Cooper Noriega seemed to be living the dream. At just 19 years old, the social media influencer had amassed millions of followers on TikTok and hundreds of thousands more on other social platforms. Not stopping there, he ventured into modeling and had ambitious plans to launch a clothing line focusing on mental health awareness. However, beneath the surface of his stardom, Cooper faced his battles with mental health and substance abuse. In fact, just days before his deadly drug overdose, the star launched a safe space for his fans to discuss mental health openly.
In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, you’ll discover how his parents are carrying forward that critical mission in Cooper’s name through Coop’s Advice. His dad, Harold Noriega, also shares insights into what might have contributed to their son’s challenges and has a heartfelt message for other parents.
We hope this conversation enlightens you and provides valuable insights into one of the most pressing issues affecting today’s youth: fentanyl.
To submit a memorial for a loved one lost to overdose/fentanyl poisoning visit MoreThanJustANumber.org
MEET THE GUEST
Harold Noriega
Harold Noriega, also known as ‘Coop’s Dad,’ lost his son, Cooper, to a tragic overdose of Fentanyl-laced Xanax in June 2022. In Cooper’s memory, Harold is dedicated and continues to honor his beautiful boy’s work through the Coop’s Advice Foundation, which continues Cooper’s vision of providing support, awareness, and education regarding Fentanyl’s dangers and youth mental health struggles.
