Nancy Tiegel Espuche is a speaker, author, mother, advocate. She wrote KardBoard House, a memoir to give voice to the loving, tender, and often difficult exchanges between Lucas and herself during his years of opioid addiction. Their story highlights their unbreakable connection and the profound realization that only Lucas and not she had the power to change the course of his life.

Nancy’s search for answers, relief, a “fix” began a journey that she now defines as “destination unknown.” She could not have imagined the long tumultuous road ahead. But what she learned quickly was how many others were walking, running, and trotting on their own version beside her. It took a while to comprehend that this journey of survival required the minds and hearts of fellow travellers and the compassion, empathy and support from business leaders, community organizers and educational professionals. Nancy was determined to break the silence and inspire those in charge to initiate strategies and open the dialogue.

Nancy is a sought-after public speaker who has been privileged to share her experience as the keynote speaker at the International Employee Assistance Professional conference, New York City Bar Antitrust breakfast, Lawyers Assistance Retreat Conference, Metropolitan State University, and the Chris Wivholm fundraiser in New York City. She was also interviewed by the St. Paul Press and Newsweek and the guest speaker for Onward Podcast where she addressed the losses, gains and critical lessons learned living with Lucas’ long and arduous battle with opioid addiction.