Hi, this is my story about how I was drawn to advocate to take
action against opioid abuse and overdose.
As a first generation immigrant family, trying to establish a new life in the United States, the dangers of drug abuse were foreign and distant, However as the kids grew up and left elementary school, there was an instinctive worry as a parent that would they would fall into such habits. Although drug abuse did not penetrate our family, there were plenty of friends and family that seemed to be suffering from it. I met many young adults that fell victim to this addiction and lost their purpose, potential and sometimes even their life. The extent and reach of the epidemic became clear to me as started working on a project for my masters. 78 American die every day from Opioid overdoses. It is an epidemic and it is tearing away at the fabric of our society. As a parent and as a healthcare professional I feel compelled to do something. The government is acting, there is legislation in place. Recently funding was proposed. We need to make sure that the funding is released and is used for education and access to treatment. I hope you will do your part as well. Support the CARA Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016. Advocate with your state representation to make sure the funding is released and is used for education and access to addiction treatment. Narcan Can Save a life, come and join the effort.