On August 24th, the Sanghera family hosted the Third Annual International Overdose Awareness Day event in honour of their son Parm who died in 2021 from drug poisoning at the young age of 26.
“Purple for Parm” was held at the peaceful setting of Mill Pond Park in Mission, Parm’s favourite place to visit. The event opened with a beautiful Indigenous drumming and song by Augusta Gladstone, followed by guest speakers on addiction, mental health and personal stories of loss.
"Many have lost loved ones through the overdose and opioid drug crisis," says Dupinder Kaur Saran who spoke at the beautiful event. "How many more will we lose? Together we can make a difference, end the overdose crisis and be non-judgmental creating awareness that anyone can be affected by this.”
Cynthia Coyle, Executive Director for Fraser House Society: “Fraser House and Off The Clock Toolbox Talk were honoured to be invited to join in with Parm’s relatives and friends in raising awareness, remembering Parm, and all whose lives have been taken from toxic drugs. Coming together helps us all and the shared message of ‘let’s open up and talk’ is powerful and important when it comes to mental health and substance use.”
The evening included food and fundraising with the funds going to Fraser House Society to support ongoing programs in Substance Use Counselling, Prevention and Outreach. A cheque for $5,695.00 was presented to Fraser House from Sherry Sanghera.