On December 18th 2009, one of my best friends Joseph John Rovero III died from a combination of prescription drugs. Although I am an active member of the NCAPDA and have spoken openly about the loss of my friend, I still find it difficult to put my feelings into words. Losing Joey has changed my life in so many ways and it still does not seem real that he is gone. I would give anything just for one more joke, one more smile, one more memory with him. But since this cannot be I will dedicate the rest of my life in support of this coalition. My story is not that of a personal drug habit, but that of a young man who lost his best friend to prescription drugs that were intended to help. The rising trend of America’s youth falling into the trap of prescription drugs is very alarming. I believe that this coalition will be the first step of many to help rid our country of the idea the pill is the best “quick fix” for every problem. I feel that is if though at least one life can be saved from the tragic loss of Joey then he will not have died in vein. I apologize if my thoughts seemed scattered but none the less the message I hope to get across is that these prescription drugs are not a joke and even the smallest combination can be a lethal dose. I hope to continue and add on to my story as the coalition grows. Until then please take care of yourself and others. And to Joey I would like to say that I love you more than words can express, I miss you every single day but I am blessed to have a guardian angel like you, until we meet again my friend.

Zack Tehaney
zackery@pacbell.net