Candlelighting Remembrance of Loved Ones lost in Opioid Crisis

3410 Bath Pike,Bethlehem PA 18017

12 December, 2021

Description

Candlelighting Remembrance of Loved Ones Lost in the Opioid Crisis Join the Friends of OASIS Community Center for a time to remember our loved ones lost in the opioid crisis and to substance related causes. In tandem with The Compassionate Friends’ Worldwide Candle lighting. Fellowship hour with light refreshments to follow. For more information contact 484-747-6825 or email [email protected]. Visit our website www.oasisBethlehe.org After the tragic death by fentanyl poisoning of their 23-year-old son and brother, Ben, the Miller family of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania has sought to speak up and raise awareness to the dangers of opioid use, to destigmatize substance use disorder, and remove the barriers so that sufferers and their families receive help and support.   Like so many young people, Ben had difficulty finding his voice. A sensitive, caring, and creative young man who struggled with anxiety and depression, Ben wanted to please others, but in doing so lacked assertiveness and resiliency skills to advocate for his own needs. Ben also experienced the trauma of bullying which contributed to his anxiety. This inability to speak up  resulted in Ben succumbing to peer pressure, leading to recreational drug use. After being prescribed a generous opioid prescription for oral surgery, Ben became addicted.  Ben battled substance use disorder more than eight arduous years, and attempted to overcome it through nine inpatient rehab treatments and a spiritual awakening through Alcoholics Anonymous. While Ben’s life was cut short, his legacy will live on by providing hope and resources to many in need.   Our Mission Statement: Through compassion and understanding of the family disease of addiction, we seek to provide education, support, comfort and healing to people who are at risk for, experiencing, or recovering from Substance Use Disorder, their families, and the families of those who lost their battle.   In honor of the life of Benjamin Alden Miller (8/8/92—8/1/16), please SPEAK UP for BEN — and all the Bens in the world who struggle to find their voice.   Break the Silence * End the Stigma * Never Forget