Dear ,
As we enter this Holiday season, let’s never forget the foundation of our endeavors being the loss and loving memory of our loved ones; and remind ourselves of the importance of our combined efforts and the need for a continuing and aggressive nationwide awareness campaign surrounding illicit
fentanyl.
We know “fentanyl changes everything” and “but for fentanyl,” our loved ones would still be here. The danger from this poison’s illegal distribution sadly continues and, more tragically, continues to be an issue that many are unaware exists.
Knowledge is power, and that knowledge gained through awareness campaigns will most effectively reduce the number of deaths that continue to escalate.
In looking at our most vulnerable population being affected by this poison, we can look to the State
of Arizona for what would seemingly be proof of awareness helping reduce these deaths.
ARIZONA PEDIATRIC FATALITY REPORT
From 2020-2021 a 23% reduction in deaths involving victims aged 17 and under was experienced.
2020 – 57 deaths
2021 – 44 deaths
We know illicit fentanyl’s illegal distribution has not reduced, as evidenced by law enforcement seizures that continue to rise, showing the product is readily available. So how did a reduction in deaths in this age category occur? We can only surmise awareness of its existence and its deadly potential.
VOID has continued to focus its immediate efforts on our schools, hoping that “knowledge” will empower this segment of our population to understand the immediate risks and avoid being exposed to it.
