Brad Warren's Heartfelt Message: Coping With Loss And Addiction Awareness

Country songwriter Brad Warren is sharing his story almost three months after the tragic loss of his son, Sage. At just 21 years old, Sage's life was cut short due to an accidental drug overdose. In his emotional reflections, Brad offers poignant advice for those grappling with the challenges of a loved one's addiction while expressing gratitude for the support his family has received during this difficult time.

On May 18, Sage Michael Warren passed away, leaving behind his parents, Brad and Michelle, along with his siblings, Quinn and Jude, and his grandparents. Although his obituary did not specify a cause of death, Brad revealed on Facebook that Sage died in his sleep after consuming drugs that were likely laced with fentanyl. This heart-wrenching revelation serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse.

In speaking about his son's struggles, Brad reflects on Sage's addictive behavior that he noticed as early as age 10. As a father with 15 years of sobriety, he recognized the signs but felt helpless as Sage's challenges escalated. Brad's story emphasizes the importance of awareness and communication regarding addiction, reminding parents to remain vigilant and supportive in the face of these issues.

Sage's Struggles with Addiction

Brad Warren openly discusses the early signs of Sage's struggles, which became more pronounced during his college years. Initially, Sage engaged in typical adolescent behavior, but this escalated to substance use that concerned his family. Brad recounts the pivotal moments when they realized they needed to intervene to protect their son from the path he was on.

Intervention and Recovery Journey

After a DUI incident in 2017, Brad and his wife decided it was time for a serious intervention. They brought Sage back to Nashville and encouraged him to attend rehab. This decision led to a transformative period in Sage's life, where he embraced sobriety and found purpose. Brad reflects on how this year was filled with hope and recovery, showcasing the profound impact of support and love.

Lessons Learned from Loss

Despite the positive turn in Sage's life, Brad acknowledges that setbacks occurred, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sage struggled with the changes in his recovery routine, leading to a gradual decline in his commitment to sobriety. Brad's experiences serve as a reminder of the fragility of recovery and the importance of remaining vigilant, even after seemingly positive progress.

Support and Advocacy for Families

Brad Warren aims to use his son's tragic story to help others facing similar challenges. He emphasizes that addiction is a disease, urging parents to seek help and support. He poignantly advises treating alcohol and drugs with the utmost respect, equating them to dangerous objects that can cause harm if not handled with care. His message highlights the need for open dialogue and proactive measures in addressing substance abuse.