Imagine walking into a room lined with hand-drawn graphite portraits—each one capturing the face of someone lost to fentanyl poisoning or a drug overdose. It’s a powerful experience, one that says more than statistics ever could. That’s the vision behind the INTO LIGHT Project, a nationwide nonprofit turning personal tragedy into public awareness through art.
On this episode of Grieving Out Loud, you’ll hear how the organization is not only raising awareness about the fentanyl epidemic, but it’s also giving grieving families a space to heal. And for the founder, this mission is deeply personal. Join us for this emotional and inspiring conversation that aims to inform, protect and provide hope.
Follow the INTO LIGHT Project
MEET THE GUEST
Theresa Clower
Theresa is the founder of the INTO LIGHT Project, a nonprofit that uses art and storytelling to honor lives lost to addiction and challenge the stigma surrounding substance use. After losing her son Devin to an accidental overdose in 2018, she turned to portrait drawing as a way to process grief and inspire empathy. With over 45 years in the nonprofit sector, Theresa now dedicates her work to changing hearts and minds through compassion and understanding.
MEET THE GUEST
Barbara Francois
Barbara is the Chief Operating Officer of the INTO LIGHT Project, where she writes powerful narratives to honor those lost to addiction. With a background in psychology and a passion for storytelling, she brings empathy and insight to each portrait’s story. Inspired by founder Theresa’s journey, Barbara is dedicated to ending the stigma of substance use disorder through compassion and connection.
