I'm a Mom in recovery 17 years now. I lost my 36 year old son Matthew to an overdose of fentanyl 8 months ago. Nothing could ever prepare me for the agonizing grief I am going thru. His son Kyle is now fatherless. His sister Melyssa is devestated an only going thru the motions because she has a 1 yr old. She tells me if it wasn't for her son she'd kill herself. If it wasn't for her an my grandsons I would do the same thing. Nothing will ever be the same. I'm in therapy, I talk with other moms an every 1 of them have told me it doesn't get better. The miracle is I haven't used. I have no desire to use. I can be there for my daughter and grandsons like they are there for me. I'm praying for something to be done to stop this deadly epidemic because we are losing a whole generation. Nothing can bring back my son but I do everything in my power to share our story of my son dying on our bathroom floor while myself an his son gave him CPR. Maybe it will save 1 life so his won't be in vain. Ft Pierce FL USA

My beautiful son Brett this should never have happened your strength will never be forgotten..I miss you more than words can say.. I love you so very much Mum Xx

Walking in memory of my two nephews, Thad and Andrew lost to overdose, as well as all of those families that have suffered loss. While we remember those we have lost we also want to celebrate and honor those in Recovery!

R.I.P. Patrick H. Coyle 9/15/66-1/18/2008 Gone but never forgotten! We love & miss you everyday

Remembering my son, Valley.. Heroin discovered him in January of 2015 and took him from us on February 25, 2015... Forever 22 years, 2 months, 2 days old.. Forever in our hearts.. Our fight - "Valley's Vine; Stay Untangled from Heroin's Poison"

West Virginia

Quinny twinny, my dearest best friend and sister. I'm so sorry I couldn't save you from this evil disease. I know now you are not suffering, you are pain free in the loving safe arms of God. For you Quinn, I will bring awareness all around the world that drug addiction/overdose is very real and that we can prevent it. You always had the biggest heart sissy and now I'll be doing this for you. You are missed more everyday. Until that day I see you again, just know I love you so much!!! Love, Kay <3

In honor of my beautiful, sweet and sensitive son, Mitchell. My son passed away from an overdose at the young age of 22. My life is forever altered but I am trying to find ways to go on, not without him, but with him in my heart and as my inspiration forever. My dear boy, Dad, Jared, Sam and Jack all miss you but find it too hard to talk about it. I will never stop talking about you, never stop sharing about you. In my heart I believe life was never going to get any easier for you. I am sorry my dear. We need to do a better job with our youth, addictive illness, and mental illness. You tried my boy, you tried to hang in there but it was not meant to be. I miss you every single moment of every day. It has now been three years, as of 6/11/13. It seems like yesterday. Forever loving you, my son, Mitchy.

My beautiful friend Simone another year has passed and i still miss you as much today as the day we lost you. I treasure the wonderful memories we shared but at the same time my heart breaks not having you here. Only those who have lost someone through overdose understand the pain thats felt by those left behind. When things get wobbly for me please stand by my side and give me the stregnth you gave me when you were here. I love you and miss you-lisa xxxx

Dawson Pettit- my beautiful 26 year old son was lost to an accidental heroin overdose on March 1, 2014- just 3 days out of rehab. I have spent the last 3 plus years since his death being an advocate for recovery,and learning about the disease of addiction. I serve on the Board of 2 non-profits in the addiction and recovery fields. I have served on Family panels, gone to every seminar, every training, every class,and every conference available to me and I tell Dawson's story as often as I can. NOT ONE MORE- my initial motto has morphed into HOPE in RECOVERY and by telling about my family's heartbreak I can only hope to help someone else from going down this mad spiral of opioid addiction that is claiming lives at an alarming rate. My tribute is to my son Dawson- a warm, loving, sensitive, animal loving son, brother, grandson, cousin, friend and best friend to his rescue dog Burly.

Mooresville, NC 28117

I lost my nephew to Heroin . He was 37. Gone way too soon!! We love you Joshua Scott Brown. You are missed!!!

Rising Sun, Mc

Cassidy Brianna Rachelle Seward 11/30/93 - 8/28/12 Forever young and beautiful. We love and miss our sunshine.

Every life is worth its full potential. Life is to short for an easy way out. Be stronger than the drugs, and see the true vision of your own project. Rip (Rene 12/06/2016)

This is for my beautiful daughter Amanda. She lost her battle July 22, 2015, after being clean and sober for more than 6 months. We are all so proud of her, but the struggle of addiction is a life long battle. She was a beautiful spirit who left her mark on this world. I am very Blessed and Honored to have been her mother. I know she is with me wherever I go, but until we are united together again, my heart has a hole that will never be filled. My love for you is ever lasting Amanda! Today, Tomorrow, and Forever......Mom

There by the grace of God go I. Recovering for 8 years and it's still a day by day struggle.
I dedicate this to Cory Monteith who lost his battle with his addiction in 2013. He was more than an actor. He used his celebrity to shed light on this cause as well as youth homelessness and raised money to help marginalized kids get out of their situations. He supported many causes Chrystalis helps people who have been addicted and are now recovering to find jobs give them the tools they need to heal themselves. Project Limelight help Candian youth find value in the arts instead of using the streets. Something good can come from his death and I will remind addicts that there is hope and there is help.

Goodyear Arizona

My jovial son Gary, You were so full of life and everyone around you felt the joy you carried. I still can't believe your gone from this earth. I love you more than words can say. I miss you more and more each and every day. I will carry you with me until I join you in heaven. Love, Mom Delaware

On August the 2nd, 2012, I lost my beautiful son David to a heroin od.  We found him on his bedroom floor, unresponsive, on July 31st.  After CPR he died on life support at Stony Brook Hospital, Long Island, New York.  After four years maybe the tears have dried up a bit, but the pain is worse everyday.  According to his friends, he had just started using.  He had no job and he had lost his driver's licence because he drove too fast too often.  He always lived on the edge - trying physical tricks that most people would be afraid of.  He had so many friends - they all would describe him as "someone to talk to because he was non judgemental"  He had sparkling brown eyes and the hugest smile.  He dearly loved his girlfriend Michelle.  I'm a nurse.  I don't know why I didn't see some change in him that indicated trouble, but of God am I paying for it now.  He had always spoken against heroin - I do't know what changed him.  But I am so sorry I was not able to help him.  It's been four years now since I  last heard his voice, saw his smile, Had one of his hugs.  His friends would laugh because no matter what he was doing, he would stop to kiss me good-by when I was going to work.  I miss him so much it hurts.  I love him so much it hurts.   I don't know why it was part of God's plan to take him from me, his Dad, his brother, Michelle and so many friends.  I want him back, and we all know that doesn't happen.  All I can do is hope I see him again some sweet day.  I love you my son.        Momma

My beautiful, sweet, loving partner of 4 years passed away from heroin overdose on the evening of new years day. He had gone to rehab and was doing so well for awhile I started to be able to somewhat trust him again. He overdosed in my car in a parking lot when I thought he had been on his way to work. Its been a month and I feel as though I will never be the same since he has left me here on earth. We had so many future plans together we did everything together and he was my true best friend and lover. I had tried to help him through his addiction the moment I found out but this devil drug has won the battle. I'm so sad some days I can barely take it. The fact I'll never be able to see hug kiss or touch him again hurts my heart and soul deeply. The only relief I have is knowing he's no longer suffering here and he's truly free and happy now. I know his beautiful soul is still around me and I will be with him again one day. I'll love him till the day I die. This hurts so bad. My heart is empty and broken I wanted to save you more than anything.

Justin Dean B. lost his battle on September 20, 2017. He was 25 years old. Walkertown, NC

I'm paying tribute to one of the most beautiful, gentle, kind and loving souls I have ever known. Todd Lescarbeau is and always will be my big brother, my best friend for 40 years, my protector, confedone and so much more! Todd was born on January 3rd, 1970, and one that day the sun rose, and everyday after he lived life to the fullest until the sun set on March 6th, 2012. He was a fun loving, protective and gentle Father, grand father, husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to all that he came in contact with. His addiction began like many others, with prescription drugs due to back problems and back surgeries over most of his life. He was a hard working man with integrity and loyalty to those who he loved and those who loved him. I will never forget the impact he had on this world, as he endured the struggle with his addiction that ultimately claimed his life! Rest In Paradise my beloved brother...Forever 42 ❤️

In remembrace of black my ride or die. Love you and miss you baby boy

Dayne, my brother & best friend. We miss you more than words can describe. I hope you've found peace wherever you may be. Miss and love you always..

Scott Henry Naumann ❤️ For ever!

St. Louis, MO

I'm sorry you were in pain, I forgive you for leaving me way to early in our life. I will always love you I hope your at rest. I will miss you, I know God will comfort me. And if you can please do. I will always love you.

In memory of the brightest star, kindest heart, strongest spirit I have ever known...my beautiful baby boy...RJ Boudreau Jr <3 9/18/1990-11/5/2012 I love you and miss you so much...life is so empty without you. Love, Mom

Edward passed away 8/9/2016, When you were born that was the happiest Day if my life. Watching you grow was so precious. You brought me so much joy words can't express it. I watched you grow from and infant to a handsome young man. You were such a loving and caring young man.  You always made me laugh and always had live in your heart. For others. Your death has brought me much sadness to me and your family.  U wish you has told me me you had a heroin addiction.  You were depressed and just rrues to solve the problem. Yourself. Your accidental death of overdose to heroin breaks my heart. I will always live u my son you brought we great joy. I pray u are at peace now and look forward to the Day when we will meet again and I can hold u so tight and never let u go. Rest now my sin be free and sing with the angels.

Today I honor my beautiful daughter Brooke. She was two days before her 18th Birthday when an overdose from Heroin. While she lay on  a dirty floor dying, others looked out for themselves and didn't call an ambulance until she was dead. I believe that the universe has a way of providing. It shows its' way in so many simple and beautiful way. I am faced with a decision. I can discuss with all of you how much I hate the man whose selfishness and addiction was so great that human life ceased to have meaning over his needs. I can share how much pain he has caused our family. We can perseverate around the decisions he made back in 2012, that not only took my daughter's life but also killed a piece of me alongside her on that dirty floor. Most of you would join in that pain and understand how I arrived at hate, I choose another path. I choose to honor the beautiful gift that was given to me April 29, 1994 and taking away April 28, 2012. A almost perfect circle of 18 years. Brooke was the embodiment of light in a dark world. She was wise beyond her years and often taught me the lessons of Grace and Love long before I understood the academics of adverse childhood experiences and trauma. In honor of Brooke I choose to find Beauty and Love where there should be Darkness and Pain. Each day I will share with you an experience of good, so that we may rejoice together in the glimmers of the Angels of light among us. In the end, Love is how true change happens.

To my #1, Ralph ...my son. You are loved and missed every day. The day of your birth, March 5, 1988. was the happiest day of my life. And the day you left this world, was my worst; May 27, 2012. My son, heaven gained a super excited angel. Till we meet again. Your Mom forever. I love you !!!!! oxox

Oh my Anthony, I am lost for words. Ur battle won u. I tried so hard to save u from yourself. I lost my life partner Anthony Russell, for 26 years, on July 20, 2017. He left me to live his own life, with his own rules, a new crowd of friends. The bad dirty things he done to me that I may never understand but I have been told that’s what addiction does. It controls the addict and they hurt their loved ones cuz of it. I’m struggling still with grief from our separation cuz u were in my life for such a long time. It’s like I lost my right arm. I lost my best friend, my life partner. Then the griief of u dying. Hurts so much to know that I fought so hard to help u and no matter how hard I fought I still couldn’t save u from yourself.its like the devil came in and tore u from our lives. The life u were living wasn’t living. I hope wherever u are u finally found peace and no stress with yourself. I can’t even fathom the lose yet. I just thought I would do this to help me with it built up inside of me to get it off my chest. I loved u when we started and I loved u for all those years. I will always love u. I always have, and I always will. U and I have a lot of Good memories in our years. I will not ever forget you. I have u still in our 2 daughters which I thankful for. They r having a very hard time without their dad. Until we meet again and I do hope we do. Bless ur soul. Love and miss u Anthony. I can’t believe ur really gone. Kent county, nb, canada

For my beautiful son Colin who passed on 2/23/2017 from a fentanyl overdose. Col, you were an amazing person who freely gave your love to everyone you held close. You could light up any room with your smile and win any debate with your never ending knowledge of everything. Your bear hugs were the stuff legends are made of. I will forever be fiercely proud of you and love you with everything I have.

Moscow/Pennsylvania, USA

My cousin Dawn & my nephew Coley. Forever in our hearts. Your pain became our sorrow when you left us. Thinking of you always. Love U 4ever & a day.

My kids lost their father on New Year's Day 2009. He was 32 and overdosed on prescription painkillers. Our beautiful daughters are now 19 and 17. He's missed so much and we hurt each and everyday. If you know anyone struggling with addiction...please help.

My precious son always in my heart passed away 11/06/2013 Forever 24 Osvaldo Perez Jr nickname is Turtle Mami love you to the moon and infinity Pinellas Park, FL Pinellas Park

I know lots of people who are missing you Salena....and wished I had been involed when you were struggling.  But your memory lives on, in my step daughter's heart.

My son Gary died of a heroin/fentenyl overdose on June 14, 2017. He is 30 years old. He worked as an RN and was well liked and loved by everyone. He was addicted to heroin for less than a year. Gary is an awesome son and big brother! He is a whiz at computers and video games. He is a bodybuilder and power lifter. Even his muscles had muscles!! He is on Instagram #mursemuscle. He's such a handsome cutie! I miss him more than I can ever tell you. He should never have died. This was not his destiny. The only good that has come out of all this is now at least you're free of this damned addiction that had a hold on you. I love you and miss you terribly Gary! Your Mom Kentucky

Bubby, it's been almost 6 years since that Halloween morning that you lost your battle with addiction. Feels like yesterday. You weren't just my brother, you were my best friend also. I miss you every single minute of every single day. Clint inman 10-31-2011 Muncie, Indiana USA

Adrian 10/30/88-08/10/17
We love you and miss you so much. You will be in our hearts forever. We will meet you in heaven.

Leitchfield, KY USA

In memory of the fine actor and good guy that Phillip Seymour Hoffman was. To everyone in his family, and to those with whom he was friends, my deep sympathy at your loss. It is a loss shared on a greater scale by many of his fans. May he rest in peace and may God hold him close.

I have had several family members die of an addiction.  I wish there was no stigma.  I wish there was more help.  I miss my cousin Dougie.  We use to talk almost every day.  He wanted a better life more than anything.  He tried several times but he kept getting pulled back into the realms of addiction. I hope he is at peace now.  My son is in recovery, I pray everyday for him.  He has almost 2 years sobriety, but it haunts me everyday.  He has overdosed before but thankfully survived.  Please keep our hearts open to those suffering.  Instead of judging we need to pray and help them.

Gabriel Stephan Rice 9/30/81-4/12/13
This boy! Oh my, how we loved him so!! Hilarious. Witty. Singer. Musician. But most importantly my son. Did you know he liked his ears rubbed? And his nicknane was "Charlie Brown"? So needless to say, even as a grown man, I rubbed his ears. Mom's can do stuff like that. And every time he was headed out the door, and after a quick ear rub, I'd wave him off and say "You be a good boy Charlie Brown." Gabriel always smilled that crooked smile at me, would wave, and say "I love you mom." He never lost his compassion or love for others. So giving in his nature. But he lost his life to an overdose. I'll never get over his death. But believe 100% I get him back on the other side of eternity. So, for now, I grieve with hope.

Louisville

My son Dylan Yates died of a Heroin overdose his first day out of a 30 day rehab. He will be forever 23. He was born October 18, 1990 and died May 8, 2014. He was a cancer survivor when he was a teenager. He loved life and the outdoors. He was creative to a fault. We will miss him forever and never stop trying to help those that are in his shoes and change the way the world views addiction.

Alex Michael Gillen 8-4-88 to 12-12-14
Like so many others, our beloved child was taken from us far too soon. His light shines brightly forever in out hearts. At his core he was a good man. In reflection, we now understand that our son’s suffering was real. Throughout his short but meaningful life, he demonstrated a strong sense of genuine love. People are imperfect. We are comforted in knowing that on that day, at that moment…he was perfect in Gods eyes and no longer needed this world.

Carmel Indiana

To my little brother, Joey. My best friend, my guardian angel. Love you forever little bro.

Green, OH

To my soul mate Neil Waters who lost his battle with addiction on 14th April 2017. Missing you so very much. Love always. Shar xx

Wisbech Cambridgeshire uk

I miss my son Bobby so much. He passed away on August 6, 2011 from an accidental prescription drug overdose. He was on pain meds and took other pills with them. He was 28 years old. The loss of Bobby has left a big gapping hole in our family. He had a son who has had to grow up without his father. A sister who misses him and many family and friends. He had such a beautiful heart and smile. I love you Bobby ❤️

To my sister and her 3 sons you all left me because of drugs. I was so made at God and you when you left, could not understand why he would take all of you.Josh my sisters youngest son was murdered because of drugs 12 years ago he was only 25 and my sister shortly after she couldn't fight her demons anymore.I almost gave up when you both left me still fighting the depression and health problems it caused then sept. 2014 drugs took your other 2 boys the holidays are coming i miss you all so much i will always love all of you more then you will every know.I still blame myself some how thinking i could save all of you if i had been a better sister,if i had been a better aunt if i would of spent more time with you.i think all of us feel that when you loose some one we love.I will smile and try to live me life happy for all of you because i know thats what you would want.Till we meet again remember how much i love all of you and miss you so much your sister and aunt Peggy Cincinnati Ohio

It's only been 3 weeks since you left us and we struggle with the questions and emptiness. We love and miss you to the moon and back baby. You are forever 22. We promise to never forget you. Your legacy lives on in your beautiful daughter. Please surround us with your love and be happy until we meet again. Love, Momma, Doug, Amber, Dylan and Madison, Nana and Papa and Layla Xoxoxo

To a dear friend Arron Lloyd Seals, 1989-2011, who lost his battle to a multiple drug overdose, including a fatal dose of Dilaudid. I know it was so hard for you after losing your father, your rock. We all watched in pain as you slowly fell apart right before our eyes. I regret every day not trying to help you more with your many addictions, but losing you helped us all learn that we must never again sit idly by and I promise that I never again will. And to Zach Beauregard, who we’re so lucky to still have with us today after three drug overdoses that he was saved from. Zach, heroin had you in its grip for a long time and I am so happy and proud that you are on the road to recovery. I can’t imagine how much you struggle each day not to go back down that long, dark road. Just know that you are so blessed to still be with us and know that we are so proud of you!

My nephew Joseph passed away on 7/5/16 from a heroin overdose in Chicago, IL. He was 27, we miss him and mourn him.

My beloved Christopher. How I miss you. I found you August 3, 2011. My last words to you is that I love you. I so wish I would not have seen what I have seen. My baby, gone. You were alone. Always know I love you more than love itself. You were and are my little Soul Mate. My soul will always be missing here, because it needs you. My Son Christopher died 08/02/2011. Alcohol OD. His blood alcohol level was .314. I am praying he felt no pain, just fell asleep. He was an alcoholic at the tender age of 19. Died at 22. Christopher Joseph Engen. Born 12/24/1988. Died 08/02/2011. I died too. God help us all.

Teddy "bear" Storey you will never be forgotten Mayfield, Ohio