Editor’s Note:This story contains references to drug use, overdose, and suicide that may be disturbing to some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or thoughts of suicide, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or reach out to the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential support.
Howie Piper’s story begins in Brockton, Massachusetts, where he grew up in a big Italian family.
“Lots of food, lots of wine,” he said…