Wedge Gardens commemorated International Overdose Awareness Day by inviting men in rehabilitation to light a candle in memory of someone they have lost.
Held on August 31 at the Sanca centre, the day gives loved ones a day to honour those they’ve lost to substance abuse.
International Overdose Day aims to:
• Raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death.
• Acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends.
• Remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of a drug overdose.
• Spread the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.
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While retelling the story of his loss, a former Wedge Gardens patient said: “I felt her body next to mine; she was cold. I tried to wake her, felt for a pulse, nothing. I carried her to the shower and tried to revive her. I did CPR but it was too late.
“Four years later, the scene still replays clearly in my mind. Such a waste of somebody with so much talent. I would trade places with her if I could.”
Head of the centre, Adèl Grobbelaar, said every overdose is a loss.
“Those ignorant enough to say they deserved it has absolutely no understanding of the epidemic we are fighting. With every overdose, someone loses a son, daughter, friend or loved one. Nobody has the right to judge.
“My wish for you is that you will never feel that hopeless, or that overdose appears the only way out. Remember, we are here for you and we care.”
Contact Wedge Gardens on 010 534 6596 or visit www.wedgegardens.co.za
