International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest 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 your own International Overdose Awareness Day event or activity, or attending one, is a powerful way to stand together to remember people who have lost their lives to overdose.

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

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Tributes to lost loved ones

Monique. I love you and will never forget you. I hope you are free and at peace. Greg X

Greg

In loving memory of my son Jordan Kyle Hodges July 31/92- March 10/19 who lost his battle to mental health issues and fentanyl overdose. Jordan fought so hard to battle all his demons of homelessness, depression, schizophrenia and drugs but in the end they were all just too much for him. You're at peace now my son and I love you so much and my heart aches and misses you terribly everyday. At times it's so unbearable but I wouldnt want you to keep suffering everyday the way you did. You were so kind to everyone and had nothing but whatever you had you would give it to someone else if they needed it. You're surrounded by so much love in the Lords kingdom and I will wait until it's my turn where i will be with you again someday my son. I LOVE YOU! Posted 02/09/2019

Angelique Chasse

In tribute to my son, Charles Michael Hill who died of an accidental overdose on 10/08/15 to fentanyl prescribed by his physician to an addict. No words other than an awareness that addiction is a disease in the purest form. If I could offer any advice and reverse anything it would be to show him even more love outwardly instead of shaming him for the disease . There is such a struggle with knowing the lines of tough love and enabling. I have the love I will always hold in my heart for a young fun loving just turned 21 year old that had struggled with this disease since an injury at 15, a long 6 year battle. I am blessed with the memories of getting to know him again with 112 days clean that like he said many times Mom you go to rehab and dies high came all too soon two weeks after getting out. The struggle is so strong .. he is free to fly high now and leaves a legacy of a good-hearted humble guy that had the looks, brains and nature to charm any mothers heart. Gone too soon but his love will always remain strong in my heart my life's forever changed. I love you my angel son, until we meet again.. forever 21.

Annette

This is to my dearest son Larry. On May 24th 2013 I got a call saying my son tried to take his life by a drug overdose. He is in a coma now with severe brain damage. He is 28 years old, has a wonderful family and a little girl who is 5. We are hoping for a miracle. That's all we have to hold on to.

Dena J.

always support for all people..

all

I lost my son Mauricio Daniel Andrade 11-1-97💜3-21-19 I would like to make drug overdose awareness in my city Posted 29/05/2019

Cecilia

My beautiful boy died on 5-6-2017 from an overdose. Lets increase awareness and end these unnecessary deaths!

Chase

My son Matt died of a overdose On 6/5/2017 he was only 29 Olean,newyork

Michael

We lost our precious 21-year-old son, friend and brother three years ago to an accidental overdose. There is not a day that goes by that we don't think of our beautiful Shane Michael Gibson, with so much love in our hearts but our hearts are truly broken Shane touched so many people both in his life and in his passing. Now his sister and I, are holding the first overdose awareness walk in Durango. With only one week to prepare it is both overwhelming and exciting to bring people together to learn more about overdose and new hope with education and enlightenment May God always give us strength, faith, hope and love. Deb

Deb

In memory of my soul mate, my lover, my best friend, my protector, my husband Matthew Sutton...your forever struggle here on earth is over. You gave me the best 9 months here before you were taken ...sobriety, working a great program, taking meetings into facilities and sharing your message of hope with those who really related and whose lives you made a difference in. You got pancreatitis and the demon caught up and it took you without as much as a goodbye, I love you. We always dreamt of leaving this world like "The Notebook" but here I am standing in concrete shoes without you. Breathing, Smiling, Existing is so hard without you here. How lucky am I to have loved you for the rest of your lifetime and to have that "Once In A Bluemoon" kind of fairytale love story and everyone who came in contact with us saw it. You are the strongest man I ever knew and you fought harder than I have ever seen someone fight. Your heart filled a room, your laugh was completely contagious, & the way you loved me....I will never find someone who will love me like that. Our dreams are now my dreams and I will live everyday to make sure your death is not in vain. I am here to spread awareness to help the next sick and suffering addict. You would expect nothing less of me. You are resting and living in peace eternally and although I am feeling real selfish right now, and wanting you here...I must remember that it was always my wish for you to live in complete happiness, peace, & to suffer no more and it is now the way it is. I will love you MORE THAN EVERYTHING ON THIS EARTH AND INTO ETERNITY. REST IN PEACE MY BIG ANGEL! MATTHEW WILLIAM SUTTON 1/1/1978-5/19/2017.

Pasadena, Maryland

Jennifer Sutton

Jilisa, I now know what you meant about how you d never be able to live with out it! I to went through the battle and I keep fighting them everyday. I refuse to let them win and you help drive that. I love you and miss you so much. 8/29/2011

Sarah

Every day I wake up and remember that you're gone, but I won't let this heartache consume me. You taught me that family will always be there to catch me when I fall, and you were right. Your memory is alive in our hearts and we will carry you with us everywhere we go. Michael, I will miss your smile, your sincerity, and your kindness today and every day until we are together again in heaven. Love, Mo

Maureen

My angel my star Jen. Jen passed away on November 5, 2005. She died from drowning and multiple drug intoxication. She had a dumb accident because she was high and slipped in the bathtub and knocked herself out and drowned. You were my best friend, my daughter, my love. I will miss you forever.

Sandi Mc

I miss my cousin, best friend, Darci Smith everyday. She became free of the suffering and lost her battle on February 5th, 2013.

Brandy

My son, Calvin, lost his battle with his addiction and Changed Worlds 9/28/2016. He was 22 yrs old. Forever missed and Loved, Until We Meet Again!xxooxox

Lois

I lost my baby Brother on June 17, 2016 at the age of 23 to a heroin overdose. My heart is broken and my life is forever changed. My thoughts and prayers go out to those addicted, the families of those addicted, and those who have suffered a lose. I have cried everyday for the last 39 days and I wouldn't wish this on anyone!!! I can only hope to learn how to help others who are struggling. RIP Kenny Boy, forever family, always in our hearts♥

Crystal

Remembering my beautiful daughter Amanda Michelle Blankenship . Taken too soon from her family and friends because of a heroin overdose . Forever 19 . Rest In Peace my sweet daughter . Sandston

Michelle Traylor

My son, Jared, died July 2016 from an overdose. From day 1 he challenged us in so many ways and struggled more than half his life with addiction and anxiety. Yet he had such a sensitive side, with so much love for his family, especially his sister and daughter. He befriended many throughout his journey, as seen by attendees who paid their respects after his passing. Sobriety, though infrequent, brought out the very best in him and I cherish those times. There's a small bit of comfort knowing he's not struggling anymore and is flying free but it doesn't fill that empty feeling I have. Always remembered, always LOVED 💖 New Castle

Heidi

My Mother lost her battle to a narcotics addiction on November 4, 2013 at age 36. She left behind my dad, myself and my two younger sisters. I am 18 and they are 16 and 14. I remember that day like it was yesterday, the hurt, the pain, the guilt. I feel like I could have prevented it or something. I feel like it's my fault in a way. It seems like the pain will never go away. She will never get to see her children graduate highschool, get married or have children. There will always be a huge void in my heart that will never go away. R.I.P Lori Ann Parker. Sail on across the sky.

Shawna Parker

I lost my brother John Yost to a heroin overdose, March 12, 2009. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him. "I do this work to end the common thinking that addiction and overdose won't happen in your family. If it happened to my brother, it can happen to yours." My quote on the Stop Overdose IL fliers for the upcoming event on August 30, 2014. John was a very loving person who cared so much about us and didn't want to be a slave to this drug. He struggled for almost half of his life with his addiction. Going in and out of rehabs, jail and on the streets. Then just like most people who die from this, he used one last time. He was clean as far as we knew and died at 30 years old. It saddens me that we'll never get to see him get married or have kids or we'll never grow old together, but I know that he's at peace now. I can't imagine how horrible it was for him day in and day out to try and conquer it. In the end heroin won! We need people to get educated! I've met so many people in other organizations that have been through this or are going through it now. We need to get the people who it's not affecting educated. These are the ones that think, "Nope, it'll never be my kid". Look around, the kids who are dying are your cheerleaders, football, baseball, basketball players! It's no longer the face of the dirty junkie in the alley in downtown Chicago. It's our children who need the education but you the parent need to know about it first.

Jeannine Garriepy

Mark we miss you everyday. Heroin addiction was not who you were. You were a father who loved his children. A son who was loving, hilarious, not afraid to try anything, from climbing tall trees as a young boy and jumping ramps. As an adult you taught your son woodworking skills . You played ball, rode bikes and went out on the boat with your daughter and son. Good memories! I loved you then and I love you now my son. Mom

Mark

Today would've been your 30-th birthday. We only got to celebrate 27 birthdays together. In a few days it will be 3 years since you left us. It doesn't get any easier. We all miss you and love you very much. Happy Birthday Szymon. Love mum.

Iwona

R.I.P mother - Solange Waleska Aguila Romero 1960 - 1987.. I only wish my boys had a nan to be able to remember, a calm loving motherly voice that I imagine you had or even just to have a actual memory of you. You were so young, scared and trapped in a evil world. You made too many poor choices, which I only really understand now after making similar choices as a adult.But I changed for my children and am stronger for it now. Unfortunately it led you to be taken from me when I was only 2 - 1/2. I do understand and I do finally forgive you. Love always and forever, your daughter and two grandsons xox

Jess Mcc

Nicole Carey borned December 3rd 1990 passed June 10th 2016. Our life was not meant to be lived without you.

USA

Sonya Carey

My loving Brother John C Sweeney- 27 yrs young..died September 9 2012- Heroin with xanax - My brother you were the closest person to me. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you. I'm sorry I didn't love you for who you were, rather than what I wanted for you. You are the smartest, deepest person I have ever known. I know my brother your pain is over, god saved you from this life and pain. Until we meet again - I love you " my brother" save a place in heaven for me because I know you are there! "your sis" Feb 2 2013

Your sister

My mother and I had lost a spectacular human being on October 24, 2015. He was my brother and best friend and was my moms son. Finding him that afternoon was the hardest thing I will ever have to do because that means I never get to hear his voice or just watch an Eagles game with him. He'll always be with us and we love and miss him everyday. Rest in peace my angel Mitchell Gallenthin

Sarah & Linda

Missing our first-born son, Mitchell Craig, born April 15, 1988, whom we lost to a heroin overdose on June 11, 2010. Forever 22!! We will forever miss and mourn everything about him. He loved to work on cars, loved fashion, high-end hairstyles but his number one love was always ice hockey! He loved it ever since he was a very young boy. He never intended to forever alter our lives and we know that he would not have wished all this sadness for us. He taught us tolerance, compassion, patience, understanding, and most of all…unconditional love for him that will NEVER end! He will always remain in our hearts and in our minds till the end of our days. Love you so much, beloved son, adored grandson, brother to Jared, Sam and Jack, nephew, cousin and a devoted and true friend. Loving you, Mitchy!

Mom, Dad, Jared, Sam & Jack

Reno.... I miss you more than anyone could ever know. Your untimely passing is cemented in my heart. Your curiosity got the best of you and I couldn't stop you. Alcohol became your vice. It was your oxygen. My love couldn't make you stop. Your mind was tired. You were my baby for 20 short years. I love you, bambino.

TL Strongfeather

My son Justen Jesse Hummel passed away August 9,2014...everyday since then my life has changed , I miss him so much , I feel so lost , empty, nothing seems important anymore ..... I wish I could bring him back..... I always ask God to let me dream about him when I sleep .... I want to touch him , hear his laugh , see his smile , give him the biggest hug and never let go ..... this hurts my heart more than anything I have ever dealt with .... it literally aches.... I love and miss you Justen ... love " moms" ❤️

Louisville ky

Debbie hummel

I lost my son, and the world lost a wonderful young man and blues prodigy the night before his 29th birthday. He overdosed on heroin after not being able to sleep for 3 days, as he tried to recover from his addictions. I founded a non-profit in his name to let people know that his death was not a result of 'fun,' but of suffering. He was handsome, well-loved, successful and talented. I hoped his face would help reduce the stigma of addiction with a co-occurring mental disorder (bipolar disorder). Eight years later, and I miss him every day, as do so many others. I applaud this organization for their mission. Addiction is a disease, a serious one, that crosses every part of society. That more is not known or done is criminal. My heart breaks for anyone who has lost a brave, gentle soul like Sean. (www.seancostellofund.org)

Debbie

James Idzikowski 07/02/1976 - 12/08/2016. We will always love you and miss you Posted 20/06/2019

Elaine

Jon was the light of the room. He was always trying to make you smile. He had an amazing personality and cared about everyone. His presence is truly missed. He was a best friend to many.

Indianapolis

Kate Bell

Our time was cut short, and the demons won in the end. I pray everyday, that you've finally found the peace you we're searching for your whole life. I love you jesse. Galaxy x universe. Meet me in my dreams. I'll see you when I reach the other side of the stars baby.

Posted 08/08/2018

Sara

All the pain this life brought, all the struggle and hardship. You still managed to find joy. I now live by that virtue. You felt and understood beyond any human being I have ever known. Challenged me in ways unprecedented. You have absolutely blessed my life beyond measure. One year it’s been...through all the tears, and heartbreak, I have finally had the most profound revelation on my journey. To live!!! Live harder than ever, for the both of us. To appreciate and honor your life by waking every single day and smiling at the sky. Choosing to live in the light of all you gave me and the beauty of your life. I will always, and you will forever be missed, valued, loved, and appreciated my son. You are free my beautiful blue eyed boy. You soar so high. You deserve peace. You deserve to be acknowledged in every single beautiful moment. You are in everything. The tree limbs still carry your words in the wind, your presence in the warmth of the sun, the beauty in each sunrise/sunset, and in the butterflies dancing. You will always be the most treasured and precious gift. I love you Dev! ❤️🔥🦅

Adina

Timmy. I still think of you every single day. I'm finally learning to live without you but your death has completely changed me. I think of you several times every hour of the day. I miss you. Relationships are forever over. Your death was soooo destructive to so many. I wish you knew how loved and needed you were by everyone. You knew how I felt. I'm still sooo thankful for all those talks. It gives me some peace knowing that you knew what you meant to me. Your memory will never die. I love you. Fly free.

Newfield

Mary Wendling

Dearest life, How many days has passed since I learned of your death and lost my heart, Although I was not there or ever were we face to face, Love that we shared can't be replaced. I wish the moon could bring you back, That heroin took you, The odds were stacked, You'd been clean for some time, Maybe that's why you died, You left this earth, Memories replay being rebirthed How I wanted to be your wife Maybe in the next life Maybe then, it's all I can hope I wish you didn't leave this world Take my heart, keep it safe You were my light, This cuts deeper than any blade, You and I should have been forever Joe It's insane, Will time ever heal the pain? To all that read this, that struggle or feel alone, Please stay safe, know you're loved Fortuitous forsaken dope Posted 03/01/2020

Skye

In remembrance of my mother, Yvette Marie Fitzpatrick November 6, 1967 - April 4, 2011 Love, your daughter Posted 09/06/2019

Amy

To Travis Wilson We all prayed for your recovery and sadly now we pray for your peace. You are missed by your parents, sister and brother-in-law, nephew, niece, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbors, Layla and Moe. We just wish we you could have conquered this addiction. We are proud that you tried. 'Til we meet again, loving you.

Sue

To my sweet daughter, Elizabeth. Thank you for being part of my life for 23 beautiful years. Through all the joys, pains and struggles we always had a special bond. Rest in peace my sweet girl free from all your demons. I will miss your beautiful voice, bright smile and infectious laugh. May you sing with the angels and rest in Jesus' loving arms. All my love, Mommy. xoxo

Pittsburgh, PA

Cathy Delsardo

My dearest Matthew, my precious son, you are forever in my heart and soul. I only wish I was as good and loving as you were. I will see you when I get there, my baby boy. I will never forget you....never

Davenport, Iowa

Brenda Duffie

I miss you every second of everyday Luke Johnson forever 22 💔

Maureen

I lost my brother Josh on June 5th, 2017. My life will never be the same. There are no words to describe my feelings other than life shattering. I'm BROKEN without him, my heart HURTS soo bad with every single thought of him, my mind is never at rest. I want to do all I can to prevent another family from feeling the way mine does, this isn't fair.
R.I.P Joshua Scott Brown 8/6/1979-6/5/2017

rising sun

Julie Brown

Angela KUNTA Jones Bryant 6/21/19.....my babygirl, the sister I never had. I can't shake the sadness, the loss....the anger. I miss your face your smile your laughter that filled a room. Ang baby my clean date 7/12/19 part of my sobriety is a tribute to you. My heart will never be the same for I carry your heart in mine. I love you Posted 16/08/2019

Leslie Grogan

In loving memory of my sister Rachel Irene “bean” Salmon who passed away from an overdose on July 17 2019. You will always be my sister and I will carry you In my heart. I am sorry I couldn’t save you and show you how much you were loved. You were sweet , kind , funny , smart , talented and a very special soul. My heart is broken that you are gone and we won’t grow old together. I know you are at peace from your struggles. I love you very much and miss you terribly. Posted 20/08/2019

Melanie Chud

My beloved son, Alexander J. Fosso, passed 12/12/11 from an accidental overdose of Methodone and Xanax. Forever 22 and loved. Alex's Mom, Janice

Janice

John Joseph Hurtuk IV 10/10/90-06/27/16 25 years 8 months 17 days Son, brother, uncle, friend. An amazing worker, fisherman to be exact. He was going on back to back trips so he could stay clean, bringing in thousands of dollars and still managed to stay sober. Until that one day that he decided one more time would be okay, it wasn't okay. My first forever friend was taken away by heroin, he fought so hard to get clean, to stay clean. Remember that one last time could be your last time. Forever missed, forever loved, never forgotten. I love you John I hope your story can help to save a life, I won't let your death be in vain.

Erica

Johnny, I miss you a lot. When me and the guys hang out I always feel like we're missing our forth, you. I think about you a lot. It's been just under 2 months since you've passed. You keep sending me signs and I'm finally convinced you're still with me. We all love you so much.

Eric

My son Clifford John Brooks overdosed and died February 26, 2017. Clifford died from multiple Drug Intoxication. Clifford was cherished by his family and loved by many friends and acquaintances because he just had that kind of personality. In CA we have very limited help for addicts aside from detox only programs. ACTION family counseling was the only facility that accepted our HMO. This is ridiculous. We have a drug epidemic in this country and we need to put out awareness about drug abuse as much as we’ve tried to educate people about the dangers of smoking. We will never ever recover from Cliffords senseless death. When will this country wake up and stand up and start saying No we’ve had enough! The joke about “We can find the one fruit fly in 100 tons of fruit but we can’t find the tons of dope that pours into this country” isn’t a joke. Somebody’s pockets are bursting at the seams. Posted 22/05/2019

Leslie Brook

My nephew James L. lost his battle with addiction, on November 11, 2017. He used fentanyl laced heroin and died. He was my buddy and we all miss him very much. He fought a good fight and our hearts are forever broken. He enjoyed fishing, sports and of course the Philadelphia Eagles. He also was attached to Mickey Mouse. We all hope the pain is gone and his spirit is free. Our lives will forever be different without him.

Posted 29/07/2018

Joanie

In my sister's memory. May her children never forget her love and smile Posted 26/08/2018

Maria