The annual Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education (NOPE) Presentation and Candlelight Vigil was held on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at the PHSC West Campus Performing Arts Center. Over the course of the evening, everyone showed support for families and friends, remembered the hundreds who have passed from substance related incidents in Pasco County, and recognized the thousands in our community who are suffering from the disease of addiction.

Photos of those lost to overdose were placed on the memorial wall the night of the vigil. Community Leaders discussed the various issues of substance misuse facing Pasco County and how you can get involved.

There was a wonderful turn out of support from so many in our community! The hope is that one day NOPE will only be of the past and Stigma will no longer exist. NOPE will continue to support, break down barriers, bring change and be the voice of those before us! Recovery is possible! On behalf of ASAP, We Support You!

NOPE – Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education – was back in person after two years presenting virtually. This year they had a very special event – Pasco Hernando State College – as part of their 50th Anniversary #ItTakesUs Social Justice Series – has partnered to bring in athlete, author, and advocate Randy Grimes.

A former NFL player whose career spanned 10 years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Randy Grimes used prescription pills to treat his career-related injuries. Those pills fed an addiction that would last more than 20 years. Upon retiring from the NFL, Randy fell deeper into his addiction—eventually jeopardizing his family and risking everything. “In football, I always had a playbook—and a team—to get me through the day,” states Randy. “Without that structure, I didn’t know what to do; I lost myself, and my addiction took over.” After losing a former teammate to an overdose, Randy finally had the courage to raise his hand and ask for help. “I literally crawled into treatment,” states Randy. “The tools I found there saved my life. I prayed that God would open the gates of heaven and let me in. Instead, He opened the gates of hell and let me out!”

The event is a beautiful and effective way to remember those we have lost to overdose and learn about recovery efforts here in Pasco County. Vendors, Speakers, and candlelight vigil in a night of remembrance.