According to recent reports, North Carolina has witnessed a significant surge in Fentanyl-related deaths. Shockingly, the drug claimed over 3,000 lives in the state last year alone.
On June 29, Angela Hughes took a proactive step to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of drugs. Her efforts resulted in the organization of a drug awareness event in Ocean Isle Beach. The event served as a platform for parents who have lost their children to come together, along with representatives from non-profit organizations and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office. Angela’s initiative is a much-needed step towards addressing the issue of drug abuse and its consequences.
According to Hughes, no type of drug is safe, and it only takes one pill, one time, to cause fatal consequences.
In 2021, Hughes tragically lost her son to poisoning from a pain medication that had been contaminated with fentanyl.
In order to prevent overdose deaths, help must be accessible to those who require it, according to her beliefs.
Hughes emphasized the importance of showing compassion to addicts, stating that people often tend to avoid them. According to her, it is crucial to let them know that they have someone to talk to and that they are not alone.
According to Lisa Smith, who leads the nonprofit organization Carolina Awareness Recovery Education, seeking assistance is crucial.
Smith empathized with those who may be struggling with substance use disorder and offered his support. “You’re not alone if you’re suffering out there. We support people with substance use disorder. We support those who have lost loved ones,” he reassured.
In her advocacy, Smith urges individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to drug addiction to speak up and become a voice for change. For those who have not gone through this experience, she suggests promoting resources for addiction recovery as a way to support those who are struggling with addiction.
Parents like Hughes are determined to make a difference even though they cannot bring their own children back. Their goal is to save other lives and improve the statistics.
Hughes stated that saving even a single child is worth the effort.