Community members gathered on Friday, Aug. 31, 2023, to remember Ryan and others who have died of a drug overdose. Aug. 31 is Drug Overdose Awareness Day, and September is Drug Overdose Awareness Month.

Credit: Cheryl Splain

MOUNT VERNON – International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is observed each year to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and inspire lasting change in how communities support those affected by substance use.

This year, the Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) invites the community to join together for “End Overdose in Knox County” on Saturday, Aug. 30, to remember lives lost, support survivors, and stand in solidarity with families impacted by addiction.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, located at 501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon.

Event Agenda

  • 5:30 p.m. – Welcome & reading of proclamations
  • 5:45 – 7:00 p.m. – Resource tables and refreshments
  • 7:00 p.m. – Community Walk to Rastin Tower
  • 7:10 – 7:30 p.m. – Testimonials and prayer
  • 7:35 – 7:45 p.m. – Reading of names lost to overdose
  • 8:00 p.m. – Tower lighting and moment of silence

Throughout the evening, attendees will hear personal stories from community members and receive education on Narcan, the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication. They can take home a free Narcan kit. Local organizations will also host resource tables, and refreshments will be available by donation.

As the sun sets, participants will walk the illuminated bike path from the Chamber of Commerce to Rastin Tower at Ariel-Foundation Park. The evening will conclude with a moment of silence and the lighting of Rastin Tower in purple, symbolizing remembrance, recovery, and hope.

“We invite you to stand with us as we recognize and honor stories of both tragedy and triumph in our community,” said KSAAT representative Tina Cockrell. “Together, we can raise awareness, support healing, and shine a light on the path to recovery.”

Families who have lost a loved one to overdose are encouraged to submit a tribute online to be included in the evening’s remembrance:
https://airtable.com/appGYcA6wdvrp…/pagOdJhUPDq6FY305/form