A statewide crackdown is making sure alcoholic beverages aren’t getting into the hands of people under the age of 21.  The latest effort was called “Operation Boutonniere Bust.”  Rachelle Grossman was granted special permission to ride along with undercover agents to see first-hand if local stores were selling booze to minors.

When used in high doses, opiate medications can depress respiration and even cause death.  Mixing them with alcohol makes them even more deadly.  According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, 169 people died from drug overdoses in Lee County during the first 6 months of last year.  Of those, 82-percent involved prescription drugs, mostly opiates like oxycodone.  Many addicts want help, but find it hard to stop.  As part of our Your Voice series “Addicted” Rachelle Grossman spoke to an addict facing the grim truth that his dependency on prescription drugs could end his life.

The Willough of Naples is a treatment center for chemical dependency. Self magazine has recognized it one of the top ten treatment centers in the United States. Reporter Rachelle Grossman reports on those the Willough treats who are addicted to opiates. They say the pills are far too easy to get in Southwest Florida.

The Neighborhood Health Clinic in Collier County’s slogan is “healthcare for those who choose work over welfare”. The founders – Nancy and Dr. Bill Lascheid founded the all-volunteer clinic ten years ago. They’ve received national recognition for their model of care. They’ve helped thousands in the decade, including Debra Creese. Rachelle Grossman has her story.