Overdose Awareness Memorial Service 27 August
A special tenth anniversary of Overdose Awareness Day will be held at Uniting Church, Frankston on Friday, 27 August from 11.30 – 12.30pm.
Peninsula Health’s SHARPS is holding the memorial service to support family and friends who have lost someone due to an overdose. It will include a candle lighting ceremony, guest speakers and an open microphone session for people to sing and pay tribute to ones lost.
Sean Swift from SHARPS said overdoses have a profound affect on the community and can cause ongoing anguish for the family and friends of those who have suffered an overdose.
“Often the grief that friends and families carry is made harder by the stigma associated with drug use. Their inability to properly mourn can have lasting effects and leave many asking why they couldn’t do anything to stop it from happening,” he said.
“This event is an inclusive and welcoming environment, where people can celebrate the memories of those they love and freely share how they have been affected. Some former drug users will be among the crowd paying tribute to friends lost.”
SHARPS workers, counsellors and representatives from other community support agencies will be on hand for advice or support.
“Overdose Awareness Day brings together all sorts of people who have been affected by overdose in one way or another,” Sean added.
If you would like to participate or have any queries, please contact SHARPS on 9781 1622.
