Joshua Lentz 5/15/1997 - 12/21/2024

I know many of my friends and family have wondered what happened to my son, Josh.

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share, but if telling my son’s story helps even one person—or prevents another family from experiencing this unimaginable loss—then I know that Josh’s life and story will make a difference.

Josh started taking something called Kratom. You can buy it almost anywhere—gas stations, vape shops, even at wellness events and Kava bars. It’s marketed as “natural” or a “wellness” product, promoted as an energy booster, mood enhancer, and pain reliever. It sounds harmless, right? Josh thought so too when he bought it at the Sunoco gas station.

But Kratom is far from harmless. It can have serious side effects and is extremely addictive. A simple Google search for “Kratom deaths” or “Kratom side effects” reveals a disturbing truth—People are dying from this product! It is banned in seven states and in many cities and counties across the U.S., as well as in most European countries. It’s even illegal in parts of Southeast Asia, where it originates from a tropical tree and is classified as an opioid.

Josh had his first seizure on a Saturday night. He saw his doctor that Wednesday, but sadly, even his doctor wasn’t aware of the dangers of Kratom. The following Saturday morning, my only son was found deceased by his father from Acute Mitragynine (Kratom) Toxicity.

My heart is forever shattered. No parent, no loved one, should ever have to experience this pain. Please—if you or someone you love is using or considering Kratom—don’t. It’s not worth the risk.

I miss my only child, my son Josh, every moment of every day. Josh was deeply loved by so many for his kindness, empathy, sharp wit, love of philosophy, and his love of every dog. Josh’s beautiful soul lives on and I know he would want his story told to help others.

Please sign this petition and share.  I will be using this in all my efforts to Ban Kratom.

Josh’s Mom - Becky

Mothers Against Herbal Abuse: mothersagainstherbalabuse.org
Kratom Danger Awareness: kratomdangerawareness.org

If you are someone you know has been impacted by Kratom, please contact: MedWatch, the FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.