National Overdose Awareness Walk in Fairbanks

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - National Overdose Awareness Day drew attention on Thursday evening as attendees walked two miles from the Morris Thompson Cultural Center to Pioneer Park.

“I would like the community to be aware of it, not to sweep it under the rug, not to hide from it, not to have a stigma on it,” said Kerry Phillips, Youth Services and Recovery Support Coordinator for the Fairbanks Native Association. “It’s here, fentanyl is in our community.”

Around 40 people participated in this event, which marked the third annual National Overdose Awareness Day walk in Fairbanks.

Phillips added that the organizers hope to bring attention to the issue of addiction and drug abuse in Fairbanks.

“I think the walk brings awareness to people, and it’s also a way to remember those who have lost someone to an overdose, whether it was intentional or accidental,” said Phillips.

Many local organizations and nonprofits came together to provide education and resources, including Naloxone overdose kits, at the end of the walk in Pioneer Park. A nurse provided training on how to use the Naloxone kits.

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