KPD Support Group Remembers Those Lost to Drug Overdose

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- "We've had to adjust to life without him," said Kim Jones, who lost her son to an overdose.

Kim Jones lost her son, Patrick, in May 2017 from an overdose. He was 21-years-old. He would have been a student at Pellissippi State.

"He loved cars, tools, he loved his friends and family," said Jones. "He wanted to be a surgical tech. We got his acceptance letter a week after he passed away. "

The Knoxville Police Department's drug overdose support group came together to remember their loved ones.

Jones helps run the support group.

They painted memorial crosses and made ribbons.

"We like validation, to know that we're not alone, and know that our child is not going to be forgotten," said Debra Reagan, who lost her son to an overdose.

Families said the goal is to remind folks to get hep if needed.

"There are people who love them," said Jones. "There is help for you. Don't put your families through this, it's terrible. There is help. You can find it. You can ask for it. Just get help."

Below is a list of resources for addiction:

Focus Treatment 423-308-2560 Buffalo Valley Inc. 931-796-5424 or 931-796-5427 Journey Pure River 888-340-4175 The Ranch 888-664-5692 The Oaks at La Paloma 901-726-6053 Agape 865-259-7996 Knoxville Families Anonymous 865-824-6429 Sisters of the Rainbow 865-521-9788 CADAS 1-877-282-1223 Eagles Nest Recovery Living 865-454-0331 or 865-971-1887 Great Starts or Respond 865-246-1100

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