Krista Vescio, a Thunder Bay resident, has been on a recovery journey from drug addiction for almost 16 years. Her decision to quit drugs was driven by the loss of her sister to a drug overdose in 2007, leaving behind five children. Vescio described her sister’s passing as both the worst day of her life and a turning point that led her to seek sobriety. Reflecting on her journey, Vescio emphasized her resilience, stating, “Here we are, 16 years in September, and going strong.”
Participating in a walk organized by Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), Vescio joined numerous others to raise awareness about the drug crisis in Thunder Bay. The district has recorded the highest opioid-related death rate in Ontario, surpassing the provincial average by over five times in 2025, as reported by the Office of the Chief Coroner.
During the walk from Marina Park to the Intercity Shopping Centre, covering a roughly five-kilometre distance, participants converged on another overdose awareness event hosted by the City of Thunder Bay Drug Strategy and Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU).
Advocating for increased resources to support individuals in need, Vescio stressed the importance of accessible help when individuals are ready to seek it. She highlighted the necessity of initiating support systems, stating, “It’s gotta start somewhere, right?”
Anna Betty Achneepineskum, a deputy grand chief with NAN, underscored the need for enhanced support services in Thunder Bay, emphasizing sustainable funding for agencies directly assisting affected individuals. While acknowledging existing detox centers, Achneepineskum expressed doubts about their adequacy to meet the community’s needs. She also emphasized the significance of post-recovery transition and aftercare, along with the provision of housing for individuals seeking assistance in overcoming drug addictions.
With a municipal election on the horizon, Achneepineskum called for the forthcoming city council to take proactive measures in addressing the ongoing challenges.
Despite efforts to raise awareness, Thunder Bay witnessed 61 confirmed opioid-related deaths last year, a sobering statistic reported by the Office of the Chief Coroner. Kandace Belanger, manager of street outreach, harm reduction, and sexual health at TBDHU, emphasized the human toll behind such numbers, urging a deeper understanding of the personal impact on families and communities.
International Overdose Awareness Day, observed on August 31, serves as a platform for open discussions on addiction and available services, fostering a supportive environment for individuals in need. Belanger encouraged the use of naloxone kits, which can counteract opioid overdose effects, available for free at pharmacies and health units.
Elaine Keesick and Marilyn Keno from North Spirit Lake First Nation participated in the overdose awareness walk to honor loved ones lost to addiction and support those grappling with substance abuse. Keesick’s message to individuals battling addiction was simple yet powerful: “you’re not alone.” Encouraging unity and mutual support, Keno echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of community solidarity in overcoming challenges.
In a message of hope and resilience, Vescio emphasized perseverance, urging individuals not to lose faith in their journey to recovery. She reassured, “Just don’t give up. There’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, and it’s never too late, right? You’ve got family that loves you and you are worth it.”