More than 115 people in the United States die every day from overdosing on opioids as fatalities due to overdose are now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States.
Observed on August 31, every year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and create change to reduce the harms associated with drug use. IOAD provides a safe space for families to mourn the loss of their loved ones and offers an opportunity for communities to come together, learn and support each other. In 2018, there were 747 IOAD events held in 38 countries. People and communities came together to raise awareness of one of the world’s most urgent public health crises, one that, unfortunately, is only getting worse.
On Friday, August 30, the Buchanan County Opioid Taskforce will host International Overdose Awareness Day in Civic Center Park beginning at 6pm. The park is located on the south side of City Hall, 1100 Frederick Avenue. A Mayoral Proclamation will be read followed by an opportunity for those to share stories of hope who have survived overdose and/or to honor and remember those lost to overdose. Attendees are encouraged to bring a framed photo of loved one(s) lost to overdose to display in our memorial area. The pictures will not be kept as you will take them with you when the event is over. There will also be an information area for local resources on prevention, education, treatment and recovery for substance use disorders. For more information, call 236-1491.
View a full list of IOAD 2019 events currently planned around the world.