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Preventing Fentanyl Deaths in Orange County: How One Organization is Making a Difference

US Reporter Staff on April 21, 2023

The fentanyl crisis has left countless families and communities across the United States grappling with heartbreak and loss. This powerful synthetic opioid, which has increasingly found its way into the drug supply, has dramatically increased drug overdose deaths nationwide.

Fentanyl, up to 100 times more potent than morphine, has become a significant contributor to the ongoing opioid epidemic. Dr. Karen Ross, a leading addiction medicine specialist, explains the deadly nature of fentanyl: “Even a tiny amount of fentanyl can be lethal, and the margin of error is terrifyingly small. The drug does not discriminate; it can claim the life of a first-time user or someone who has struggled with addiction for years.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl skyrocketed in recent years, with a 55% increase from 2019 to 2020 alone. In 2020, synthetic opioids were responsible for 64,070 deaths in the United States, accounting for 62% of all drug overdose deaths.

Orange County, California, has been hit particularly hard by the fentanyl crisis. Local authorities have reported a staggering 1,564% increase in fentanyl-related deaths from 2014 to 2021. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for action in this community.

To confront the challenges posed by the fentanyl epidemic, local law enforcement agencies and healthcare professionals have joined forces in Orange County. They are implementing strategies to disrupt the supply of illicit fentanyl, provide support to those struggling with addiction, and educate the public about the dangers of fentanyl and counterfeit pills. For example, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department has formed a special task force dedicated to combating the spread of fentanyl in the region.

Efforts to educate the public are also critical in addressing the fentanyl crisis. Schools and community organizations are raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, the risks of counterfeit pills, and the importance of knowing the signs of an overdose. Early intervention can be lifesaving, and by providing resources and information, these groups hope to prevent future tragedies.

Despite the ongoing efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis, the emotional toll on families and communities remains immense. In response to this epidemic, organizations like FentanylSolution.org have emerged to fight the illicit fentanyl crisis and support those affected by it. In the next part of this article, we will explore FentanylSolution.org’s mission, vision, and efforts to save lives and create a safer future for all.

FentanylSolution.org, a Newport Beach, California-based organization, was launched in 2023 with a steadfast mission to combat the illicit fentanyl crisis. The team, comprised of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference, is focused on mitigating the devastating impact of this dangerous drug on communities across the country.

Janice M. Celeste, the president and CEO of FentanylSolution.org, shares her motivation for joining the fight against fentanyl: “The stories of families torn apart by this deadly drug are heart-wrenching. We cannot stand idly by and watch as our communities are devastated by fentanyl. We must act now to save lives and protect future generations.”

With an immediate focus on Orange County, FentanylSolution.org’s approach consists of raising awareness, providing education, and mobilizing action to prevent the spread of fentanyl. The organization seeks to foster collaboration among individuals, families, and organizations to create a safer future for everyone, especially children.

One key element of FentanylSolution.org’s strategy involves advocating for changes in laws and regulations to effectively curb the spread of the drug. By pushing for stronger legislation, improved law enforcement efforts, and comprehensive support for those affected by fentanyl addiction, the organization aims to make lasting, positive change.

FentanylSolution.org’s vision is a future where every community is safeguarded from the destructive effects of fentanyl. They aspire to create an environment in which national legislation and heightened awareness unite to form a robust shield against this devastating epidemic, ensuring that no more lives are lost.

To achieve its mission, FentanylSolution.org collaborates with experts from various fields, including addiction, public health, and law enforcement. They also engage with affected individuals and families from Orange County, sharing their stories to raise awareness and drive action.

One such story is that of Amy, a mother from Orange County who lost her son to a fentanyl overdose. Her grief led her to become an advocate for change, working with FentanylSolution.org to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and the urgent need for action. Maria’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the fentanyl crisis and the importance of organizations like FentanylSolution.org in fighting this epidemic.

Celeste emphasizes the importance of collaboration in addressing the crisis: “We work closely with other organizations, community members, and local authorities to coordinate our efforts and maximize the impact we can make together. Our partnerships are essential in building a united front against the fentanyl crisis.”

One of FentanylSolution.org’s programs is the Naloxone Spray Training, made possible by their sponsor, Kloxxado. The organization offers training on how to use naloxone in case of an overdose emergency, considering the prevalence of counterfeit pills and laced drugs with fentanyl powder. These deadly substances can quickly lead to an overdose, making it vital that people have access to naloxone and know how to use it. This knowledge is particularly important for parents of teens, as well as in the workplace. FentanylSolution.org provides each attendee of their training with a Kloxxodo spray to keep in their first aid kit at home or work, ensuring they are prepared to act quickly in case of an overdose emergency.

FentanylSolution.org is constantly working on new initiatives and events to engage the community in the fight against the fentanyl crisis. To participate in or support their efforts, readers can visit their website for more information on upcoming events and ways to get involved.

By delivering comprehensive education, powerful advocacy, unwavering community support, and impartial nonpartisan policies, FentanylSolution.org aims to eradicate fentanyl deaths in the United States. Their commitment to promoting accountability and responsibility at all levels of leadership and governance will remain steadfast until their mission is accomplished.

As we continue to grapple with the devastating effects of the fentanyl crisis, the work of organizations like FentanylSolution.org is more critical than ever. By addressing the root causes of the crisis and promoting evidence-based solutions, they are making a difference in the lives of individuals and families impacted by fentanyl addiction and overdose.

How This Texas-Based Rehab Infinite Recovery is Tackling the Fentanyl Crisis

US Reporter Staff on September 23, 2022

The United States has weathered its fair share of drug crises, from crack-cocaine in the 1980s to the OxyContin crisis in the 2000s. However, the current problem with Fentanyl is proving to be another beast entirely. According to studies from the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, Fentanyl is a factor in 53% of overdoses. This epidemic has mobilized therapists and recovery experts to develop new ways of approaching the age-old problem of addiction.

Texas-based Infinite Recovery is one such facility battling the Fentanyl crisis head-on. Robin Lindeman, the facility’s Executive Director, believes that increasing awareness of the dangers of Fentanyl is paramount to counteracting the pervasiveness of the epidemic. “Once more people understand just how much of an epidemic — and a dangerous one — this is, more action can be taken to mitigate its effects,” says Lindeman.

The Source of the Problem

Many theories exist to explain why Fentanyl has become such an issue. Initially introduced in the 1960s as an anesthetic, it is by no means a new drug, having been utilized by the medical community since as a powerful pain reliever for decades that comes in various delivery methods, from injectables to patches, sprays, and even lollipops (lozenges).

“The issue of Fentanyl as a deadly drug stems from the illicit production of the opioid,” explains Lindeman. “Because Fentanyl is often used as a “cutting agent” to create a cheaper and more addictive drug, many people unknowingly are purchasing drugs laced with Fentanyl.”

The fatal results of Fentanyl abuse have increased substantially in the last decade, spurring Infinite Recovery to make it a focus of their rehabilitation system. “In order to tackle the Fentanyl abuse crisis, it is essential that people have access to better prevention and treatment services, and that these services be known to anyone struggling with addiction,” says Lindeman.

The Infinite Recovery Approach

“Whether someone is addicted to a certain drug and is unaware that they are buying a drug cut with fentanyl, or addicted to Fentanyl itself, the root cause of the crisis has to be addressed in order to prevent it from becoming a further issue,” explains Lindeman. “To do this, drug abuse and addiction has to be treated at the core.”

Infinite Recovery approaches this core focus by recognizing that, in order to prevent the Fentanyl crisis from becoming an increasing issue, there first must be awareness of the problem in the community at large. The root of the addiction issue needs to be addressed before any healing can begin. “Once there is awareness, providing someone struggling with Fentanyl abuse an opportunity to receive holistic treatment has to be taken in order to ensure a successful, long-term recovery from addiction,” Lindeman says.

This holistic treatment includes a well-rounded, evidence-based approach incorporating personally-tailored therapy and proactive client engagement. Infinite Recovery’s in-patient facility is calm and relaxing to cater to the specialized needs of someone trying to break free from a Fentanyl addiction. They embrace the holistic label, focusing on their patients’ mind, body, and spirit in an attempt to heal the whole person — not just their physical addiction.

Community is also a priority for Infinite Recovery. Many addicts build a community around them of other users, which feeds their addiction. Infinite Recovery seeks to reframe the addict’s idea of what community can be and provide them a healthier, more productive alternative.

When a person addicted to Fentanyl first arrives at Infinite Recovery, they are put through a medically-supervised detox program. A withdrawal from Fentanyl, much like other opioids, can be difficult on the body, leading to shakes, chills, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, and muscle aches. Once the drug is out of the person’s system and they are placed into a safe and controlled environment, real healing can begin. “Only when a person detoxing has peace of mind that they will be taken care of no matter what happens and they start to regain clarity of mind, can they truly start to work on the root causes of their addiction,” says Lindeman.

Each individual entering Infinite Recovery is looked at on a case-by-case basis. This appraoch means that every person is considered unique, and their backstories and reasons for using are an essential part of the recovery plan to the treatment team. “Taking a holistic approach to treatment — instead of just treating abuse on the surface — ensures that the individual is set up for lifelong success with their recovery,” explains Lindeman.

The Help They Deserve

To Lindeman, the only way the Fentanyl crisis will ever dissipate is if people are given access to the help that they deserve. The more outreach and information that is available concerning the dangers of Fentanyl, the more people will understand how they can get help. The opportunity for recovery and support — and second chances — is what all those addicted to Fentanyl need if the United States ever hopes to end this epidemic. “Only when every person struggling with addiction is given access to preventive and life-saving care,” says Lindeman, “will the ripple effect of this crisis has put on this country at large be mitigated.”