When I hear Wisconsin families share how the opioid epidemic has wrecked their lives, I hear so many experiences I can relate to. That’s because I’ve been there.

When I was young, I remember what it was like to come home from school and not be able to get into the house. I’d pound on the door, but my mother wouldn’t answer. She’d be passed out inside.

My mother struggled with mental illness and addiction to prescription drugs her entire life. I began speaking candidly about her story after hearing from so many others who have been impacted by addiction.

I know how hard this fight is. I know the stigma that comes with addiction and mental illness.

This fight is deeply personal for me, as it is for too many Wisconsin families in every corner of our state. So I’m committed to doing everything I can to end it.

In the Senate, I worked to pass bipartisan legislation and led efforts to secure a $1 billion emergency investment to fight the epidemic. I helped deliver life-saving resources to support local treatment, recovery, and prevention efforts. And I’m not done working to deliver even more for our communities.

We’re stronger when we work together and listen to one another. As any person who has felt the impact of the opioid crisis can tell you, this fight won’t be easy — but I believe we can make change when we work together and have somewhere to turn for help.

Thank you for reading this message today. I’m sharing my mother’s story with you because I know mental illness and addiction are nothing to be ashamed of. I think my mother would want to know that her story is helping others.

— Tammy