Fentanyl kills.
It kills people of all races, income status, and ages. It kills people who don't even know that they are taking it.
On Thursday, February 22nd, Center High School hosted a panel discussion sponsored by Congressional Representatives Emmanuel Cleaver and Mark Alford. The panel consisted of parents who have lost children to Fentanyl, members of law enforcement who are trying to stop the flow of the drug, first responders who shared stories and options for treatment, counselors who help people learn how to avoid drug use altogether.
Center High School Nurse Roxanne Glover shared her story of a student in fall of 2022 who overdosed or had Fentanyl during school and was saved by Nurse Glover's timely administration of Narcan, a nasal spray antidote for reactions to opoids, including Fentanyl. Narcan is now a standard item in every nurse's office in the Center School District.
The stories were moving and disturbing. There are options that can be taken to reduce the risk. Suggestions from the panel include:
- TALK with your kids about drugs. WARN them that any drug can be contaminated with Fentanyl to create a "better high", even if it comes from a trusted friend. It can kill.
- Get Narcan to have in your house, your car, your kid's car. You can get free Narcan kits at Jackson County Public Health. Click here for details.
- Spread the word in our community. Too many people don't know about the dangers of Fentanyl.
Center was honored to be chosen to host this important community conversation. Thanks to the many people with Congressman Cleaver and Congressman Alford's offices to who helped to coordinate the event.