Debary, FL - There are a number of events happening locally in remembrance of International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday. In Debary, an event hosted by My Life Matters - Harm Reduction Outreach, takes place at Gemini Springs in the morning.
Michelle Cyphers started the non-profit after losing her son to an overdose. "Losing him changed my life and going through this and learning more after he passed I knew I needed to continue on with his legacy and never let anyone forget about him. He was an amazing human being beautiful inside and out. He had more love in his heart and compassion for others, that it just makes this so much more incredibly difficult. He had been clean for some time and decided one more time."
Cyphers said since starting the outreach (which includes giving Narcan in the community ) over 20 lives have been saved that have been reported back.
The event at Gemini Springs begins at 9 a.m. with opening remarks from Sheriff Mike Chitwood, followed by a remembrance walk at 9:30. A butterfly release is set for 10:30. A Resource Expo will be in place distributing Narcan and other harm reduction materials. Joe Nester, artist in recovery, will be there to perform.
If you go, you're asked to wear purple to remember those lost and still struggling. If you'd like more information, you can contact Michelle Cyphers at mycrosswave@aol.com or 386-561-0028.
