The urgency of educating the public about how to reverse fentanyl overdoses has never been more critical, as fentanyl-related deaths continue to rise across the country. Narcan training sessions provide essential skills, equipping people with the knowledge and tools to save lives.
Participants at the Oct. 8 training session at the Glen Cove High School learned how to recognize the signs of an overdose and administer Narcan, a life-saving drug that can counteract the effects of opioids.
“I think this is one of the most important things that my office has done,” said Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton. “We have trained somewhere close to 1,000 people, and I am very proud of that.”
Corrine Kaufman, a Glen Cove grandmother became an advocate for overdose awareness after granddaughter, Paige Gibbons, died of an overdose in 2022, unaware a Percocet pill was laced with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. Since the loss of her granddaughter, Kaufman and her family have worked to spread awareness about fentanyl’s dangers and the importance of knowing how to use Narcan.
“Fentanyl is ravaging our young people in the 18 to 45 age group,” Kaufman said. “They are the most vulnerable, but not the only ones. This demon drug knows no boundaries, and it’s taken people of all ages from all walks of life. It’s infiltrated our society right now. Knowledge and Narcan are the only weapons.”
People suffering from the effects of fentanyl have constricted pupils, and will fall asleep or lose consciousness. They will have slow or weak breathing and a limp body. They may make choking or gurgling sounds and have discoloration around their lips and nails. In the event of an overdose, a 911 call should be followed by the administration of naloxone in one of the victim’s nostrils. Bystanders should keep the victim awake and turn them on their side to prevent choking until paramedics arrive.
Following Kaufman’s emotional testimony, Calle Panakos, the coordinator of education and training at the Nassau County Office of Mental Health, took the stage to provide detailed instructions on how to use Narcan in an emergency. Panakos stressed the importance of early intervention and educating oneself on the dangers of fentanyl.
“Please educate yourself,” Panakos urged. “One pill can kill, and every time I say that, it touches my heart. Losing someone that you love because of this infectious disease affects the user and the loved ones behind, so intervene early.”
During her presentation, Panakos shared the increase in fentanyl-related deaths, noting the number of Americans dying from overdoses had tripled since 2021, and emphasized the importance of continued education and intervention.
“In 2021, almost 130 Americans died every day to overdoses. Now in 2024, that number has tripled, and one in 16 Americans who suffer from drug abuse will ask for help,” said Panakos. “So, continuous education is key. You’re going to say the same thing until you’ve made that impact on that person. Sometimes, you have to hand-hold them to take them where they want to go, but recovery is sweet.”
Some participants suggested expanding the program to include students during school hours.
“I think this could be a really great event to have during the school day, during students’ free periods,” said Vita Pipitone, a Glen Cove resident. “Things like Narcan training and CPR training are always very important and would be great for students to learn during the day as an extra educational benefit.”
DeRiggi-Whitton encouraged attendees to reach out if they were interested in hosting additional Narcan training sessions in their communities.
“We hope to have many more training sessions in the future, and if anyone is interested in having a training, just reach out to my office, and I would love to be able to set that up,” said DeRiggi-Whitton.
