Remembering Jovanni: Mandolyne Eleazar’s Story of Love & Loss

On Overdose Awareness Day, we pause to honor the lives lost to addiction and stand beside the families forever changed by it. In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, co-host Wendy Beck and I sit down with Mandolyne Eleazar, a mother who courageously shares the story of her son, Jovanni, and the devastating impact of fentanyl.

At just 18 years old, Jovanni’s life was cut short by fentanyl toxicity. Mandolyne speaks with raw honesty about her family’s journey—the ups and downs of treatment, the healing power of family therapy, the painful realities of stigma, and the importance of saying her son’s name out loud to keep his memory alive.

Why This Episode Matters

Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Families everywhere are facing the same battles:

• Struggling to access effective treatment for teens

• Carrying the heavy burden of stigma and isolation

• Learning to support siblings who grieve in different ways

• Searching for community and hope in the midst of tragedy

Mandolyne reminds us that grief doesn’t fade—it changes shape. And in sharing her story, she ensures that Jovanni’s light continues to shine through his art, his music, and the memories she holds.

Overdose Awareness Day: Take Action

Overdose Awareness Day is not just about remembering; it’s about preventing future loss. Here are some ways you can make a difference today:

• Say their names. Honor those we’ve lost, just as Mandolyne honors Jovanni.

• Learn how to use Narcan. Carrying naloxone can save a life—it should be as common as knowing CPR.

• Support organizations making a difference. Rage Against Addiction provides programs, recovery housing, and resources to families in need. Consider becoming a Monthly Donor to fuel their mission.

• Share this episode. Conversations like these break stigma and remind families that they are not alone.

Remembering Jovanni

Jovanni was more than his struggles. He was an artist, a brother, and a son with big dreams. After his passing, his family discovered hundreds of his music tracks—living proof of his creativity and spirit. Today, his music is available under the artist name LOSTMULTO, including his EP The Big Bang Theory.

On this Overdose Awareness Day, join us in saying his name: Jovanni.

Support Rage Against Addiction: Become a Monthly Donor

Learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day: https://www.overdoseday.com