Saving Lives.

We all know about the drug problem.  This morning I was given a chance to learn how to save a life.

Our women's group invited a couple who talk to groups and were shown how a simple kit can save the life of an overdosed opioid user.

We first watched a 15 minute video showing the signs of an overdose then were taken step by step and shown how to use a kit to save their lives, which turned out to be very simple providing you had the knowledge and the tools.

Then those who wanted to, took the kit and went step by step how to use it.
The kit contains an instruction leaflet, three one-use syringes, and three 1cc doses  of Maloxone.

With the lifestyle I live, I think there is a very small chance that I will ever need to use it, but the kit is small, and if I carry it with me when out walking or in a crowd, I hope I will be able to acquit myself well.  The kit is viable for two years and can be replaced at no charge.

A very interesting morning.

What a wonderful idea. Train citizens who are willing to carry the kit.

How wonderful that you equipped yourself for saving the life of a stranger. Shows what a truly wonderful person you are, Kelejan.

A young man who was like a member of my family was struggling with an opioid addiction.  The clinic gave these kits for free, but he refused to take any because he was quitting and didn't want to seem like he was planning for a slip-up. Unfortunately, addiction is tough to battle, and he died of an overdose. He was truly a wonderful young man, not yet 30, who just happened to fall into this. He was not some skid row junkie, but someone trying to get his life back after being a fun-loving party animal. You really never know who has fallen victim to these drugs. Had he - or someone at work, where he died - had the kit, he would have lived to fight another day.

I am so sorry for the loss of your friend, BjW.  With hindsight it brings it home to "what might have been".  This story of yours will encourage me to carry this kit with me.

I do know from programs on TV  how the first responders feel who do this every day and they can get burnt out.  The same with all people who have continual contact with the poor souls who get caught up in these messes, and so sad for their families and loved ones.