Overdose Deaths
"B.C. also set a record for the highest number of overdose deaths in the first half of the year, with 1,095 deaths from January to July."
I pass, on average, at least one to two comatose people in lower Sahali, Kamloops, British Columbia every morning. One deceased 24 hours after he assaulted my neighbor and landed in Columbia Square parking lot.
According to health care professionals, the majority of local addicts became so after becoming hooked from a medical procedure.
As someone who became addicted prior to an operation which relieved my pain and quit cold turkey out of necessity, I can attest to the physical requirements for the drug.
Withdrawal was terrifying, uncontrollable shaking, hallucinations, sweating and nightmares.
Thankfully our medical community has changed their prescription policy reducing the number of patients prescribed opioids.
Addicts accepted into rehab programs, according to a patient, are isolated for up to 72 hours in a room receiving medications to assist in the early withdrawals, then must commit to months and sometimes years of urine samples, meetings and sponsorship.
According to patients who made it through the first 72 hours, the rest is far from simple but easier when you disassociate yourself with unsupportive people.
Photos courtesy Unsplash
interesting information
ROTHENBURGER: Fight against drug overdoses must begin with more enforcement
"There’s still a debate to be held on providing addicts with free, clean drugs but, with street-drug toxicity confirmed as Enemy Number one, clearly the priority has to be getting rid of the poison, and that means a lot more resources for police. Only then can health-related measures become effective."
https://cfjctoday.com/2022/08/17/rothenburger-fight-against-drug-overdoses-must-begin-with-more-enforcement/
"Well an old friend who had fallen into drug abuse just served his time.in kamloops corrections.
He has been release this afternoon and been driven downtown and was told good luck.
He has no family here, no money and no possessions. He attempted to get a shelter before being released...remember He didn't know time and date exactly.
He contacted me as he as no clothes or anything to wear. I have contacted 4 homeless shelters with voicemails and no returned call. He has not been able to get into Emerald.
THIS IS THE BREAK IN THE GARBAGE SYSTEM OF CATCH AND RELEASE DRUG ADDICTED CRIMINALS!
He is now homeless, no shelter, no money, or clothes. Surrounded by drug use and the need for money.
CMHA ASK WELLNESS BCHOUSING all need to Step up their game."
From Kamloops Citizens for Change