Since my Feb. 7 column on prescription drug abuse, I’ve received a number of calls, e-mails and notes from readers expressing thanks for shining a light on this topic and words of encouragement to continue raising awareness.

One of the notes I received came from a physician, others came from public officials, a few involved in various areas of law enforcement and the legal system, as well as regular citizens.

I was inspired to write the column due to the string of prescription drug-related deaths over the past year here in South Arkansas. If you aren’t in the news busin...