We can play role in opioid solution

Look around. Canada is in the midst of a raging opioid epidemic that unfortunately has reached its boiling point. It’s everywhere, and addiction is rapidly spreading through the provinces and territories. This outbreak of opioids is a catastrophic storm, with an undeniable life of its own. Don’t be oblivious and turn a blind eye, illegal opioids are on the streets of every community.

These potent painkillers are tearing families apart, putting people on streets, and forcing people to lie, steal and cheat. Last year, statistics showed almost 4,000 apparent opioid related deaths in Canada. P.E.I., I’m pleading; we need to come together and use the resources we thankfully have to loosen the grip these noxious drugs have on addicts.

Tragically, the number of fatal overdoses rises each year. These are preventable deaths, people. Naloxone (Narcan) kits. These wallet sized kits are equipped with medication that temporarily suspends opioid overdose. I believe the government should set regulations where Narcan kits have to be readily available in schools, workplaces, bars, and all public places. Think of these kits as comparable to first aid kits and epiPens and we could markedly decrease the rapidly growing overdose count.

People are dying. Fast. Go to your community mental health and addictions or nearby hospital and request a Naloxone kit. This is the future. We can push back against the hold opioids have on Canadians and save our people.

Isabelle MacPhee, Souris Regional