International Overdose Awareness Day

The world’s annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind

Time to Remember. Time to Act.

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Hosting or attending an International Overdose Awareness Day event is a powerful way to join together to remember those who lost their lives to overdose.

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We provide campaign materials to share within your community to help prevent overdose.

Remember a lost loved one

Post your tribute to a loved one who has passed away from an overdose.

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Tributes to lost loved ones

My son Jonathan died of a heroin overdose September 26,2015, after being in a coma for 20 days. He was coersed into trying drugs. I had no idea when I got the phone call that he had ever tried drugs. He refused to even take Advil.I miss my son terribably. I am in a group called The HEAT heroin education action team. We educate school kids and others on the evls and consequences of ever trying drugs. Using the stories of our sons and daughters and their deaths due to drugs.

Karen S

To my beautiful baby sister Haley. May you be free from life's struggles and dependency. It was devastating to see such an amazing young woman get caught up in such a cruel situation. She was strong, brave and honestly fighting for her life back. The chains of drug addiction can be unforgiving and she just couldn't set herself free. At the young age of just 21 she passed away and now lies in peace. I love you Haley and can now only dream of you sharing special moments with me. May your mind be still and your dependency be relieved. You have shown me the value of life and how to manifest its gifts daily. Thinking of you always.

Courtney

My biological dad died from HIV and a heroin overdose. I was luckily taken into a foster home at 2 months old and adopted. My dad died on the Vancouver Downtown Eastside. We didn’t have much of a relationship but I want to honour him. His name was Shawn. I actually overdosed on fentanyl earlier this month and thankfully I was saved by first responders with Naloxone. I’m dedicating my life to my biological dad and I’m getting help. I never want anyone to end up like him

Ryan

My beloved son, Justin, passed away November 1, 2019 from an accidental overdose. May you be at peace , love you forever.

Janice

Remembering always my beautiful son Matthew, who lost his battle Feb 4, 2012 I will love you until the end of time. Joshua 1.9 Indiana

Pam

Almost a year and a half ago, my dad, Arthur Elswic, passed away from a heroin overdose. I was 14. Lets work together, so people my age, younger, and older, are no longer affected by overdose. Save Lives.

Posted 31/08/2018

Megan

For each of you that this Epidemic has taken, gone too soon...today, tomorrow, forever...I Remember. With you is a piece of my heart, always.

Abby

I lost my sweet boy Andrew to an overdose on January 29 th 2012. I miss and love him everyday. The pain never goes away

Posted 31/08/2018

Chris

Our sweet son Jared. Oh how we miss you 💜

Brooke

Dear Peter, Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of you. I see you when I look at the ocean and nature, but I also think of you whenever I think about overdose. I have worked hard to do my best to prevent anyone else from dying of an overdose, but never so hard as since we lost you. There is no one who has motivated me more than you. The tragic, premature loss of your your life, remains incomprehensible. I thank you for guiding your parents to find some happiness in Gloucester, and for inspiring me to work harder, and for reminding us all to live life to the fullest and take nothing for granted. Love, Jody

Jody

For Keith, and everyone who lost their battle to substance use. You are gone but not forgotten, and we will continue fighting for a world where help is sustainable and accessible regardless of race, income, and location.

Ayanna

I miss you everyday my beautiful son . You took a big part of me with you.... Port Chester, New York USA

Sage Stingone

In memory of Austin Levi Thackston. My precious beautiful son forever 28. May you rest in the arms of the angels until I arrive to hold you tight iny arms again. 💦💜🙏

Sandra

RIP James Pinka! I miss you everyday! And will never forget you and will always keep your memory alive and honor your life that was taken too soon by this terminal disease of addiction. No more suffering for you my friend. I hope you are flying high with the Creator! Fly on my friend, until we meet again... ?❤

Sarah

To my Nephew Michael Hart I will never forget you I love you so much your always in my heart and mind you were a great guy I miss you every single day I wish that day never happened you will always be my Michael man xoxo love aunt Marie ❤️ 💙 ♥️

Marie

Christian Jack had a laugh full of life, yet struggled with anxiety and depression. He was only 21 when he passed from overdose on xanax unknowingly pressed with fentanyl. He will live on as a loving son, brother, grandson, cousin, nephew, and friend. He gave the best hugs and wrote the best cards. He had a big heart and loved deeply. "God has you in Heaven, but I have you in my heart". We love and miss you, waiting on the day we meet again.

Christian Jack

To my son, Rusty-James Parker, who died of a heroin overdose on May 29, 2016. You may have lost your battle, but I will keep fighting for you. This one's for you, Bug! Lotsa, Mom

Camelia

We lost our daughter October of 2016, it hurts so bad today just like it was yesterday. With a smile that could light up the night and a sense of humor that could lift you up no matter how bad your mood was, 28 years is just not enough. She was strong smart and was always there for her family. Her son was every thing to her. She made a bad choice, we all do. Unfortunitly just one more time, just one more time cost her, her life. If you have some loved one that is an addict, never give up on them, let them know you care and most of all let them know you love them.

Dennis

WE LOST A GRANDDAUGHTER IN JANUARY TO HEROIN ADDICTION SHE WAS 26 LEFT BEHIND A BEAUTIFUL 6 YRS OLD DAUGHTER WHO LOVED HER VERY MUCH THANKFULLY WE ARE RAISING HER DAUGHTER A CONSTANT REMINDER OF WHAT ADDICTION CAN TAKE AWAY FROM FAMILYS

Posted 27/08/2018

MARTY

Our beautiful daughter, sister, mother, neice, granddaughter, friend. Paige Lorraine Love Feb. 19, 1988-July 4, 2015❤️ Williamsport, Pa

Denise

Dear Anthony , i miss you so much, not a day goes by that i'm not thinking of you and the great times we had together . You may not be here with me but the memories i have with you will never go away ....love & miss you

Posted 07/03/2019

Dad

My life, my world, my 1st born baby boy died from Fentanyl poisoning. There is an ongoing criminal investigation in Wisconsin where I live to arrest and charge the dealer with murder! I am fighting to legalize Fentanyl test strips in Wisconsin so that it will save countless lives, and families from having to go through what I am. The technology is there. Legalizing it in every state is the goal. There is no benefit from not legalizing it. My son would be alive today had he known. Austin Belling 02/12/93-09/27-21 (forever 28). My son was battling mental health illness and the medication he was on was not helping, which he expressed over and over again to his doctors. He in turn started self medicating. I do not want my son's life to be in vain. I do not want another mother to have to feel this pain. I am broken. Thank you for your time in reading this.

Daeni

To my beautiful baby sister Alexis (4-13-2002 - 7-8-21) Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, I miss you more then words could explain. You were the best little sister a big sister could ever have! I want to make your memory live on and let everyone know what a beautiful person you were, You were so thoughtful, loving and caring. Your son will always be reminded who mommy is and how much you loved him. Along with my kids will always know who auntie was and how Much you loved them also. Your smile could light up the darkest room and your laugh at was contagious. Heaven is lucky to have a beautiful person like you. I love you so much sissy and can’t wait to see you again some day. #LLL

Destiny

Gone but not forgotten. You did not die in vain Bobby! Special things coming up to keep your memory alive and help others! Love you son and miss you everyday. Dad

Posted 31/08/2018

Rob Merritt

My beautiful daughter Alissa Marie Hale overdosed on May 23, 2017, she was 21 years old, I miss her dearly as does my family. Rest in peace baby girl, I love you. Mattituck, by 11952

Michele

To the precious lives lost we remember you with fondness in our hearts Special lives, precious memories xxx Posted 30/08/2019

Leanne

My son struggled with addiction for over 20 years. He was a highly sensitive, gentle soul and suffered mental health issues. He was very smart, but was not motivated for any type of work. He lost his battle on July 23rd, 2017. All a parent wants for their child is to find happiness. I pray that now, he is free and happy. I will never stop loving him. Colorado, United States

Judy

My son Aaron died from an overdose of Heroin August 11, 2013. I miss him more than I can express. He was only 23 years old, way too young. I miss his smile, his laugh, his hugs. He was such a great guy, so many people loved him. He was so much more than a heroin addict - he was a son, a father, a brother, a friend. He loved baseball, and gummy bears, but he loved his son Cody the most. I am now raising Cody and pray that I can help Cody know who his daddy was, he is to young to remember him. So sad.

Barbara

Dear Lucas, Not a day, and rarely a minute passes by that I do not think about you. You were an old soul, and dear friend to many, including myself. Your talent was astounding, your intelligence amazing. You had a beautiful mind, and were a quality person in this dreadfully sad life. You were devastated at your losses, yet were in recovery. You made peace with everyone, and examined your life. You were removed from the methadone program after being suddenly laid off from your job,losing your apartment, getting your heart broken, losing your baby and detoxed rapidly from a very high dose. It became clear to you that the clinic had no intention or incentive to “help you with rehab”, or detox you safely when you could no longer afford it either. You rose to the occasion of detoxing like a very brave man, and had hopes for your life. You were doing so well, it was a surprise that they say you died of an accidental combination drug overdose. You were a sensitive person, loving others deeply; and feeling pain unbearably. I am so grateful at the month we spent together last fall, and that you are in heaven with your only true father. 33 years seems too short. I am so sad I do not know if I can get through this. So very sad that you died alone (it appears) and that those around you were too chicken to get help when you needed it. I hope I can go on to live out your memory. You nieces and sisters miss you terribly. You had a sparkle in your eye and a spring in your step. I feel so lost sometimes. I loved every part of you, even though you struggled so much devastation. I am so sorry that it began to seem like the same old story, when you were trying to tell us how stressed out and depressed you were. I would give up everything material to be around you now, even though you wanted for me to keep my home, or move closer to you; which we were working on. Wish I would have gotten you back home from Colorado sooner. Did not think you would be coming home this way. Love you always and forever…Momma

Momma

To my friend Saurav and Puskar
God Bless you wherever you are

Sydney/Australia

NIkrant

Shenandoah Rose Kearney, you were not just my girlfriend, but my true soulmate. When we first met, I had just lost my mom and the first thing I said to you after we both realized how much we loved and cared for each other was how you literally saved my life without even knowing...but I couldn't save you and it kills me more and more each day! And for that I am so very sorry. Today makes a full year since you were taken away so soon and it's not getting any easier only worse. The pain of losing you is something that I endure day in and day out. I'm so afraid that I will start to forget us, our hopes and dreams and the beautiful future we were planning so I welcome the pain of losing you because as long as it is there I know you are there. I will forever love you babygirl, I miss you so much my heart hurts. Rest In Paradise my angel, until we meet again I know you will be right by my side watching over me. I love you much more than any words could possibly say. See you soon babygirl. Posted 11/04/2019

Curtis Propst

For my brother Alan Patrick Cooray who died from an overdose 9th July 2013. A year has passed but not the pain. R.I.P we all miss you

Christina

I lost my precious baby brother last Friday on 8/5/16 to an overdose. He was a beautiful soul. He was clean for 28 months . In the end the disease won and he lost the battle. Rest in the sweetest of peace My Angel. JOSEPH GAGNON 11/13/79 ~ 8/5/16 ♡ I will Never forget you , You will always live in my heart. ♡ Your Sister "Gecky"

Jessica

My husband, Tim, overdosed right in front of my eyes and I had no idea. He went to bed and never woke up. I will never ever forget him. He had a huge heart, was so caring & thoughtful! I will never forget him! ❤️ Posted 01/09/2019

Leslie

With You, Went So Much Of Me... Shaun David Collins~2-8-81--8-16-07 Lois Jean Collins~2-17-56--8-21-09 Troy Alan Collins~2-16-88--6-6-17 ~~Losing all 3 of you has been unbearable. There are times that neither of us know how or if we will make it another minute, but we do it for you. The only peace we get is knowing that you are FREE from the pain & heartache of addiction. We will spend our lives missing you! Until We Meet Again... Hagerstown, IN USA

Robyn Richardson & Kayla Collins

In memory of my beautiful son, Kenneth Charles Grym whos passed away January 8, 2010 of a heroin overdose. Rest peacefully my prince... All my Love, All my life....

Kelly

I am a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant. My tribute is to everyone struggling with a substance use disorder. Also, those who had loved ones pass away...you are in my prayers on thus day.

Donyale

Tyler James Naso 7/24/91-9/24/16 Died too young! Tyler was found by his cousins in a hotel room the morning of his big brother's (my oldest son's) wedding. He had a bright smile and sparkling eyes, but could never seem to find his way. Each day without him seems like a thousand yet it seems like yesterday that he died. I love when people talk about Tyler to me, but it does make me sad. We miss him immensely, but we are so grateful for 25 years of so many wonderful memories and times together. It doesn't matter how many times we tell them drugs lead ultimately to death they never believe it will happen to them. Rest in Peace my precious son, and may others live because you have died. Love, Mom

Sandi

December 5th 2015 I lost my son to an overdose. Please don't use drugs. It is devastating to people who love you.

Kristi

R.I.P Donald"Jaime " There's NoT a day goes by that I don't think of you☆love&miss ya Jaime..♡ Nicole

Indianapolis

Nicole

Mark- You will be forever loved and forever missed! There isn’t a day that passes that we don’t all think of you. Keep guiding us and watching over us. I love you big brother! 💕💛

Mark

It's been a hard long road the past couple of years. That voice never leaves my head. I know you saved me, but sadly couldn't save yourself. I know you are happy, I hear that laugh every once and awhile. I just hope people can open their eyes sooner than later. This is a disease and I thank you Tyler, that I am two years sober today and alive. I miss every bit of you, but knowing you are still by my side puts my troubles at ease. I pray for the Harms family that one day they find peace in such a tragedy. I will treasure every memory I had with you. One day we will meet again, and until that day know I love you. ♥️

Luis

Josh Pierce, age 27, was born in August 1986 and transitioned in April 2014 as the result of heroin toxicity. Josh is my only child and I will always long for his warm hearted touch, deep conversations, beautiful smile, infectious laugh, and great big bear hugs. He was an intelligent man with a variety of interests and hobbies. He had a witty sense of humor and could make me laugh regardless of how I felt. Josh was highly creative and seemed to be able to accomplish whatever he put his mind to.Throughout his shortened journey his fearless and passionate personality seemed to drive him to excel but that drive also steered him towards making a lot of bad decisions that involved experimenting with alcohol and drugs at a young age. Grieving the loss of a child, at any age, is one of life’s toughest journeys but grieving the loss of an only child is beyond my comprehension. I can only hope and pray that the lives lived and lost to this disease are “testament to a higher cause all for the greatest good of the many”. Josh, you are always on my mind, in my heart and in my soul. I love you forever and always to infinity and beyond ~Mom

Mom

My big brother and best friend I love more than words can say I miss you more with every passing day.. You left me on this world alone I just wish you would have stayed home.. Your death was unexpected and truly unjust But it will not be in vain and that you can trust.. Rest easy and stay by my side and visit in my dreams Ryan Shawn Ouelette Jan 13/1983-May 27/2012 Forever young

Rena ouelette

Dear Tony, We only knew you for a short time, but you soon became one of our closest friends. You were an integral part of our small community, touching all with your spirit and the way you faced lifes adversities. If only someone knew you were lying there in need, holding on to life stubornly in true Tony style right to the very end. Your death touched everyone in town deeply and no-one will ever be able to fill your shoe. It's always the good ones. Love always, C and C

Chris and Carley

My name is Julian Denny. I am a 27-year old male, with 15 months of sobriety, for the first time in my life. I am here to remember my two friends, Ty and Austin. One from Heroin and the other from Benzos. Me, I have had Narcan used on me and came back angry because they brought me back. I was such a numb fool. I had my heart stop once at 16 from a DXM OD and ever since that day...I couldn't find "Real Peace". With the help of MN Adult and Teen Challenge, I am turning my life around by digging deep into my mind and dealing with core issues. I have been working with a prevention group called Know The Truth. We are given the opportunity to go into schools and tell our stories of addiction to students. I am grateful for the opportunity to reach even one teenager, to prevent one more sad story from happening. I am grateful for another chance at life.

Julian

To the 19 year old client who did not recognize his behaviors as problematic and overdosed a few weeks after leaving treatment against medical advice.

Detroit, MI

Substance Use Disorder Therapist

In Memory of my dear son John, 2/10/93-9/17/17. You are my sweet Angel now. I will ALWAYS admire your strength as you fought so hard everyday to beat the horrific disease of addiction. You always made me proud. I so wish I could have done something to keep you here!! I love & miss you so deeply!! I know you are at peace with God now. Love you my baby boy. Posted 27/08/2018

Diane

R.I.P to my awesome uncle matthew. he was an amazing person an we all miss you from the botto of our hearts . fly high free bird Posted 05/04/2019

brandon

On March 21, 2017 we lost our beautiful boy Nicholas Tupper to an accidental overdose of fentanyl and heroin. Nicky battled this disease for over 12 years and the only comfort we take now is he no longer fights that daily demon and darkness. Nick had a beautiful and kind heart. Even on the worst days he would reach out to let me know he loved me, reach out to others and try to lift them up. Playing his guitar, writing music and singing were his passion and healing. He loved with all of his being.
My son never told me that he wanted to grow up and be an addict. I told him daily that I believed and he needed too as well. Nicky, my heart is forever empty, I miss your smile, your laughter, your hugs. Let others hear the message that they need to continue to believe!
I love you, today, tomorrow and forever Mommy

Stuart, FL, USA

Robin

International Overdose Awareness Day: 31st August

International Overdose Awareness Day

Time to Remember. Time to Act.

Get involved

Campaign resources

Remember a lost loved one

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Tributes to lost loved ones

Posted 31/08/2018

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Posted 27/08/2018

Posted 31/08/2018

The overdose epidemic is everyone's problem, but it's being left to a small group to step up.