CAASA to host annual Celebration of Life event
By Canton CitizenPhoto submissions welcome for slideshow tribute
The Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) invites the public to its seventh annual Celebration of Life on Thursday, August 31, from 7-9 p.m. on the grounds of the Canton Senior Center at 500 Pleasant Street.
Held in conjunction with International Overdose Awareness Day, the event remembers those lost to overdose and those currently struggling with substance use disorder. It also acknowledges the challenges felt by family and friends while reminding them that they are not alone.
Overdose Awareness Day — a global event held annually on the last day of August — aims to erase the stigma associated with overdose and to spread the message that these tragedies are preventable. Although the loss of an individual is certainly sad, Canton’s Celebration of Life is intended to be uplifting, honoring the valued life of each person.
This year’s event will feature readings by CAASA members, music by Michael Hohmann, a keynote address, and will culminate with a candle-lighting ceremony and the readings of names of loved ones lost.
In addition, anyone who has lost someone to overdose or the illness of substance use disorder is invited to submit a photo of their loved one to be included in a slideshow that will be displayed that evening. Please send that picture to Diane Tynan at dtynan@town.canton.ma.us, along with the name, date of birth and date of passing. Please note: Photos that were displayed in prior years will need to be resubmitted with updated permission.
To further promote awareness of drug-related illness and death and support a message of recovery, purple ribbons have been attached to the light posts in downtown Canton and they will remain in place through the end of August. Signs bearing the International Overdose Awareness Day message have been placed throughout the town as well. Signs are available for pick-up for anyone wanting to place one on their property as well. Interested residents should contact Harriet Burak at harrietbur@aol.com.
The annual Celebration of Life is open to all members of the community. Mark your calendars to participate in this worthwhile event.
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=117244
Posted by Canton Citizen
on Aug 4 2023. Filed under News.
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