VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
Grieving mom shares message in front of B.C. legislature after nearly 900 KM run
Grieving mom shares message in front of B.C. legislature after nearly 900 KM run
Grieving mom shares message in front of B.C. legislature after nearly 900 KM run
Friday 30th June 2023
Jessica Michalofsky runs 900 KM across B.C. to advocate for policy change on toxic drug supply, honoring her son Aubrey's memory.
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Get the buttons here!Running for Change: A Mother's 900KM Journey
Episode Overview
- Jessica Michalofsky completed a 900 KM run across B.C.
- The run was in memory of her son, Aubrey, who died from toxic drug poisoning.
- The journey aimed to raise awareness for safe supply and policy change.
- Event organized by Moms Stop the Harm in Victoria.
- Calls for action to prevent further drug-related deaths.
Every step that Jessica made was for Aubrey but also for every family member that lies awake at night wondering if they're going to get the worst call of their lives.
In a powerful demonstration of resilience and advocacy, Jessica Michalofsky completed a grueling run of nearly 900 kilometers across British Columbia. Beginning in late May from Nelson, Michalofsky embarked on this journey to honor her son, Aubrey, who tragically passed away from toxic drug poisoning at the age of 25. Her mission was not only a personal tribute but also a call to action, urging for policy changes concerning the toxic drug supply crisis.
Michalofsky's run concluded in front of the B.C. legislature in Victoria, where she was welcomed by a supportive crowd of around 100 people. The event, organized by the advocacy group Moms Stop the Harm, featured speeches from notable figures including B.C.'s Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe and Fred Cameron from the Victoria Outreach Group Solid. These speeches underscored the urgent need for safe drug supply measures and highlighted the devastating impact of the ongoing public health crisis.
Lovetta Frank, a member of the Songhees Nation and a mother who understands the crisis's toll firsthand, also addressed the crowd. She emphasized the importance of advocacy and community support in tackling substance-related harms. Throughout her journey, Michalofsky stopped in 15 communities, each stop symbolizing the collective grief and demand for change shared by countless families affected by toxic drugs.
The crisis has claimed over 12,000 lives in British Columbia since it was declared a public health emergency seven years ago, a statistic that Michalofsky and others find unacceptable. In her speech, Michalofsky passionately argued for safe supply options, challenging misconceptions about such measures and highlighting the need for a compassionate approach to drug policy.
She shared her personal evolution in understanding these issues, stating that the possibility of having her son alive, despite drug use, would be preferable to the current reality. Jessica Michalofsky's run is a testament to the power of personal loss transformed into advocacy. Her determination has sparked conversations and education around safe supply, and she vows that this is just the beginning of ongoing efforts for change.
Her message is clear: the crisis affects everyone, and collective action is necessary to prevent further tragedies.