International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on August 31st each year and aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death.
International Overdose Awareness Day also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have met with death or permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.
To raise awareness in our community on August 31st, 2 free Narcan trainings will be held at the Ventnor Community Library at 2 and 4 p.m. followed by a remembrance event on the beach in Ventnor from 6-8 p.m. behind the Ventnor Community Library on Newport Ave.
If you would like your loved one commemorated, please send their name to staff@speakersforchange.org.
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the US, with 52,404 lethal drug overdoses in 2015. Opioid addiction is driving this epidemic, with 20,101 overdose deaths related to prescription pain relievers, and 12,990 overdose deaths related to heroin in 2015.
Stigma is one of the largest barriers in people receiving treatment for addiction. Organizing together as a community to remember those we have lost will help break down this barrier.
Overdose Day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable. Pre- registration is not required for the Narcan trainings, however there is a maximum of 25 people per training. Please wear white to the remembrance event on the beach to signify hope for others.
Attendees should all bring a beach chair or blanket. The remembrance event would be held in the community center or library if it rains.
For more information, please call Tracy Smith at 609-445-5121 or if you would like to have your loved one commemorated at this event please email information to staff@speakersforchange.org.