Community organizations focused on Regina’s overdose situation met in commemoration of International Overdose Awareness Day. Monday marked the 25th year of the awareness day. This year’s theme was, “25 years on. Still needed.” “We all care about preserving human life and that people can be helped when they are ready for help,” said Adrienne Hassard, a program coordinator at All Nations Hope Network. Pictures of people who lost their lives from issues related to substance use were put on on display by Moms Stop the Harm. Jenny Churchill is an advocate for Moms Stop the Harm. She said the pictures are a way to put a face to the issue and the overdose statistics. “It’s not statistics, it’s people. People loved by their families, friends, and their community. I think the faces of the folks really do add a different layer,” said Churchill. Musical performers and speakers sharing life experiences took the stage. Annie Brass shared her recovery story, crediting All Nations Hope as one of the places that helped her begin a life of sobriety. “I am thankful to be given this opportunity and lifetime. Anyone else who is looking to get sober and clean, there are resources and ways to do these things,” said Brass. The Regina Fire Department has attended many overdose calls this year across the city. At least one hundred were reported between June 1 and June 10 in Regina earlier this summer. It’s an issue that also affects many other communities. “We see them throughout the entire city. Nobody is immune to it,” said Gord Hewitt, the deputy fire chief of Regina Fire and Protective Services. “Anybody that is struggling with it, or has family struggling, there are resources in place.” The awareness event was coordinated by the All Nations Hope Network along with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
