An Overdose Awareness Day event is set from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 31 at Real Life Chapel in Easton.
Cities and towns across the globe have events scheduled for this international observance, which recognizes those who’ve died from overdoses, and spreads the message that overdose deaths are preventable. Attending offers a powerful way to stand together and remember those we’ve lost. The global events also help spread the message that the tragedy of overdose death IS preventable.
“When I started this fight against addiction with my son, no one wanted to hear or talk about the opioid epidemic,” said Sherry Collier, event organizer. “We’ve made great strides since then and this event is aimed at awareness around preventing more deaths and reducing the stigma of overdoses and addiction.”
The event is located outside and will feature several key speakers, including Talbot County Sheriff Joe Gamble and Chris Jones, a local mother who lost her son, Brandon, to an overdose. Jones will speak toward the end of the event, which concludes with a vigil for those we’ve lost. Anyone attending is encouraged to bring a picture of loved ones they’ve lost to an overdose.
Also planned for the event is music with Bruce Strazza and Alive at Five; food vendors; a community mosaic project with Jen Wagner-Campbell; Narcan information with Talbot County Health Department; resources and information on local treatment and recovery options; a mock bedroom trailer and fun family activities like face painting.
The Easton event is hosted by Mid-Shore Restoring Hope in Women, Inc., a local non-profit organization that supports women in need of recovery services.
For information contact Sherry Collier at [email protected] or Kelley Callaghan at [email protected].
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