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A Community United Against Fentanyl
In recent years, the battle against fentanyl has become a pressing concern for communities across the United States. Ohio, in particular, witnessed nearly 5,200 accidental overdose deaths in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures. Against this somber backdrop, nonprofit organization Devvastated, founded by Vikki Stickelman, is leveraging the healing power of music to combat the fentanyl crisis.
Devon’s Legacy: A Personal Mission
Vikki Stickelman's mission is deeply personal. Just two days before her son Devon's 30th birthday, he lost his life to fentanyl, having unknowingly taken what he thought was a prescription pill. Vikki shared that even a minuscule amount of fentanyl can be fatal, likening it to the tip of a pencil. This fatal encounter pushed Vikki to establish Devvastated, aiming to provide support and raise awareness about the dangers of addiction.
Healing Through Music: The Benefit Concert
The highlight of their efforts is the upcoming benefit concert at Trillions Bar and Grill in West Chester, designed not only to raise funds but also to foster a sense of community healing. The event features four artists, including Devon’s best friend, Blake Tyler, who wrote a poignant song entitled 'Everybody Leaves' in Devon's memory. Tyler emphasized the songwriting process as deeply emotional, reflecting his daily remembrance of Devon and his hope that Devon is proud of him.
The Power of Narcan and Harm Reduction Education
At the concert, guests will hear from Sharona Bishop, a 11-year sobriety advocate who attributes her life-saving recovery to Narcan. She passionately advocates for increased access to naloxone (Narcan) and drug testing strips, important tools in the ongoing fight against overdose deaths. “We need more understanding of harm reduction,” Bishop stated, stressing the necessity of educating the public about these life-saving measures.
Creating Meaning from Tragedy: Importance of Awareness and Support
The concert isn't just about remembrance; it's a call to action to support families affected by addiction. “If I can save one parent from going through what I went through, I’ve done something,” Stickelman remarked during her emotional recollection of Devon. This type of engagement serves to bring communities together, fostering understanding, compassion, and tangible support for those struggling with addiction.
Looking Ahead: A Shift in Community Attitudes
Events like these symbolize a growing awareness of the fentanyl crisis and the need for community support systems. With organizations like Devvastated spearheading initiatives, there’s hope for profound change in understanding how to tackle this epidemic. From victim memorials to educational events, every step taken in memory of those lost can help to pave the way for a more informed community.
As the music plays at the benefit concert, it will not just echo through the restaurant but resonate with anyone who has faced the challenges of addiction or lost a loved one to it. Together, communities are beginning to confront the tragic realities of substance abuse while celebrating the lives of those they have lost.
The Dedication to healing through music, raising awareness about fentanyl, and creating support networks for recovery is a vital part of rebuilding lives and communities. Let us support initiatives that focus on compassionate education and the promotion of harm reduction strategies, ensuring that the loss of one becomes the foundation for empowering many.
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