Opioid victims remembered at vigil, walk
their personalities and their priorities as long as they are in the throes of the disease,” she said.
The task force addresses destigmatizing opioid addiction, helps to prevent addiction and connects people to treatment options.
Like many who attended, Rich Mollica lost someone close to opioid addiction.
“Today I refuse to allow this illness to steal the memory of these people I’ve loved and lost,” he said, “You are loved and not alone.” Bob Novotny lost a son. “It will control your thoughts and actions,” he said. “Drug addiction doesn’t care if you die.
“Be aware of those at risk. Talk about this. Take action and become part of the solution. Most importantly, don’t turn away.”
Kevin Patrick Kelly talked about loss.
“Take the love you have for them and give it to every person you meet,” Kelly said.
Herrin ended the vigil with a quote from Martin Luther King Jr.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness,” Herrin said. “Only light can do that.
“Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.”