Rock Hill Comes Together for International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day

The city of Rock Hill joined the rest of the world in recognizing the International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) on the 31st of August. IOAD is a yearly event geared towards increasing the awareness of drug overdose besides reducing the negative stigma related to substance-related deaths. It’s also aimed at honoring individuals whose lives were lost due to drug overdose and their grieving families and loved ones.

The main message of IOAD is to reiterate that the tragedy of drug-related deaths primarily caused by overdose is avoidable, hence the need for enhanced efforts towards its prevention.

Keystone’s Luminary Vigil

In light of the IOAD, Keystone organized a Luminary Vigil at Fountain Park, East Main Street, Rock Hill. The vigil, which lasted from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm, was a significant ceremony aimed at honoring lives lost to drug overdoses. A striking feature of the event was the 118 luminary bags lit in purple. These represented the 118 individuals who lost their lives due to drug overdose in York County in 2023.

Keystone provided free luminary bags to honor the bereaved families and friends who lost their loved ones to drug overdose. The organization also distributed Narcan, a drug used to prevent overdose, educational materials, resources to support groups within York County, and Deterra drug deactivation bags for the disposal of expired or unused medication. This is all in a bid to fight against drug overdose and SAVE LIVES.

Support from the Community and the City of Rock Hill

The York County Coroner’s Office was also present to share a few words emphasizing the importance of the event. The residents of Rock Hill were highly encouraged to show their support by wearing purple or putting up purple adornments around their residences like porch lights or ribbons.

In a show of support, the city of Rock Hill demonstrated solidarity by illuminating the water tower on Main Street in purple. This was a powerful symbol shining against the night sky reminding everyone of the lives lost and the continuous battle against drug overdose. Keystone and York County remain steadfast in their pursuit of fostering understanding, promoting compassion, and making a difference.

Keystone has been serving the community for over fifty years, dedicated to enhancing the quality life of individuals and families affected by substance use through treatment provision, education, and continuous support.

The fight against drug overdose is ongoing, but with awareness and continued communal effort, we can make a significant change. Each life saved represents a victory, and Rock Hill stands united in preventing the tragedy of drug-related deaths.