The Town Herald - Again

 The 'opioid crisis' has its roots in the 1990's according to some sources. Opioid use has been with us for centuries - the first 'opium dens' had their roots in the Far East, Afghanistan or Pakistan, and eventually made their way to China, and then the West. Opioids do have their place - pain relief - which helps some, and destroys other.

Senator Chuck Schumer is at it again, but this time, instead of just mouthing platitudes, may be on track to start meaningful sanctions against the two biggest producers and exporters of synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, car-fentanyl, ketamine, etc., Mexico and China! (The State Department advises against travels to these countries - there is no surprise!)

We are in a war, a war for the lives of our children. Leigh and I fought hard and long for our son, Mark. Opioids, cheap opioids like synthetic fentanyl, were the victors - this time! It is about time our Federal Government takes the first meaningful steps to stop the import of these deadly drugs.

Economic sanctions should not be the only steps taken - these may prove ineffective. A war is not won with sanctions or appeasement alone - ask Prime Minister Chamberlain. There are times when real patriots must take their stand - stand their ground and defend their loved ones!

The Senator's proposal has passed the Senate, and the House should take up this bill. It is about time! Here are links to the news - https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/schumer-urges-house-to-take-up-bill-that-imposes-sanctions-on-countries-that-fail-to-crack-down-on-synthetic-opioid-production/ and a Western New York/Orleans County perspective.

Please pray these measures are enacted into law, and that they are effective. It is time to take the fight to the exporters of these poisons!

Missing Angels

 Missing Angels 

Leigh and I have been on this grief journey since June 1, 2019, the day our son Mark passed from a substance use overdose. There have been times when we were angry, sad, frustrated, and depressed - sometimes separately, sometimes all at once. 

There are so many others who have shared this experience, and too many who are, and sadly will. This madness of the opioid epidemic has to stop! 

Orleans Recovery - Hope Begins Here offered 'Missing Angels' as a program to help those coping with grief from a substance use passing. Orleans Recovery has approved our continuing this program as an outreach to the citizens of Orleans County, Genesee County, Western Monroe County, and Eastern Niagara County in Western New York. We are happy to do this, to be A Voice For Mark, in this continuing struggle. 

Missing Angels meets twice a month, once in an online meeting, and then in-person. We welcome any and all who have gone through this horrible experience of living with, and losing, a loved one who has suffered with, and died from a substance use disorder. 

Please contact Leigh and I for details on where and when we hold the meetings. You are not alone in this.