In Wichita, families gathered at a billboard vigil to honor loved ones lost to fentanyl, sharing stories and support while raising awareness about the dangers of drug use.
The atmosphere was heavy with silence, occasionally broken by laughter that carried a hint of sorrow. Mariah Ball, who organized the vigil, shared her own pain. She lost her son, Lucca, when he was just one year old after he accidentally took a pill while with his dad.
There were 16 faces on the billboard, representing countless others affected by drug use. Teresa Coppola, who lost her son Logan to fentanyl at 20, expressed her frustration. “Our kids shouldn’t have to die from mistakes,” she said, highlighting the harsh reality many families face.
Each candle held by attendees symbolizes a personal story, connecting them to the faces above. Michelle Dreiling, who lost her daughter at 20 after a mix-up with medication, emphasized the importance of community. “We’ve all been there for each other,” she said, reflecting on their shared experiences.
Coppola spoke fondly of her son, saying, “He was a good, wonderful, beautiful man.” While they find solace in each other’s company, they also bear the weight of their loved ones becoming symbols of a larger issue.
Dreiling pointed out that many believe drug issues don’t affect them, but they do. “We can use our tragedy to help others,” she said, stressing the importance of raising awareness. They’re determined to spread the message, looking forward and up.
Coppola added, “I’m proud of him for standing up for what he believed in, and he’s still doing that now.” The vigil aimed to challenge the stigma surrounding drug use, showing that it can impact anyone, regardless of age.
