In this episode of "This American Life," we hear a gripping story about a call to the "Never Use Alone" hotline, a lifeline for individuals who inject drugs and need someone to watch over them. The narrative centers on a nurse named Jessie and a caller named Kimber, who tragically overdoses during their conversation. As the story unfolds, we learn about the intertwined lives of Kimber, Jessie, and a paramedic named Steven, all of whom are affected by addiction. Jessie's compassionate approach, shaped by her own challenges and her relationship with her daughter, along with Steven's commitment to saving lives rooted in his past experiences, underscore the profound human impact of the opioid crisis. This episode beautifully illustrates how shared trauma can create unexpected connections and highlights the potential for recovery, even in the face of addiction's harsh realities.
