New York City has been running a public service campaign to increase awareness of Naloxone, a medication used to block the effects of opioids, especially in overdose. As part of the "I Saved a Life" campaign, there have been ads posted on subway trains. The other day, I came across one that I had to read, and then reread, just to be sure:
According to the poster, Shantae saved his best friend's life. He also described that experience.
"I've had one best friend I could always rely on." It's great to have a friend like that.
"A few years ago, we were hanging out." As best friends do.
"He looked like he was falling asleep." Hey, it's not always non-stop excitement when best friends hang.
"I shook him to wake him up but couldn't." Hmmm, odd choice, but maybe he was missing the good part of the movie.
"He was overdosing." Okay, stop.
Seems Shantae neglected to mention earlier that part of "hanging out" included doing heroin. It also puts that whole "shake him to wake him" plan in a new light, like, this wasn't the first time that his friend looked like he was "sleeping" and needed to be forcefully awakened.
"I gave him a dose of naxolone and he came back." Right, so apparently his best friend was a real junkie, so much so that Shantae had taken to carrying a dose of an anti-overdose drug. You know, for when his BFF nearly threatens to turn into a BF RIP.
"Today, I still have my best friend." Sure, but I'm hoping that part of being a best friend includes urging that best friend to GO TO REHAB and get some help. Carrying naxolone may prevent an unnecessary death, but might it be better to prevent an overdose instead?
I get it. Using naxolone can save a life. But this whole campaign seems to be glossing over the other end of the problem.
