Why did you become a member of Moms Stop the Harm?
My youngest son Erik passed away 8 1/2 years ago of overdose. As a nurse working Emergency/ICU and various areas I started to analyze myself as a mother and, nurse wanting to educate myself in all aspects of his death. MSTH came to be as I looked into his death, learning more on the crisis and wanted to help in someway. I actually switched my nursing career into mental health and addictions started work at our local Shelter. Finding MSTH helped me to gain clarity, science/evidence based knowledge to add to my new work. What does being an advocate mean to you?
Being a voice for those without one, especially with my clients in our homeless population of Wetaskiwin, Alberta. Honouring my son, my clients along with hopefully making changes for families with loved one’s struggling with substance use or who have lost them to toxic substances. Being an advocate means to me speaking up, even if your voice cracks and your hands are shaking. What do you want people to know about Moms Stop the Harm?
What I want people to know about Moms Stop the Harm MSTH is a safe place. A place without judgment. A place where you do not have to explain, defend, or justify loving someone who struggles with substance use — or grieving someone lost to toxic substances. It is a community that understands. Whether you are: You are not alone here. MSTH offers many avenues of support and learning, including: A support phone line to speak with someone who truly understands Holding Hope and Healing Hearts support groups for connection and shared experience Access to education through webinars and community events such as overdose awareness gatherings Opportunities to engage in advocacy Harm reduction education and online support
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