From an early age, Miranda loved animals. At any given time, she had as many as three cats, three dogs, five chickens, a parakeet, a horse, as well as fish and rodents. She went on to become a certified pet care technician at age 11, and a wrangler at 16.

Even in these happy times, Miranda suffered from mental illness and was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology since she found the subject of mental health fascinating.

At the young age of 25, Miranda was discovered by her parents, Jim and Wendy, in her bedroom from an apparent overdose of prescription drugs. Jim talks about how he has found solace by dedicating a memorial website to Miranda on www.forevermissed.com, and establishing a charitable foundation to improve animal welfare and mental health services. For donations to the foundation, contact information is as follows:

Miranda Leigh Nelson Foundation 6872 Auburn Drive Huntington Beach, CA 92647 [email protected]

If you would like to tell your story about an overdose death, please contact Susan Claire at [email protected]

http://grievingoverdosedeath.libsyn.com/

Music provided by La Atlántida