ADVOCATING for International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, Primary Care Connect will host its second tribute lunch and memorial event on Wednesday, August 28, marking a significant effort to honour lives lost to overdose and support those impacted. This year’s theme, ‘Together We Can,’ highlights the importance of coming together to address the overdose crisis.
The latest Annual Overdose Report (2023) reveals alarming statistics: one Australian dies from an overdose every four hours, with over 37,000 lives lost since 2001. Drug overdose is a leading cause of death for Australians under 50, and opioids are involved in nearly 46 percent of these tragedies.
Trish Quibell, CEO of Primary Care Connect, emphasises the need for comprehensive education and reduced stigma.
“…[it] is clear that the stigma surrounding addiction and overdose is misguided and painful, and addiction and overdose do not discriminate. Primary Care Connect is dedicated to raising awareness about addiction, and in providing programs, services and resources that help support those who may be abusing substances or suffering from addiction…and [for] their families and loved ones who are providing support.”
Inviting community members, health care professionals and all concerned individuals to participate, the event will serve as a supportive and compassionate space for sharing experiences and finding solace.
The Primary Care Connect tribute lunch and memorial event will take place on Wednesday, August 28 at Primary Care Connect, 399 Wyndham Street, Shepparton from 11:30am-2:30pm.
