On March 6, communities in the United States observed Black Balloon Day to remember those who have died from drug overdoses. The UHS Addiction Medicine team marked the occasion with a ceremony and a moment of silence on Friday morning. Participants received black balloon flyers and were given the chance to honor loved ones lost to overdose.
Black Balloon Day was started by Diane and Lauren Hurley in memory of Greg Tremblay, who died from an overdose at age 38 and was a father of four.
The annual event aims to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic. It also encourages discussions about supporting people with substance use disorder, along with their families and loved ones.
Information about addiction services offered by UHS can be found on their website.
