International Overdose Awareness Day Ceremony

From Anne Arundel PD: What: International Overdose Awareness Day Press Q&A and Ceremony

Where: Arundel Christian Church

710 Aquahart Road
Glen Burnie, Maryland 21061
When: Thursday, August 31, 2017
Press Q&A at 6:00 p.m.
Doors open to public at 6:45 p.m.
Ceremony at 7:15 p.m.

Who: Recovery Anne Arundel ROSC (Recovery Oriented Systems of Care)

Anne Arundel County/Annapolis Police Department

Anne Arundel County/ Annapolis Fire Department
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s Office
Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office
Numerous state and county government officials

Background:

Started in Australia, International Overdose Awareness Day originated when two
community workers hosted a local event on August 31 st where they distributed silver ribbons to
anyone who wanted to remember someone who had died due to an overdose. The idea quickly
spread and is now a globally recognized event where thousands of people worldwide will stand
alongside the friends and families of fatal overdose victims to reflect on those who have been
lost. The intent of IOAD is to not only respectfully remember those who have lost their lives by
overdose, but to also raise awareness that any overdose is preventable.
For more information on the background, resources, and/or to support IOAD
http://www.overdoseday.com/

Event:

On August 31, 2017, Recovery Anne Arundel ROSC will be hosting our 2nd
International Overdose Awareness Day Candlelight Vigil: “Time to Remember, Time to Act,
Time to Heal”.

Join Anne Arundel County/Annapolis residents, the recovery community, state/county elected
officials, first responders, healthcare/treatment providers, educators, faith-based organizations,
and local businesses as we gather support all who have been affected by overdose and help the
community understand that fatal overdose is an issue that affects mainstream society.
Stand beside us with the friends and families of fatal overdose victims to reflect on their
losses, learn about what actions are taking place in their area to help those struggling with the
disease of addiction, and reinforce the idea that no one need feel shame or disgrace at the death
of someone from alcohol/drug overdose.

• A diverse group of speakers with a story of hope and healing
• The premiere of the “I Still Remember” Memorial Photo Project slideshow
• Music performances including “The Prize” by world-renowned Italian tenor, Elio Scaccio

• The “Comfort Café” featuring Anne Arundel County Police Department’s “Comfort” the facility dog, the “Tree of Remembrance”, Mobile Crisis, Annapolis Music Therapy, and grief and spiritual counseling.

As of August 3, 2017, there have been 684 overdoses and 88 fatalities in Anne Arundel

County alone. We have developed programs and resources to help combat addiction but we
cannot do it alone. We need your help to raise awareness and help support those who need help.

Please come out to honor loved ones, families, and friends that have suffered an overdose
tragedy.

We invite you, your clients, colleagues, family members, and friends to join us on
Thursday, August 31, 2017 as we host a candlelight vigil starting at 7:15 pm at the Arundel
Christian Church, 710 Aquahart Road, Glen Burnie, Maryland 21061. Private press Q&A begins
at 6:00 p.m., doors will open to the public at 6:45 p.m.

Image Via Pixabay