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SouthRiver Community Health Center To Host Pain Matters Community Event

Communities throughout the U.S. are working to address the opioid epidemic caused by the misuse of opioids, which include pain-relieving prescription drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine and fentanyl, as well as illegal opioids like heroin.

On Tuesday, May 22, 5:30pm-7:30pm, SouthRiver Community Health Center will host Pain Matters—a community event to raise awareness about effective pain management, medication safety and the prevention of opioid misuse and overdose. The keynote speaker is Babette Reeves, a Behavioral Health Specialist with SouthRiver Community Health Center, specializing in work with patients with chronic pain and trauma.

The event will cover: 1) chronic pain management myths and facts; 2) safe use of pain medications; and 3) safe medication storage and disposal. The HIV Alliance will provide training on the use of Narcan rescue medication to reverse opioid overdose. Adult attendees who complete the Narcan training will be eligible to receive a Narcan rescue kit while supplies last.

All community members are invited to attend this free event. The Winston Community Center is located at 440 Southeast Grape Avenue, Winston. Register online at www.painmatters2018.eventbrite.com call 541‑671-6017.

Pain Matters is hosted by SouthRiver Community Health Center in cooperation with Adapt Prevention & Education, Douglas Public Health Network, HIV Alliance and with support from the Health Resources & Services Administration to expand access to mental health services, and substance abuse services focusing on the treatment, prevention and awareness of opioid abuse.