KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Over the last year, Knox County leaders said 392 fatal overdoses were reported in Knox County. That's around 110 fewer reported than the previous timeframe.
International Overdose Awareness Day falls on Aug. 31 every year. This year, an event was held the day before due to weather concerns and the upcoming Tennessee Football game. It was attended by Knoxville and Knox County mayors, who made proclamations declaring Saturday as Overdose Awareness Day.
This year, one mother said she hoped her son's story would save lives and prevent fatal overdoses. Sharon Kitts said she lost her 44-year-old son due to a fatal overdose.
"It took everything from him. It took his life," Kitts said. "A bright shining star who loved Jesus Christ."
She said her son, Dustin Monroe, was diagnosed with bipolar personality disorder and ADHD. She said the disorders may have led him to addiction.
"Dustin was in active addiction for almost 10 years, off and on," said Kitts.
He died from fentanyl poisoning. His mother said he believed he was using ecstasy, but it was laced with illicit fentanyl.
From August 2022 to August 2023, more than 500 fatal overdoses were reported in Knox County. More than 100 fewer were reported in the same timeframe this year.
"It happens all over our community, all over town," said Webster Bailey, Executive Director of Metro Drug Coalition.
Advocates said education, awareness and prevention efforts all help bring down the number of fatal overdoses. More education about overdose-reversing drugs like Narcan is also helping save lives in Knox County, according to Bailey.
"Narcan and Naloxone training and pushing into the community," said Bailey.