Friend,

As you may know, I lost my brother, Doug, this past week.

I am grateful for the outpouring of support I’ve received from our community. It is powerful to see a community come together to support one another, especially in times of crisis.

Doug was a dear brother and son, and a loving father. He was just a good and caring man, and I was blessed to have him in my life.

Doug struggled with heroin addiction for over 20 years. Since I was probably 10 or 11 years old. It’s something that’s been with us almost my entire life.

People who have family members who struggle with addiction know, this is something we think about constantly. Through the cycles of getting clean, and relapsing. And the fear that this is how it will end. 

With his passing, he’s become yet another reminder of the need for effective and compassionate treatment for this disease. We’ve lost too many people. We have to do better.

I am running for Congress for people like Doug, and for the families impacted by the opioid crisis that has harmed so many.

If you or your family have been impacted by the opioid crisis, I stand strongly alongside you. Enough is enough — it is time we find real solutions that provide treatment, rehabilitation, and empathy for those struggling.

How has opioid addiction affected you or your family? If you feel inclined to share, please tell us your story.

I am fighting to bring change to Western and Central Massachusetts. I am fighting for families like mine and like yours. Together we are going to end this crisis.

Thank you for your continued support.

Alex

P.S. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).