees today.

In episode two of our three part series on the opioid epidemic in America, we revisit Sharon, who after being confronted by her sister about her addiction decided to seek help. We then speak to addiction experts at the Doreen E. Chapman Center, a comprehensive treatment facility at NorthShore University HealthSystem in suburban Chicago for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

In episode one of three, we speak with Sharon, a mother of five from suburban Chicago who describes how she fell into opioid addiction after undergoing a surgical procedure to address her chronic pain.