An average of 120 Americans die each day from an overdose, which leaves thousands of families and friends devastated from a preventable loss each year.  The National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse and Support 4 Recovery are hosting their second annual IOAD event in Concord to remember those lost to overdose deaths, support the family members and friends they left behind and to share how each of us can help turn this national epidemic around.

During this remembrance and prevention event, free educational materials will be available and local prevention and support experts will be on hand for consultation.  Local dignitaries and prevention and recovery experts will share their perspectives on this national health crisis.  Contra Costa County’s EMTS and Chaplains will be thanked and recognized for the lives they save from overdose each year and for the support they provide families who have lost a loved one from overdose.

Overdose rescue training will be provided by New Leaf Recovery Foundation and Naloxone rescue kits will be available to those who complete that training.  Specially trained dogs will be on hand to offer comfort and tribute will be paid to lost loved ones during a special remembrance that will include the reading of an original poem written for the occasion by Kathy Moore, the City of San Ramon’s Poet Laureate.  Attendees are encouraged to pay tribute to their lost loved ones by bringing photos, banners, posters, etc. to share in this safe place.

This is an opportunity for community members to help break down the stigma of overdose deaths, support those who are suffering from the loss of a loved one and to learn what you can do to make a difference.