Mother’s Mission to Prevent Fentanyl Overdose Tragedies
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Juli Shamash, a devoted mother of three, is on a heartfelt quest to spare other families from the devastating effects of fentanyl overdose, a tragedy that claimed the life of her beloved son, Tyler. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Juli opens up about her profound loss and her determined advocacy to prevent similar heartbreaking incidents.
The Shamash family’s life took a tragic turn in October 2018 when Juli received a distressing call about her 19-year-old son, Tyler. Battling substance abuse issues that began with marijuana and progressed to more harmful substances, Tyler’s struggles led him down a path of addiction that ultimately cost him his life. Despite efforts to help him through treatment programs, Tyler’s addiction persisted.
The pivotal moment came when Tyler, recovering from an injury and prescribed opioid pain medication, relapsed into heroin use. A sequence of events unfolded, culminating in Tyler’s fatal overdose on fentanyl. For Juli, the shock and grief were unbearable, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.
Juli’s anguish was compounded by the realization that the standard drug screenings conducted by hospitals did not detect fentanyl in Tyler’s system. This oversight was a critical factor that went unnoticed, highlighting the need for comprehensive screening protocols to identify synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Juli’s subsequent efforts have been focused on advocating for Tyler’s Law, a legislative initiative mandating fentanyl inclusion in emergency department drug screenings.
Following Tyler’s tragic passing, Juli has embarked on a mission to honour his memory by spearheading initiatives aimed at combating opioid addiction and overdose. Through the establishment of the Drug Awareness Foundation and the promotion of naloxone availability in schools, Juli aims to raise awareness, educate communities, and prevent further tragedies.
The widespread impact of fentanyl overdoses in the United States underscores the urgency of addressing this public health crisis. In 2024 alone, over 48,000 individuals lost their lives to fentanyl-related incidents, underscoring the need for concerted action and preventive measures to combat this escalating epidemic. Juli’s advocacy and tireless efforts resonate with families across the nation grappling with similar challenges.
As Juli reflects on Tyler’s life, she fondly remembers his compassionate nature, his adventurous spirit, and his unique interests. Tyler’s memory lives on through the legacy of Tyler’s Law and the enduring commitment to saving lives and raising awareness about addiction. Juli’s poignant journey serves as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss, inspiring others to join the fight against opioid addiction.
In a nation where addiction can impact any family, Juli’s unwavering determination to safeguard others from the scourge of fentanyl overdose stands as a testament to a mother’s love and enduring legacy. Through her advocacy and outreach efforts, Juli continues to champion for change, striving to prevent more families from enduring the heartbreak and loss that has defined her own profoundly impactful journey.