On March 6, Knox County will join families across America to remember and celebrate the lives lost to overdose. This day has become known as Black Balloon Day.
Barbourville native Kay Powers said she was inspired to host Black Balloon Day because she, too, has experienced losing loved ones from an overdose. Powers lost her daughter Amber in 2017 at the age of 31 and her son Ryan in 2021 at the age of 30.
"I want the community to know that they're not alone, and we can come together in memory of our lost loved ones," said Powers.
Redemption Road Recovery, Hope City Recovery, Barbourville High School Resource Center, and Recovery Works will be in attendance to provide information and resources for the local community.
"This isn't only for families who have lost loved ones or for recovering addicts. It's also for anyone who wants some help and doesn't know how to find help. There will be lots of resources that will be able to point them in the right direction," said Powers.
According to the Overdose Lifeline website, drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Black Balloon Day helps create awareness around this issue and provides support to those struggling with substance use disorder and their loved ones.
The event will take place under the Pavilion Shelter at the Knox County Extension Office on Treuhaft Blvd in Barbourville on Sunday, March 6 at 2 pm. Powers will have balloons to release in memory of loved ones lost to overdose.
Samantha Walden, Staff Writer at the Kentucky Daily