By Tanvi Narava, Piscataway High School Senior
After almost losing a loved one to an overdose, I recognized the lack of awareness of how to intervene in an opioid overdose. After talking with local emergency rescue squad members in Middlesex County, who had emphasized their concern about the lack of Narcan in community members’ homes, I knew it was time to take action.
After being a Girl Scout for over 10 years, earning both my bronze and silver award, I knew the Gold Award Service Project was the perfect opportunity to take action for my community.
Girl Scout Gold Award Project: “Renew You Embrace You”
My Girl Scout Gold Award Project, “Renew You Embrace You”, focuses on spreading the knowledge of what to do in emergencies regarding overdoses and working toward harm reduction by informative presentations on overdoses and substance use disorders.
As drugs and substances become more prevalent amongst young adults and teenagers, I aim to spread this valuable information in different environments such as at schools, community centers, libraries, etc. Through my project, I hope to eventually reach a global audience, educating those beyond this country.
Possessing Narcan and knowing how to properly use it can save a life and I want to make everyone life savers.
International Overdose Awareness Day Ceremony in Piscataway
The culmination of my project is organizing and implementing a Ceremony for International Overdose Awareness Day. It is a day to honor the lives of loved ones who were lost to overdose.
In partnership with the Coalition for Healthy Communities from Wellspring and Piscataway Township, the ceremony will include local resources, Narcan distribution and guest speakers to share messages of remembrance and hope. We will also display purple and white flags to remember those who lost their life due to a drug overdose.
The event will be at Columbus Park Extension in Piscataway on August 15, 2024, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm.
Such an interesting read! Can’t wait for the Overdose Awareness Day ceremony!!
Such an awesome initiative! So happy this young lady is bringing attention to this important issue. Good work