ESPN reporter shares personal tragedy of losing both parents within hours to fentanyl

Grieving Out Loud: A Mother Coping with Loss in the Opioid Epidemic

She’s known for her Sideline Shimmy. ESPN sports broadcaster Lauren Sisler is a sideline reporter for college football and gymnastics. But behind the camera, Lauren hid a family secret for a decade. Both of her parents struggled with opioid use disorder after being prescribed painkillers by doctors—a disease that ultimately took her mom’s life, followed by her dad’s just five hours later.

Tune in to hear Sisler’s tragic story, how she navigated her grief, and why she’s decided to share her journey publicly. She has also authored a new book, “Shatterproof,” detailing her experience with grief, shock, and shame and offering a message of hope and resilience.

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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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Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Marley Miller