Turning Tragedy into Hope
A local family’s loss has become a rallying cry to combat the opioid crisis in the Capital Region. Lynne and Tony Piscitella, of Rotterdam, are using their daughter Jennifer’s memory to reach out to others who are struggling with addiction.
A Tragic Loss
Jennifer, 28, passed away on April 29, 2019, due to an accidental overdose. Her parents recall that she started with hydrocodone to treat sports-related injuries, but eventually turned to heroin.
A Message of Hope
Lynne and Tony are sharing a message of hope, hoping to help others who are struggling. In their daughter’s obituary, they wrote, "Please, if you’re reading this obituary and you’re thinking, ‘I’ve got a handle on this, or I can control this, you can’t. Jenn thought she could, now she’s an angel in heaven."
The Fight Against Addiction
Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino, of the New York Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), emphasizes that the reality is that many families are burying their children too soon due to addiction. He notes that synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, are driving addiction.
Law Enforcement Efforts
The New York Division of the DEA has seized 4.4 million fentanyl pills and 1,200 pounds of fentanyl powder, which is enough to kill 39 million Americans, twice the population of the State of New York. Tarentino stresses that this is not a war on drugs, but a fight to save lives by holding drug traffickers and dealers accountable.
Local Efforts
Local authorities, like Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, are also working to combat the crisis. Deputies like Daniel Morrissey and Sergeant Jamie Panichi are driving efforts to get drugs off local streets. In a recent drug sting, they seized illegal drugs, including fentanyl-laced heroin, which tested positive for the deadly drug.
Resources for Help
For those struggling with addiction, there are resources available:
- Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline: 1-833-467-3123 or Rensco.helpline@gmail.com
- Second Chance Opportunities: 518-489-1929 or info@SCOAlbany.com
- Whitney M. Young, Jr. Health Center: 518-465-4771 or info@wmyhealth.org
Conclusion
Turning tragedy into hope, the Piscitella family’s story serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of addiction. As the community comes together to combat this crisis, it is essential to provide resources and support for those affected. By working together, we can make a difference and save lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the source of the opioid crisis?
A: The source of the crisis is multifaceted, involving prescription opioids, illegal drugs, and fentanyl.
Q: How can I get help for my loved one struggling with addiction?
A: Reach out to local organizations, such as Second Chance Opportunities or the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Health Center, for support and resources.
Q: What can I do to help combat the opioid crisis?
A: Educate yourself about the issue, support local efforts, and reach out to those affected by addiction.
Q: How can I get support for myself or my family dealing with the loss of a loved one to addiction?
A: Contact local support groups or counseling services for guidance and support.
