My brother died from an overdose because there was no Narcan available to save his life. This loss is an unimaginable pain that no family should have to experience due to lack of access to life-saving medication. In Highland, CA, and many communities like ours, the opioid crisis has hit hard and the availability of tools to combat overdoses is crucial in preventing further tragedies.

Naloxone, commonly known by its brand name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist that can reverse opioid overdoses, which have become an alarming public health crisis across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioids were involved in 68,630 overdose deaths in the US in 2020 alone. Making Narcan readily available in our community is essential to saving lives and giving individuals suffering from addiction a second chance.

Currently, Narcan is not easily accessible or affordable for everyone in Highland, CA. Many residents who are at risk or have loved ones at risk of overdose do not have the means to purchase this life-saving medication. By providing Narcan for free, we can empower individuals to act swiftly in emergencies, thus significantly reducing the number of overdose fatalities.

We urge local government officials and healthcare providers in Highland, CA to take immediate action. We call upon our local pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals to collaborate with organizations and state programs offering Narcan distribution initiatives. Furthermore, creating community-wide training programs on administering Narcan will empower more citizens to act confidently during overdose situations.

Please join me in this crucial fight against opioid overdose deaths. By signing this petition, you will help advocate for free access to Narcan in Highland, CA, and contribute towards preventing unnecessary loss of life in our community. Support is needed from all sides – stand with us and save lives.