Local organization launches app aimed at combating deadly overdoses

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind., --- Amid the rapid rise in overdose deaths across the nation and here in Michiana, Naxos Neighbors launched its app to try and get those numbers down.

The new Naxos OD app will help connect a nearby community responder carrying naloxone a drug used to reverse overdoses with someone experiencing an overdose.

 “People in addiction deserve to have their life saved, why not? I’m in recovery for six years and I would have wanted somebody to save my life,” said Darlene Nivens, a community responder for the Naxos OD App.

Nivens is now a trained responder who overcame a drug addiction herself and said she’s ready to help save lives.

Local first responders who’ve also seen a recent increase in overdose calls believe this could be an important tool.

“So if the app allows those to be properly trained on how to administer it and respond quicker to someone they find in their neighborhood, that is having an overdose I think that could have a positive effect,” said Captain Steve Downey with the South Bend Fire Department.

“Narcan is something that reverses an overdose within minutes and it is so critical that every one of us carry because that means that we can save a life,” added Joanne Kelley Cogdell, CEO & Cofounder of Naxos Neighbors

Last year St. Joseph County saw a record high of 97 overdose deaths.

“With the influx of fentanyl in our community literally in all substances you can think of we have to arm folks with ways to protect themselves and their loved ones,” added Robin Vida, the Director of Health Outreach Promotion & Education for the St. Joseph County Health Department.

The community said they hope new app brings them one step closer to combating overdoses and addiction.

“We also have resources that are very important because they can help connect people immediately to recovery coach who can help find treatment options,” said Cogdell.

The app also has a feature to alert first responders, and right now just covers apart of South Bend,  but the organization hopes to expand to all of St. Joseph County.

For more information on upcoming app sessions click here.

For more information on Narcan training sessions click here.