Healing Transitions’ Women’s Response Team (WRT) is a group of current participants and alumni at the women’s campus who learn and practice Post-Opioid Overdose Reversal techniques. Not only do they teach these techniques to others on campus and in the community, but they also keep their skills sharp by administering drills on campus. These drills simulate real overdose situations, allowing team members to act under pressure and practice saving lives.
The WRT was founded at the end of 2020 by Amy Brucia, Director of Recovery Support Services, in response to a significant increase in overdoses on campus during the beginning of COVID-19. This rise in overdoses was also reflected in the surrounding community.
“I was always the one on the opposite side, the one who was overdosing instead of helping reverse an overdose. And that’s what pushed me in my heart to want to join the team,” shares JB, who has been part of the WRT since her first day at Healing Transitions.
“I got inspired by a past friend of mine who had actually overdosed, and I didn’t know how to help in that situation,” says Nancy.
“I have overdosed. I’ve been brought back from it. And I’ve also reversed overdoses in my active addiction. Being able to spread the word to families so they can save a mom, a sister, a daughter—that’s one of my greatest passions,” shares Rebecca.
As they go around the room, discussing the impact they’re making, it becomes clear that each team member is personally touched by this initiative.
Kayla shares that, like Rebecca, she has been on both sides—both the one overdosing and the one reviving someone. “It has given me a small sense of closeness to certain people who can relate to what I’ve been through.”
The WRT has attended many community events, one being The Black Poster Project, where photos of individuals who have lost their lives to overdose are displayed.
“Seeing around 805 pictures made us reflect on how many people we could reach and educate on overdose reversal techniques,” the team shares.
The team also spreads awareness on campus. “Once a month, we do a drill so everyone can see and learn how to react quickly to an overdose and know exactly what to do,” shares Alicia. She continues, “We also learn how to deal with the emotions that arise after experiencing a situation like this.”
For many of these women, the WRT was the first thing they got involved in when they entered the program. Many of them relate to the shared journey—from where they came from to where they are now.
“I can still think back to where I was and put myself in those shoes,” shares Brittany.
When explaining how they administer Narcan training for overdose reversal, Brandy whose also been a member since day one shares, “We use the 1-2-30 method: 1 spray of Narcan, 2 breaths, and 30 chest compressions, repeating until the person is conscious or until a paramedic arrives. “
The team emphasizes that Narcan can be administered multiple times without harming the individual in need.
Looking ahead, the WRT hopes to expand their skillset. “We’ve been working on getting CPR certification for the team, so we can share that knowledge with other women here on campus—and eventually, maybe out in the community.”
“That’s what we’re working on at the moment,” they say with determination.
For many of the women in the room, the feeling of hopelessness they once had—thinking that their situation was the end—has been replaced with a new sense of possibility.
“I hope this spreads awareness and serves as a reminder that even when someone feels like they’ve lost all hope, they can look at others and think, ‘If she can do it, maybe I can too”, shares JB.
Naloxone is available at both our Women’s and Men’s Detox Centers. Stop by either center to pick up a box if needed.