Michigan families gather to remember those lost to drugs

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – In response to the Michigan Opioid Partnership, 5 individuals die from a drug overdose in Michigan every single day.

Learn: College of Michigan research reveals younger adults utilizing medicine greater than ever

Individuals throughout Mid-Michigan gathered Wednesday with their family members to recollect those that misplaced their lives to medicine. It was an evening about consciousness, but additionally about unity – households coming collectively to honor these taken from their households too quickly.

It was additionally about stopping the stigma.

“He was at all times cracking jokes. He liked music, he was inventive,” mentioned Michele Wagner, with Mitchell’s Hope. “He was extremely smart. We took the identical class in school, he didn’t take notes – I needed to take notes. He obtained a greater grade.”

Mitchell was all these issues and extra. He liked historical past and political science and was enrolled on the College of Michigan. He had the world in his arms.

“He was a fantastic hugger,” Wagner mentioned.

However behind his sort eyes, Mitchell was fighting heroine dependancy. He put up a courageous combat, however ultimately misplaced. He died at 23 years outdated.

“It was the day earlier than Thanksgiving 2014,” Wagner mentioned.

Within the final eight years, Wagner has devoted her time spreading consciousness to assist others. She holds an annual occasion to recollect these misplaced, however the 2022 occasion is completely different.

“This 12 months, we’ve extra individuals who have misplaced family members to fentanyl,” Wagner mentioned.

She now spends her time educating individuals on the best way to save lives with narcan, one thing she didn’t have to avoid wasting her son.

However she was additionally there for individuals. Simply to hear.

“I would like them to know they’re not alone,” Wagner mentioned. “I need to them to know there’s no disgrace of their recreation.”

She mentioned no person is alone if they give the impression of being round.

There may be assist obtainable in Mid-Michigan. Assets might be discovered on the Michigan Division of Well being and Human Providers web site right here.

The Substance Abuse and Psychological Well being Providers Administration hotline is a free, confidential 24/7 therapy referral and data service (in English and Spanish). It may be reached at 1-800-662-4357.

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