The opioid crisis has left a devastating impact on communities across the United States. As the nation grapples with the rising number of opioid overdoses, public figures and organizations are stepping up to raise awareness and provide solutions. One such individual is former NFL star Emmitt Smith. BlackDoctor.org sat down with the Pro Football Hall of Famer, who has joined forces with Emergent’s “Ready to Rescue” campaign, which aims to combat opioid emergencies and overdoses to discuss his personal connection to substance abuse and why he chose to join the campaign.
Emmitt Smith’s Personal Connection to the Opioid Crisis
Like many individuals, Smith has faced the heart-wrenching loss of a loved one due to opioid addiction. In the 1990s, the former Dallas Cowboys running back lost a teammate to a fatal overdose. While it’s not confirmed if the teammate died as a result of an opioid overdose, his death is indicative of the dangers of substance abuse.
Additionally, Smith’s sister struggled with severe pain management due to being placed on opioids after undergoing chemotherapy. This resulted in two alarming episodes.
Smith’s connections aren’t isolated events.
According to the CDC, over 108,000 overdose deaths took place in just 12 months between 2021-22. Eight in 10 of these deaths were opioid-related. Furthermore, with the rise in synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, the epidemic is disproportionately impacting urban communities, where opioid overdose death rates are four to six times greater amongst Black Americans than white Americans.
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Realizing the impact substance abuse has on so many individuals was the driving force for Smith’s desire to get involved and make a difference.
“The goal is to bring more awareness and reduce the stigma around opioid emergencies to get people keenly aware and allow them the opportunity to go and gather information… and equip yourself with information just in case you run into a situation where there’s an opioid emergency within your household,” Smith shares adding that the spray is easy to have on hand whether it’s in your home, vehicle, or first-aid kits.
Through this, Smith hopes people will realize that they can assist and help save a life at any point in time.
The 54-year-old has also utilized his personal experiences as a way to have essential conversations with his family members about the