I am a mother, retired secondary school teacher (Toronto District School Board), and advocate for prescription opioid drug reform. In June 2004, I lost my only child, Michael, 29 years of age to a prescription opioid. This personal tragedy would prompt extensive soul-searching, reading, researching and learning. What I have discovered is an ongoing broader tragedy of prescription addiction, overdoses and deaths. It is in the spirit of prevention and hope for change through education and awareness with which I wish to communicate a message to all families.