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HomeMy Public PortalAboutTOL NR 2019-08-19 Overdose Awareness Day Town of Leesburg News Release For Immediate Release August 20, 2019 Media Contact: Leah Kosin, Public Information Assistant lkosin@leesburgva.gov  703-771-2781 Leesburg to Observe “International Overdose Awareness Day” on Tuesday, August 27, 2019 Leesburg, VA (August 20, 2019) – The Town of Leesburg will recognize “International Overdose Awareness Day” on Tuesday, August 27, beginning at 7 p.m. The local observance will begin on the Town Green (25 W Market Street) prior to a processional to Mervin Jackson Park. The ceremony includes moments of silence that will focus on key themes: recognition, hope, health, and reflection. Purple lights will also illuminate the Loudoun Street wall of the Town parking garage. International Overdose Awareness Day, held annually on August 31st, aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. It also acknowledges the grief felt by family and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of drug overdose. “Everyday lives are being lost and families are destroyed by the scourge of drug abuse,” said Mayor Kelly Burk. “We want to help be the change and are taking an affirmative stand for our families and communities who have suffered from this epidemic’s debilitating effects.” International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable. To learn more, visit www.overdoseday.com. # # #