When we met with Laycia Ianniello, her strength was undeniable. At just 16 years old, she has faced a loss no child should ever have to endure—the passing of her father due to fentanyl. Despite the pain, Laycia has turned her grief into advocacy, using her voice to spread awareness and prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak.
Laycia remembers her father as a loving and devoted parent. He was her biggest supporter, always encouraging her to chase her dreams. His presence filled their home with warmth and laughter. But behind the scenes, he struggled with substance use. Like many, he never intended for fentanyl to take his life.
The day she lost him changed everything. It was a sudden, heartbreaking realization that fentanyl doesn’t discriminate—it can take anyone in an instant. The pain of losing her father left a void, but it also ignited a passion in Laycia to make sure his story wasn’t forgotten.
Instead of letting loss define her, Laycia chose to become a voice for change. She connected with Monroe County Fights Fentanyl, sharing her story in hopes of helping others understand the deadly impact of this crisis.
Recently, Laycia filmed a powerful commercial about fentanyl awareness, standing in front of the camera with a message from the heart: “Losing my dad hurts. Spreading awareness helps.” She hopes that by sharing her story, more people will recognize the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of prevention, education, and support.
Coping with loss hasn’t been easy, but Laycia has found strength in speaking out. She wants others who have lost loved ones to know they are not alone. By turning her pain into purpose, she has become a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar grief.
Laycia’s advocacy is a reminder that awareness saves lives. She urges parents, friends, and community members to have conversations about the dangers of fentanyl, to support those in recovery, and to never assume it won’t happen to someone they love.
Looking ahead, Laycia hopes to continue making a difference, not just for her father’s memory, but for all the families who are affected by the fentanyl crisis. She wants to see more education, more support for those in recovery, and ultimately, fewer families experiencing the pain she knows too well.
Her message is clear: Talk about it. Share the facts. Fight fentanyl before it takes another life.
Join the fight. Learn more at WeFightFentanyl.org.
