It is being called a crisis in this province. With 780 recorded drug overdose deaths between Jan. 1 and June 30 2017, B.C. is on pace to hit more than 1,400 overdose deaths this year.
Helen Jennens is a Kelowna woman who lost not one but two of her sons to drug overdoses.
Jennens has gone public with the loss of her two sons hoping to make a difference and educate the public.
“This is a medical issue, not a moral failing, not until we understand this, can we even begin to put an end to the largely preventable deaths by overdose,” Jennens said.
Jennens recently spoke to Global Okanagan News about losing her sons in an effort to raise more awareness about the issue of drug overdoses.
READ MORE: International Overdose Awareness Day coming to Kelowna
Jennens is also being credited with bringing the “Mom’s Stop the Harm” movement to the Okanagan.
“Mom’s Stop the Harm” is a support group that allows families of those who have died to remember and honour their loved ones while advocating for social policy and systems change.
The group is holding an “International Overdose Awareness Day” event in honor of those lost and in order to raise awareness about death by overdose and the impact it is having on our communities.
The event takes place Thursday, Aug. 31 and everyone is welcome to attend.
Schedule of Events:
Evangel Church – 3261 Gordon Dr 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
Education and Awareness – Speakers and Community Service Provider information
Candle Light Vigil – The Sails Downtown Kelowna 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Remembrance and Honoring – Music, Candlelight Vigil & Open Mic
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