In an era where streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu bring the grim realities of America’s opioid crisis to the forefront through compelling narratives and star-studded casts, the painful truth hits home for countless families. Among them is Sandra Martinez, whose daughter Qarinna’s journey began with a seemingly benign prescription for opioids to address a health condition. However, this prescription marked the start of a harrowing descent into substance use disorder, echoing the chilling plotlines of horror films.
Qarinna’s struggle saw her life unravel, leading to homelessness, exploitation, and abuse. In this compelling episode of Grieving Out Loud, Sandra bravely recounts her daughter’s ordeal, shedding light on the overlooked warning signs and sharing essential insights to help other parents navigate similar challenges.
Discover more episodes of Grieving Out Loud, including an exclusive interview with Dan Schneider, the inspiration behind the hit Netflix docuseries “The Pharmacist,” on the Emily’s Hope website. Explore our podcast series here and delve into the backstory of “The Pharmacist” here.
MEET THE GUEST
Sandra Martinez
Sandra Martinez is a dedicated natural health doctor based in Riverside, California. Unfortunately, Sandra experienced the profound loss of her daughter on June 28th, 2020, to a lethal dose of fentanyl and other highly dangerous drugs. Fueled by this personal tragedy, Sandra, along with her husband, has taken on the responsibility of raising her granddaughters, whom her daughter left behind. Now, Sandra channels her grief into advocacy and awareness, determined to shed light on the dangers of overprescription and the devastating impact it can have on families.
