Expert Insights
Data shows that from 2019 to 2021, the number of kids between the ages of 14 and 18 who died from accidental overdose increased over 65%. That number was what prompted two mothers – who are also school board members – to create a new program in Virginia Beach City Public Schools that hopes to get kids thinking and talking about the dangers of drug use.
Carolyn Weems and Shannon Doyle visited several different classrooms over a one week period, telling students the heart wrenching tales of losing their daughters to accidental overdoses. Shannon’s daughter had just celebrated her 16th birthday when she overdosed on fentanyl and died in her sleep. Carolyn’s daughter was 21 when suffered a fatal overdose after injecting heroin.
The mothers hope that, by telling their daughter’s stories, they can save lives and create something positive out of such a tragic loss.
~ Rita Milios
Resources
- City of Virginia Beach. (2017). Opioid Prevention, Treatment & Recovery.
- Conduent Health Communities Institute. (2022). Community Indicators Dashboard: Greater Hampton Roads.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Substance Use in Women Research Report. Sex and Gender Differences in Substance Use.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.) What Does the Affordable Care Act Mean for Behavioral Health?
