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Black Balloon day commemorates those lost to Vancouver Island’s toxic drug crisis

On March 6, black balloons will be displayed by people from across Vancouver Island and around the world in remembrance of people who have lost their lives due to drug toxicity and other substance-related harms.
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Campbell River will be taking part in this year’s Black Balloon Day on March 6, commemorating the 26 people who died due to toxic drugs in Campbell River, as well as the thousands who have died around the province. (file photo)

On March 6, black balloons will be displayed by people from across Vancouver Island and around the world in remembrance of people who have lost their lives due to drug toxicity and other substance-related harms.

Black Balloon Day “provides an opportunity for our community to come together to recognize the people who were lost to this public health crisis and support their friends and loved ones who are grieving,” according to the Campbell River Community Action Team.

“Shame and stigma around substance use often make it hard for loved ones to grieve publicly for their lost family and friends,” said CAT Coordinator Gwen Donaldson. “Shame and stigma around substance use also make it hard for people struggling to ask their community for help, putting them at greater risk of experiencing a drug poisoning. We need to recognize that many people struggle with substance use and that many people have lost loved ones to this public health emergency.

“The more we are able to work together to meet people where they are, and accept them as they are, the more we will be able to work together to create positive change in our community.”

People are asked to look out for the black balloons on Sunday, both in the community and online.

“Black Balloons represent the lives lost to substance use,” said community advocate Lori Fitzgerald. “By taking part and displaying a balloon, it shows solidarity, connection, and compassion for our community, and those in it who struggle with substance use, or have lost their lives. Substance use doesn’t discriminate; so, we all need to come together to support one another.”

Please be mindful of the environment by appropriately disposing of balloons, and please do not release any balloons into the atmosphere.

The Community Action Team has a list of resources for people who are either using drugs or know someone who is. The list is available on their website.

RELATED: 26 toxic drug deaths: 26 parents, 26 cousins, 26 coworkers, 26 friends

Canadian drug makers hit with $1.1B suit for pushing opioids despite risks



marc.kitteringham@campbellrivermirror.com

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Marc Kitteringham

About the Author: Marc Kitteringham

I joined Campbell River Mirror in early 2020, writing about the environment, housing, local government and more.
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