Home » Lexington to observe International Overdose Awareness Day

Lexington to observe International Overdose Awareness Day

Scheduled for Aug. 29

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 24, 2015) — Lexington will observe International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 29. The day, held nationally on Aug. 31, “aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death,” according to the organization’s website. “It also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have met with death or permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.” This year’s theme is “Rethink and Remember.”

odIn Lexington, more than 80 people have died of drug overdoses this year. Every hour, of every day, five Americans die from a drug overdose.

The Lexington event, hosted by the Department of Social Services, begins at 10 a.m. at Jacobson Park. It will feature a variety of visual memorials, first-hand stories from overdose survivors and educational activities. The highlight Lexington’s Overdose Awareness Day will be a tree planting in memory of overdose death victims. Other features include:

  • Narcan (naloxone) injection demonstration and kit distribution
  • Drug treatment and drug overdose educational resources
  • Speeches from families affected by drug abuse and drug overdose
  • Overview of overdose issues in Lexington from city and county officials

For more information contact the office of Social Services at (859) 258-3834 or go to drugfreelex.org.