Town to Host Program on Medicine Abuse

Christopher Ziolkowski, youth activities coordinator for Montville Township, is hoping residents attend what he said is a valuable and moving presentation about the risks associated with prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse given by a mother whose son died from a Xanax overdose.

The program, "Jason's Message," is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday at the .

New Jersey Prevention Network partnered with The Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey and the Drug Enforcement Administration Newark Division to launch the new campaign, which is focused on raising awareness about the dangers associated with abusing medicines, which the network said is a "growing trend."

The program was named after the son of Linda Surks, the coordinator for the Middlesex County affiliate of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.

"Jason was a pre-pharmacy major, worked part time in a pharmacy and saw medications being handed out everyday," a program description says. "He believed the drugs were safe and visited websites that told him they were safe.  Unfortunately, in December 2003, Jason passed away after overdosing on Xanax, which he had been using recreationally."

The Montville Township Drug Awareness Council and Montville Youth Services are presenting the program in cooperation with Morris County Prevention is Key. All residents are invited and refreshments will be served.

For more information call Ziolkowski at 973-335-7019 or send him an email.