International Overdose Awareness Day

A day to remember…

The 70,000 beautiful, creative souls we lose to accidental overdose every year.

The 88,000 who die from alcohol-related causes annually.

The 400+ we will lose today.

Those who have survived an overdose event, but are left with long-term, persistent brain damage.

Their caregivers.

Those in active addiction who live under the shadow of potential overdose.

Those who are living with the deep sorrow and loss of a loved one to the disease of addiction.

Parents who desperately hope they will never receive ‘the call’.

That naloxone saves lives. With education we all can be prepared to administer this medication and potentially save a life.

Those who are living in recovery.

That the stigma and societal judgment of addiction and mental health disorders wounds and kills.

That kindness, love, consideration, inclusion, and education all serve to bring hope and healing to those who many view as lost and irredeemable.

That all are created by God and thus worthy of our respect and care.

*****

Let us have eyes and hearts that see our walking wounded. So they know they’re not alone. So they know they are valued. So they know that we care.
We are aware. 💜