Narcan Saves So Many Lives

The opiate and heroin addiction and overdose crisis is affecting every community on Long Island and across the U.S. It is difficult to meet someone who has not been touched by this epidemic, by either knowing a friend or family member who has been affected.

For this reason and because she is a mother of three herself, Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton has made it her personal mission to make as many people aware of and trained in the one tool that is saving lives: Narcan.

On Monday March 5 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., she and New York State Assemblyman Charles Lavine will host a Narcan training session at The Congregation Tifereth Israel, located at 40 Hill Street in Glen Cove. “It is important across all levels of our community that we form partnerships to help those affected by this horrible disease,” Rabbi Huberman of Tifereth Israel said. “God cannot do all of this for us. We must work together to make a difference.”

A critical portion of the meeting discusses how many people have become addicted to opiates simply by taking prescription painkillers for a sports injury or after surgery. Some gravitate to heroin since it’s cheap and easy to get, while others stick with pain medicine. Some lose their families; others lose their lives. No socio-economic group is immune.

“I urge people to join us on March 5. The program is run by highly trained professionals who offer a great deal of information regarding the opioid crisis along with the Narcan training,” Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton said. “People who have either lost loved ones or have overcome addiction themselves share their moving stories. I truly believe that every resident should consider attending and become certified in this potentially life saving tool. The more people trained the better for all of us.”

Everyone in attendance (18 years or older) will receive a Narcan Kit and a certificate. There is no fee for the event, but please register by calling Delia’s office at 516-571-6211 or online at nassaucountyny.gov/overdosetraining to ensure there are enough Narcan kits.