US Buildings and Landmarks to Shine Purple for 'National Naloxone Awareness Day' on June 6

On June 6, prominent buildings and landmarks across the United States, from Niagara Falls to Long Beach City Hall, will illuminate in purple to mark "National Naloxone Awareness Day." This significant day aims to raise public consciousness about naloxone, a life-saving drug that can reverse opioid overdoses, as the nation grapples with a devastating drug epidemic. The initiative was launched in 2023 by Victoria's Voice Foundation, supported by a bipartisan congressional resolution that recognized the day annually.

In 2023, the United States saw nearly 110,000 drug overdose deaths, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl largely responsible, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With the crisis escalating, the Food and Drug Administration made a landmark decision to authorize the first over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray, making it accessible without a prescription. Naloxone is renowned for its ability to restore normal breathing quickly in individuals overdosing on opioids. It is safe, easy to administer, non-addictive, and harmless if used on someone not experiencing an overdose. The National Institutes of Health notes that about 40% of fatal overdoses occur with someone else present, emphasizing the importance of widespread naloxone availability.

Jackie and David Siegel, founders of the Victoria's Voice Foundation, have been at the forefront of this advocacy. Their efforts are driven by personal tragedy; their daughter, Victoria, died from an accidental drug overdose at 18 years old on June 6, 2015. Despite having a pulse when first responders arrived, the lack of naloxone on hand contributed to her untimely death. Through their foundation, they aim to prevent similar tragedies for other families.

In conjunction with National Naloxone Awareness Day, the Foundation has launched the "Get.Give.Save." initiative. This public health campaign is dedicated to making naloxone distribution both affordable and accessible nationwide. Despite naloxone's availability over the counter, obstacles such as the stigma associated with drug use still hinder its widespread adoption.

The bipartisan resolution supporting National Naloxone Awareness Day was introduced by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Ed Markey (D-MA), and Representatives David Trone (D-MD), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Lisa McClain (R-MI). This federal recognition underscores the importance of naloxone in combating the opioid crisis.

The Siegel's advocacy extends beyond awareness days. They played a crucial role in promoting the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), signed into law in July 2016, which emphasizes the need for broader naloxone availability, particularly for law enforcement and first responders. Their foundation has partnered with InnovaScript to offer naloxone at reduced costs via their website.

Buildings across the country are encouraged to participate in National Naloxone Awareness Day by lighting up in purple. This visual solidarity serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis and the critical role of naloxone in saving lives.

Victoria's Voice Foundation, established by Jackie and David Siegel, is dedicated to supporting families affected by substance abuse. Since its inception, the foundation has positively impacted over a million parents and children through its education programs. The foundation continues to advocate for increased awareness and accessibility of naloxone, driven by the mission to prevent fatal overdoses and spare other families from experiencing similar heartache.

In conclusion, National Naloxone Awareness Day aims to shine a spotlight on the critical need for accessible naloxone amid the nation's drug crisis. By illuminating landmarks and raising public awareness, the initiative seeks to save lives and foster a broader understanding of this life-saving drug.

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