Anna Huneycutt came into the life of Don and Julie Harwell Huneycutt of Hendersonville, NC on July 22, 1989. As a loving daughter, devoted sister and loyal friend, Anna touched all who knew her with her passion for life. We never truly know how long any life is offered to be among us. Of course, we hope to share in the gift of having that person near us for many years. But, tragically, Anna passed away on March 6, 2010, at the age of 20. During the last two years of her life, she battled an addiction to prescription medication, a growing problem for people of all ages.
After Anna's death, the Huneycutts took a brave and proactive approach to shed light on a personal issue that few are willing to discuss openly. Appearing on local television media and in news stories, the Huneycutts offered a frank and real connection to others dealing with the same challenges. By personalizing how prescription medication abuse and addiction had touched their lives, the Huneycutts underscored the role of individuals, families, and communities in finding solutions. In addition, the family opened a donor-advised fund that helps support the charitable mission of programs that focus on helping youth and families who are battling an addiction to prescription medication.
Don and Julie continue a Facebook page for Anna that discusses issues of prescription addiction and provides an outlet for many to connect with their personal experiences. Beginning the discussion, discovering that we are not alone with this struggle, offering light where there was once darkness is truly Anna's Hope.