Saratoga Springs to hold candlelight vigil for International Overdose Awareness Day

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A candlelight vigil will be held at the Spirit of Life fountain in Congress Park in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day. The event, scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 28, will begin at 7 p.m.

The annual event held by Healing Springs Recovery Community Center, the Prevention Council of Saratoga County and Recovery Advocacy in Saratoga (RAIS), allows community members to light a candle in remembrance of loved ones who died to an overdose. The event will also feature free Narcan training sessions.

"International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held each year, when thousands of people worldwide will stand alongside the friends and families of fatal overdose victims to reflect on those who have been lost," Lillian McCarthy, director of Healing Springs Recovery Center, said. "The event is organized on the understanding that no one need feel shame or disgrace over a drug overdose. It allows all who have been affected by overdose a chance to publicly mourn and help the wider community understand that no one is immune to the tragedy of overdose."

Participants are encouraged to bring a photo or a token of their loved ones to be placed on a memory board. All attendees will be able, if they choose to, to share the name of those they are remembering.

The vigil is in addition to the countywide Narcan trainings on Tuesday. The trainings will span into 29 different events, throughout Saratoga County.

Following the vigil, there will be light refreshments and resources from different recovery services available. Those who are unable to attend an event but would still like an overdose rescue kit, can request one on the Saratoga County website.