Black Balloon Day

The opioid epidemic is a national crisis that has had a devastating effect on families across the United States. It has caused a significant increase in drug overdose deaths and hospitalizations, with drug overdose deaths reaching 108,000 in 2022. 

The opioid epidemic has also left a profound impact on families, as they struggle to cope with the loss of their loved one. The pain of losing a family member to addiction can be overwhelming and long-lasting, leaving you with unanswered questions, and feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation.

In continuing to raise awareness and support those struggling with substance use disorders, Break Free observes Black Balloon Day as a day of remembrance and to celebrate the lives lost to a drug overdose.

As with many things with the opioid epidemic, Black Balloon Day began with a family’s loss. Diane and Lauren Hurley began Black Balloon Day in remembrance of Greg Tremblay. Tremblay, a father of four, is the son-in-law of Diane and brother-in-law of Lauren and died of an overdose when he was 38 years old on March 6, 2015.

Drug overdose deaths are the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Americans are more likely to die of an opioid overdose than they are from a car accident or by a gun. Black Balloon Day helps create awareness around the important issue of providing support to those struggling with substance use disorder and their loved ones.

It is essential that we work together to end the opioid epidemic and provide support for families affected by substance use disorders. This includes increasing access to prevention, treatment, improving mental health services, and providing resources for families in need. By working together, we can help families heal from the devastating effects of addiction and build a brighter future for our communities.

Share your story with us to honor a loved one you lost by sending an email to team@breakfreefoundation.org.