Survived to see 2018. Some would say I would not , but did, for many elders and children at their homes were with me and those who were at my side in prayer . Much awareness , much discussion , much debate. To much at stake I say , our people, our future , our youth. I was one , and now we are many. 90 % women signing with comments of desperation for aid, for they are those who bring life into this world, only they can feel the pain of childbirth to only see their offspring, their child wither away from sickness or sudden death to substance abuse. I too, was wearry of my fate, but yet still here I am. Close to 3000 have signed , with no call or contact from the state , county , city or faith group. I do attend meetings within the city , and yet I ask for those in power to at very least give our people a sign of a"Hope" , to our senior population raising children , to our schools who as well struggle with deep rooted addiction issues with our youth, to those in the streets and especially those of us dealing with addict children. We , many have been active in proactive stance toward healing our own. On the streets, in non profits, in some churches, in many homes through prayer and cultural treatment strategies that hopefully will soon come into play. New faces running for office , some retiring , some resigning and some fired. Not yet enough I say, where is the aid, the nurisment, the tutors for our seniors raising kids from addicted population, the rehabilitation detox feild hospital for not only the adults but for our teens and adolescent population. Politicians make no mention of many of these deep rooted issues , I , like many others continue to push for change that can only come about through unity and numbers, ( mention of lawsuit on pharnacuticals and more narcan to save lives , i just hope they keep close eye on funding if it comes our way with transparency for all to see) compassion , caring , spirituality and action that will be key. Thanks to the mayor in Santa fe , whom approached me saying he wanted to come reinstill hope for our people on the streets and homes with me. Finally a politician who willingly came forward to shake my hand and offer to help. Along with a priest, father julio Right on Hermanos , you have my respect. I will hold you both to this offer very very soon. God bless us all and to a hopefull new year!