Who We Are
Losing a loved one or a friend from the tragedy of substance abuse is horrific and difficult to grasp. People experience devastating sorrow and profound grief. There are many ways individuals have found a path to peace and solace while honoring their loved ones and friends. We bring these to you in testimonials and stories in their own words from individuals who have also suffered fatality from the tragedy of substance abuse.
We are people helping people who have also suffered loss due to substance abuse.
The Emerald Star Path to Find Peace and Solace After Tragedy from Substance Abuse is what we strive for.
It is important we honor our loved ones and friends by acknowledging their name and years on this earth, for life is a journey.
Richard A. Luthmann Sr., R.Ph. “Rich” Founder
I have been a pharmacist for forty-six years. Owner & operator of a neighborhood pharmacy for many years, worked in multiple other types of pharmacies, chains, small retail, sterile compounding and recently administered over six thousand Covid-19 vaccinations.
To help people in need I have founded Emerald Star Network and it is my hope that people do not suffer in silence and live in despair following the death of a loved one. You are not alone; we also are finding solace after the tragedy of substance abuse. There are two loved ones my family has lost to the tragedy of substance abuse. My daughter-in-law Donna 23 and step-son Gregory 41. They each have left a young child without a parent.
My life has not been free of discourse. On July 31, 1994, I overdosed on multiple drugs and was pronounced clinically dead on the way to the hospital. I was amazingly revived and had a profound experience that reshaped my life. An Emerald Star Survivor is what I consider myself. I have been in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse for many years and it is a miracle that I am alive.
I personally invite you on this journey and We Welcome You.
Richard A. Luthmann Sr., R.Ph. “Rich” Founder