Hello everyone,
I want to take a moment to share something deeply personal with you—a story that has shaped my life and my mission. It's a story about the power of one choice and how it can change everything.
On June 14, 2015, my life was forever altered. It was on this day that I experienced the unimaginable loss of my two sons, Nick and Jack, due to accidental drug overdoses. As a mother, there's no pain deeper than losing a child, and to lose two on the same day is a grief that words cannot fully capture.
Nick and Jack were vibrant, loving boys with bright futures ahead of them. They were exceptional hockey players, good students, and had hearts full of kindness. But like so many others, they made one choice that led to devastating consequences. They attended a graduation party where they consumed alcohol and, tragically, decided to take prescription pills offered by a friend. That one choice took them from us.
In the wake of this tragedy, my grief could have consumed me. But instead, I chose to honor Nick and Jack’s memory by turning my pain into purpose. I founded the 525 Foundation—named after their hockey jersey numbers—to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartache.
Through the foundation, I travel across the country, speaking at schools, community centers, and corporate events about the dangers of drug misuse. I share Nick and Jack’s story to illustrate that the choices we make, especially the seemingly small ones, can profoundly impact our lives and those around us.
The message I carry is simple but powerful: Every choice matters. It’s about understanding that each decision can lead us down different paths, and sometimes, one choice can alter the course of our entire lives. This is why it is crucial to be informed, think critically, andalways consider the potential consequences of our actions.
I’ve seen firsthand how sharing this message can spark change. Students approach me after presentations, moved and motivated to make better choices. Parents express their gratitude for the conversation starters that help them talk to their children about these critical issues. Communities come together, united in their commitment to drug misuse prevention.
But this isn’t a journey I can undertake alone. I need your help to spread this message far and wide. Here are a few ways you can get involved:
Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the dangers of drug misuse and share that knowledge with your family and friends.
Have Open Conversations: Talk to your children, students, or peers about the importance of making informed choices and the potential consequences of drug use.
Support Prevention Efforts: Volunteer, donate, or participate in local initiatives focused on drug misuse prevention.
Invite Me to Speak: If you think your community, school, or organization could benefit from hearing this message, please reach out to book a presentation.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of awareness and prevention. Together, we can honor the memories of Nick and Jack by ensuring their story saves lives. Remember, it only takes one choice to make a difference.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Your support means the world.
With gratitude, Becky Savage
Stay Connected:
Support the 525 Foundation: Learn how you can get involved at www.525foundation.org.
Comments