Online memorial provides comfort to grieving families NORWALK, Conn. , Aug. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shatterproof, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the addiction treatment system in the U.
S., is encouraging families to honor their loved ones lost to addiction by posting on The National Addiction Memorial this International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31 . The observance serves as a reminder of the overdose crisis that is impacting communities worldwide.
In 2023, there were an estimated 107,543 U.S. drug-related deaths.
Despite a substance use disorder being a treatable medical condition, it has claimed nearly a million lives over the past decade. This is in large part due to the stigma and shame surrounding substance use, inhibiting most people from seeking the help they need to recover. The National Addiction Memorial is an online platform where family and friends can create a lasting tribute to loved ones who lost their lives to addiction.
At the same time, the stories serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of a substance use disorder. "My son, Brian, was taken from us too soon. When he passed away, and I realized that I would never again be able to hug him, hear his voice, or talk to him about his dreams, it was devastating," said Gary Mendell , founder and CEO of Shatterproof.
"I want you to know that you are not alone. Too many of us have lost someone we loved to this disease. So, I created a place where families like ours ca.