Remembering Overdose Deaths On 'Black Balloon Day' In Bergen

PARAMUS, NJ — Substance use has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and an event at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center paid tribute to those who lost their lives from drug overdoses.

Black Balloon Day honors those who have died of a drug overdose, and celebrates the hope found in recovery. Hundreds of people came to Bergen New Bridge on Sunday to commemorate the lives of those New Jersey residents who died of overdoses, according to a press release.

Hallways were full of black and white balloons, as well as photos of those NJ residents who lost their lives to overdose. Representatives from the Black Poster Project and Alumni In Recovery, both dedicated to raising addiction and overdose awareness, were present.

"In addition to the mental health toll COVID has taken, substance use has increased throughout the pandemic exacerbating the epidemic within the pandemic," said Donnalee Corrieri, chief communications and marketing officer for the hospital.

Black Balloon Day is a nationally-recognized event, the hospital said.