Assorted Letters 8-24-23

Amy Todd’s Son

Dear Governor Kay Ivey,
I am writing to you today to introduce you to my son, Nicholas Zirlott, who will forever be 21 years of
age even though he was born in 2001. He was lost to us because of a dose of fentanyl. He lost his
battle with mental health illness and addiction on Sept 23, 2022.
Nicholas was not always troubled by these problems. He was actually a very happy kid until his
teenage years. He was small for his age, but his personality was so large that it made up for what he
lacked in stature.
At a young age he already showed signs of being a service to his community. My son spent the
majority of his weekends at the local Volunteer Fire Department where he was an inspiration to his
adult leaders. He advanced and was given his own Fire Fighter uniform. In Middle School came the
induction into the Jr Honor Society with learning coming easy to him without really studying. Nicholas
always had a good firm handshake, gave the best hugs, and was the first to take up for the “under
dog” or for those that were being bullied. In Jr High Nic became part of the School Band making it to
first chair with solo parts in concert. Later he joined ROTC and was a highly awarded Cadet for a time.
Mental health Issues reared its ugly head at around 16 years of age and led to many trips to a variety
of rehab facilities and eventually to a couple incarcerations in Mobile Co Jail for minor offenses. At 21
years of age our family lost this sweet, loving young man to his battle with mental health issues and
addiction that led to an overdose of fentanyl.
As Governor of Alabama, I know that you are an advocate for making mental health help more
available. Your constituents and their children need to be educated about the dangers that fentanyl
presents. We are losing a whole generation of people and no one but the grieving families, seem to
even know that it is happening.
As I am sure you are aware, there is a physical memorial wall full of thousands of beautiful faces that
have been lost to the fentanyl in the DEA building in Washington DC. Sadly, they have run out of room
to display and honor the many that are dying daily.
We have created two memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Nicholas’
frame, below. I am also including the brochure of virtual memorial walls, albums, and our awareness
campaign. These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos
displayed in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch
their loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims.
As an Ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall I ask that you assist us in finding a
permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol.
Sincerely,
Amy Todd, Nicholas Zirlott’s mom
Dauphin Island, AL

Jennifer M Thrift’s Son

Dear Governor Kay Ivey,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, PVT Tyler
Duncan who is forever 20. He was poisoned by fentanyl, and I remain devastated. I loved him
beyond imagination. Tyler was the kindest, tender, loving, gentle, sincere, and most
compassionate person I have ever known. He always saw the good in others and always
thought everyone deserved a second chance. His heart was bigger than the entire world.
My son PVT Tyler Duncan was active military at the time of his passing. He was stationed in
Washington State at Fort Lewis-McCord Joint Base. At the time of my son’s death (PVT Tyler
Duncan) he was the second soldier at that base within the same week that died. PVT Tyler
Duncan was born and raised in Alabama (Notasulga, AL). PVT Tyler Duncan was/is someone’s
son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend. He was my son and my world. My world changed
forever when I lost my heart on April 25, 2021.
Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within
our Capitol? We have created two memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am
including PVT Tyler Duncan’s frame, below. I am also including the brochure of virtual
memorial walls, albums, and our awareness campaign.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hardcopy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many, many others. Now, they are victims
of Chinese and the Mexican Cartels. We are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice toward
drug users - like racism.
A group of our Alabama moms would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this
from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Jennifer M Thrift, Notasulga, AL
PVT Tyler Duncan’s Mom Forever 20
Gone But Never Forgotten

Sandra Cook Estell’s Son

Dear Governor Kay Ivey,
My name is Sandra Cook Estell. This is my oldest son Curtis James Cook. On January, 25, 2023 I
lost him to fentanyl poisoning. Like so many he didn’t know that he was playing Russian
roulette with his life. He was a sweet and loving person and would do anything for anyone.
Very smart and funny, loved his family and friends and we all loved him right back. He never
married and was my first-born son, born the day after my birthday. There are no words to
express my heartbreak over losing him. No parent should have to go through this.
I am writing you this letter in the hopes that you will help me, and many other parents spread
the word about the dangers of fentanyl. We have some great ladies that have put together
pictures of each child that has been lost into a memorial frame, and those pictures are being
made into a memorial wall for our state. We are asking that we can get your permission to
have the memorial wall placed in the State Capitol building to bring awareness to the public.
Also, if there are other ways, we can raise awareness we are here to help get it out there.
Billboards, infomercials, and in schools (especially in schools). Also having available to the
public fentanyl testing strips and Narcan. If this is available to the public, it could save lives. It
could’ve saved my son and hundreds of others. People need to understand the magnitude of
deaths due to fentanyl that occurs each hour of each day. We are losing an entire generation
to this poison.
Please, help us help our kids and our country!
Sincerely,
Sandra Cook Estell
Curtis J. Cook’s mom forever 38

Phyllis and John Wheeler’s Son

Dear Governor Kay Ivy,
I am the mother of Cody Poole. I would like to tell you a little about Cody’s background. My
husband and I adopted Cody as an infant. He is our biological grandson, born to our middle
daughter at the age of 16. Cody’s father was killed in an automobile accident before Cody’s
birth. My husband and I raised Cody as parents and grandparents. At the time of Cody’s birth
our youngest daughter was eight years old. They were best friends growing up and had a
brother and sister bond. At the age of 24 my daughter was killed in an automobile accident.
Cody was 16 years old, confused and emotionally broken. He turned to marijuana and Xanax
to cope with his pain. My husband and I were unaware, we too were broken and trying to
cope. Cody‘s drug use spiraled out of control, by the time he was 24 years old. He was a drug
addict. Cody went to at least five rehabs: tried cold turkey, natural remedies and yes, prayers
with each failed attempt Cody was ashamed, apologetic, broken and felt worthless, and with
each failed attempt the drug dealers were there preying and waiting for Cody‘s weakest
moment .Cody was sentenced to 48 days in jail for a probation violation in December of 2022.
He was released on 2/2/23,the last time we saw Cody was 2/5/23. He was dropped off at a
drug dealer’s house by a friend that day. Cody lived one week after his release. As I stated
earlier the drug dealers were there waiting eagerly, but this time the drug dealer supplied
Cody with a deadly dose of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Cody lived in a tiny house on our
property, that’s where my husband found him 2/8/23 no drugs no drug paraphernalia so
basically, they gave him the deadly dose and dropped him off at home to die.
Cody was the most loving kindhearted person I’ve ever known, but he was also an addict and
of course he acted out of character under the influence, but never once was he disrespectful
to my husband or myself. It took Cody’s death and research to understand addiction is a
disease and until we all realize that and get the justice, we and they deserve by holding the
drug dealers accountable for their actions, “Drug Induced Homicide”, it’s not going to stop.
My child is a victim. He didn’t plan or intend on becoming an addict. He was drawn in and
became a victim of the drug dealers. I pray that our state of Alabama will honor my child and
all victims of addiction with a Drug Epidemic memorial wall. A fallen warrior is still a warrior
and weakness doesn’t equal wickedness. My prayer is the memorial wall will also serve as a
tool for awareness concerning drugs, and specifically fentanyl “America’s deadly epidemic”.
Thank you for taking time to read some of Cody’s story. Our hearts are forever broken, our life
will never be normal again. We’re prayerfully awaiting a decision.
Respectfully,
Phyllis and John Wheeler, parents of Cody Poole Forever loved, forever missed, forever 31
Mobile, Alabama

Crystal Daugherty’s Brother

Dear First Lady Tracey Carney,
I am writing to you as an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. My family’s home state is
MD but my brother passed away in DE. His death is what leads me to contacting you.
My brother's name is Gary Edward Koch. He is forever 37. He was the youngest of 3 children. Our
family has honestly had a very bumpy road. We lost our father to alcoholism at the young age of 50,
our parents had divorced when Gary was 4yrs old. We also lost our mother to multiple myeloma at
the young age of 59. That is a lot, Gary has struggled with addiction going back to his teen years. He
was in and out of jail as well. Now from what I've said so far, many think "oh he was just another
addict". As his sister for the entire 37 years of his life, I can tell you, that is very untrue. He had a
genuine personality, a heart bigger than most, a hilarious sense of humor, a great friend, father, son,
brother, and uncle.
Now, having an addict in the family causes a lot of stress. I will admit I was hard on my brother a lot. I
did tough love for many years. I have even taken him to court for stealing from me during his
addiction. I did this as a mother trying to protect my children. This caused turmoil with our mother.
She enabled my brother, but I cannot blame her, I would do anything for my children as well. After
our mother passed, I was Gary's “go to”. We have a 6yr age difference, so I've always been a second
mom to him anyway.
The loss of Gary has really hit me hard. He passed on 2/7/22. We were in contact periodically, we had
a group text, that consisted of him, our older sister and me. It wasn't normal to not hear from Gary
for more than a week. On 1/31/22, I went into work in a panic. I had a sick sense something was
wrong; I hadn't heard from him since 1/18/22. I reached out to a few points of contacts he had and
was just told he wasn't doing well the last they heard. My sister and I continued our search by calling
hospitals to see if he was admitted. We had nothing. The night of 2/7/22, I received a call from Gary's
ex-wife saying she just heard from someone that he OD'D earlier in the day and they were unable to
save him. I can tell you; I was on my kitchen floor screaming "no" "please no Gary" and crying
inconsolably. My sister called the medical examiner, and our nightmare was confirmed.
Addiction lies, cheats, & steals. It makes the addict mimic that behavior and it then kills the addict. I
have walked around in a fog since 2/7/22, my chest feels like I've been punched in it, I continue to
feel guilt and have nightmares of me trying to save him and failing. Those nightmares feel so very raw,
brutal and vivid they stick with me all day long. I have so much love for my brother that is stuck inside
me. I cry often and out of the blue.
Please help find a spot for a wall to be displayed. Dealers need to be charged for homicide in my
opinion. How they sell these drugs and walk free is unreal to me. They stole my brother; his son and
daughter are now without him. He has missed so much and hasn't been gone for 2 years yet.
Thank you for taking time to read this. I am very passionate about overdose awareness and have a
strong belief this epidemic needs serious attention for a change to happen.
Together these families and the state leaders can make a difference!
Sincerely,
Crystal Daugherty, Baltimore, MD

Kelly N Hobbs’ Daughter

Dear First Lady Teresa Little,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful daughter,
Shelby who is forever 26. She was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. We loved
her beyond imagination. Shelby was the kindest and most empathetic person I have ever
known.
I know you have children and grandchildren. Would you assist us in finding a permanent
location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two
memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Shelby’s frame, below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so parents can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many, many others. Now, they are victims
of Chinese and the Mexican Cartels. Many are also victims of a fatal disease like cancer. We
are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice toward drug users - like racism.
Others and myself would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this from
happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Kelly N Hobbs,
Caldwell, ID

Marla Martenka’s Son

Dear First Lady Teresa Little,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. My first-born son was taken, Matthew, on
August 3, 2022, at the age of forever 34. He was found by a stranger a block away from the Sober
house he was living in. We were not notified until August 6th. Matthew died from fentanyl poisoning.
He was found with a partial M30 which was laced with fentanyl. His death was a complete shock. He
had been sober for over a year and the night before we were talking about our plans about rebuilding
our business and buying a home and how badly he wanted to rebuild his relationship with the love of
his life and 4 girls.
Matthew was a hardworking man, a loving dad, an awesome brother, fantastic uncle and the best son
ever. He made me proud to be his mom. Everyone Matthew met only had positive things to say about
him. I miss him so much, his craziness, his smile, and the way he was always there taking care of me. I
am not the only one that misses him. His daughters Layla 7, Adalea 4, Paisley 10 and stepdaughter,
Lauren 12. Their lives were turned upside down and a year later they are still having nightmares. His
death created a loss for more than our family, but to his friends, or as they said, “brothers and sisters
from another mother” and his co-workers. There are no descriptors for the loss his brothers, sisters,
nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and children are experiencing. The grief at times is unspeakable,
unbearable and unstoppable. We moved to Idaho in 2005 from Portland Oregon. Thinking we were
moving to a safer place. Little did we know.
Matthew’s drug addiction spans almost 14 years. It all began with a major knee surgery and the
doctors at the time were prescribing opioids for pain with no real idea of the addictive nature of the
drugs. He would get sober and be doing great then all of a sudden, he was using again. Fentanyl is not
only a danger to opioid addicts but to anyone who uses any drug bought on the street.
Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our
Capitol? We have created two memorial walls. I am including Matthew’s frame, below. These digital
walls update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed in hard copy format. The number
of names on the wall is growing daily.
We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue Pharma (an
American cartel) and many others. Now, they are victims of the Chinese criminal networks and the
Mexican Cartels. We are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice toward drug users.
Idaho families would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this from happening ever
again.
Sincerely,
Marla Martenka, mother of Matthew Parker Forever34
Coeur D Alene Idaho

Roberta Lopez’s Son

Dear First Lady Teresa Little,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, Nikolas,
who is forever 30. He was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. We loved him
beyond imagination. Nikolas was the kindest and most empathetic person I have ever known.
I know you have children and grandchildren. Would you assist us in finding a permanent
location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two
memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Nikolas’s frame below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so parents can touch their
loved one's name.
We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue
Pharma (an American cartel) and many, many others. Now, they are victims of the Chinese and
the Mexican Cartels. Many are also victims of fatal diseases like cancer. We are using the word
“drugism” for the prejudice toward drug users - like racism.
A group of our Idaho families would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this
from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Roberta Lopez
Nampa, Idaho

Teresa Palin’s Daughter

Dear First Lady Teresa Little,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. I lost my daughter Bethanee Cook,
who is forever 28. She was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. Bethanee was an
amazing girl. She had suffered great trauma and was finally getting the help she needed. A
relapse should not have ended her life, it only should have started the process over for her.
We loved her beyond imagination. Bethanee was the kindest, most empathetic girl I have ever
known. She was a manager at her job and people would come to her store just to see her
because she had such a great personality and laugh. She was a phenomenal mom! Her 6-yearold
daughter found her and will now have to live without her world-her mom and with those
horrible memories.
Would you please assist us in finding a location for a permanent Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall
either within our Capitol building or another state building in Boise? We have created two
memorial digital walls, one with pictures and one with names. I am including Bethanee's frame
below. These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos
displayed permanently in hard copy in our state Capitol. We request that our loved ones be
treated like the victims they are. They are the victims of the pharmaceutical industry and many
others trading their lives for greed. Now they are the victims of China, India and the Mexican
drug cartels. Many of these are the victims of a deadly condition called substance use disorder
(SUD). There is still so much judgment against those suffering with SUD. Please help us
overcome this. A group of parents from Idaho would love to meet with you and work together
to keep this from happening to other families.
Sincerely,
Teresa Palin, Bethanee Cook's mother
Pinehurst, Shoshone county, Idaho

Julie K. Berndt’s Daughter

Dear First Lady Britainy Beshear,
I am the state lead for Kentucky and ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. I lost my only
child, my beautiful 20-year-old daughter, Faith from fentanyl poisoning February 17, 2022. I was
aware that she smoked weed and drank alcohol. She suffered from mental illness since she was 14,
and she took prescribed medication for that as well. She had a difficult time meeting friends because
she was very self-conscious and never thought that she "fit in". I really believe that whoever sold her
the pill laced with fentanyl, knew that, and they took advantage of her. I know for a fact that she
would never knowingly take fentanyl, regardless of what she was going through or feeling at the time.
She was a junior at the University of Louisville, Louisville, KY where she was due to graduate, May
2023, with a double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice. She was a great student and no matter
what she went through, her studies were always at the top of her list. I believe she was going to do
great things and she would have left a lasting impression on all who met her. She lived in an
apartment with 3 other girls in a complex across the street from the University of Louisville. She died
alone in her room, while sitting cross legged on her bed, with her laptop on her lap and her phone in
her hand. According to the coroner, she likely died within minutes.
Since she was born, it was her and I against the world. She was and always will be my "Baby Bear"!
We struggled for many years, but I always tried to do what I could for her and give her the best that I
could. She was such a kind, loving person, who could light up a room with her beautiful smile and
infectious laugh. We shared such a special bond that was unique to just us! She was a beautiful
person both inside and out, and those who truly loved her knew what an amazing person she was. I
will never hear her say, "Mommy, I love you" again, and that just breaks my heart.
I know that you have children, and you would want the best for them. Would you assist us in finding a
permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two
memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Faith's frame below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed in hard
copy format. The walls of names can be projected on a wall so parents can touch their loved one’s
name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue
Pharma (an American cartel) and many others. Now they are victims of Chinese and Mexican Cartels.
We are using the word " drugism" for the prejudice toward drug users- like racism.
A group of our Kentucky moms would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this from
happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Julie K. Berndt, Kentucky state lead Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall
Florence, KY

Daphine Smith’s Daughter

Dear First Lady Britainy Beshear,
My name is Daphine Smith, and I’m writing to implore you to help us place a Memorial Wall, in
Kentucky, for victims of the drug epidemic, either in the Capitol building, or somewhere on the
premises.
This means so much to me because I lost my only daughter, Macie, on September 28, 2021 to
fentanyl poisoning. I remember that day like it was yesterday. I received a text message (which, by the
way, is the worst way to get this kind of news) that forever changed my life.
Macie was a bright, beautiful, caring young lady, with a future ahead of her. It was all stolen one
evening when she decided she was leaving her abusive boyfriend. Except she never left! Instead, she
was given something that was laced with fentanyl, and was left to die all alone. Deep down in my
heart, I know, without a doubt that her boyfriend knowingly killed her. It would explain why he waited
1-1/2 hours before he texted 911, and waited 3 to 4 hours after he “found” her, before he texted me.
Why would someone wait so long if it wasn’t intentional? If it was an accident, you would want to get
help as soon as possible. He also made sure the police got the wrong phone so there could be no
evidence of anything that took place the night before. I tell you this so that you can get a glimpse of
what I must live with every day.
Macie wasn’t just my daughter she was my best friend. She also was a big sister to two little boys
whose lives have been forever changed and who miss their sister more than you could ever imagine.
They are traumatized by that day just as much as her father and I. Anyone who knew Macie could tell
you how kind, loving and bighearted she was. She wanted the best for everyone. She had the most
amazing blue eyes, and a smile that would light up a room. And a laugh that was so contagious. I will
never get to see those eyes or see that smile or hear that laugh, or to hear her say, “Mama, I love
you” and that breaks my heart.
I know you have children, and you would want nothing but the best for them, so could you please
assist us in finding a permanent location for a drug epidemic memorial wall within our Capitol?
There’s been two memorial walls created, one with photos and one with names. There’s a virtual
memorial wall for every state. Every day families submit their loved ones' photos; each state has an
ambassador working hard to get a memorial wall placed in their State Capitol. Can we be the first
state and set the standard for others to follow?
The digital walls update automatically but we would like photos displayed in a hardcopy format. The
walls of names could be projected on the wall so parents and other loved ones could touch the
names of those we lost. We want our loved ones treated like victims. Because most of them are
victims of this horrible epidemic, and they did not overdose, they were poisoned. They were given a
false substance in place of what they thought they were taking. Just one wrong choice, meant death,
and as a result, never ending grief for those left behind. Won’t you help us honor our loved ones by
helping find a home for a permanent Memorial Wall? A group of Kentucky moms would love to meet
with you and work together to prevent this from ever happening again.
Sincerely,
Daphine Smith, mother of Macie Nicole Smith, Forever 20, Cerulean, KY

Laura Graven’s Son

Dear First Lady Britainy Beshear,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, Braxton in
May of 2020 - forever 32. He was poisoned by fentanyl and our family remains devastated.
Braxton was the kindest and biggest hearted person that I have ever known.
I know you have children and so totally know that you can empathize. We would love to have
your assistance in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our
Capitol. We have created two Memorial Walls – one with photos and one with names. I have
included Braxton’s picture below.
The digital walls and albums would update automatically. We would also like the photos
displayed in hard copy format. Many of our loved ones were victims of Purdue Pharma and
now victims of Chinese and Mexican cartels. They did not deserve to die this way. On June 13,
2022, the Commonwealth of Kentucky reported that 2,250 Kentuckians died of overdoses in
2021 with 70 % of them attributed to fentanyl. Those numbers, as you know, have increased
since then.
A group of Kentucky moms would love to meet with you and work together to honor the
countless innocent lives lost in the silent drug war. Thank you in advance for your
consideration.
Laura Graven
Louisville, KY 40222

Elizabeth Eaton’s Son

Dear First Lady, Britainy Beshear,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, Ricky Eaton
who is forever 38. He was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. We loved him
beyond imagination. Ricky was the kindest and most empathetic person I have ever known.
I know you have children and are quite active with some of Kentucky’s most vulnerable
children.
Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within
our Capitol? We have created two memorial Walls. One with photos and one with names. I am
including Ricky’s frame, below. I am also including the brochure of virtual memorial walls,
albums, and our awareness campaign.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many others. Now, they are victims of
Chinese and the Mexican Cartels. We are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice toward
drug users - like racism.
A group of our Kentucky moms would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this
from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Eaton
Louisville, KY

Heather Leier’s Son

Dear First Lady Kathryn Burgum,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, Steven
Andrist, who is forever 27. He was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. We loved
him beyond imagination. Steven was the kindest and most empathetic person I have ever
known. He was my only son, first born and only brother to my daughters Emily and Addyson.
Our lives will forever miss out on opportunities others get with their sons or brothers and our
holidays will forever be tinged with sadness.
I know you have children and grandchildren. Would you assist us in finding a permanent
location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two
memorial walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Steven’s frame, below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many, many others. Now, they are victims
of Chinese and the Mexican Cartels. We are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice toward
drug users - like racism.
A group of our North Dakota moms would love to meet with you and work together to prevent
this from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Heather Leier
Minot, ND

Shannon Sayers & Rick Miller’s
Daughter & Son

Dear First Lady Suzanne Pillen,
I am an ambassador and the NE State Lead for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. We lost 2 of our
children Pheonix Cheyenne Baker forever 27, and Ricky Allen Miller III forever 28. They were poisoned
by fentanyl. We are devastated and completely broken. We loved our children beyond imagination.
Our children lived to the fullest. They both had very good jobs, Pheonix had just bought a house and
had a nice car. They traveled, they conquered their goals, they received a great education and most
importantly they had unconditional love and support in all they have pursued. Ricky started his
family and had a baby girl, Alana. They were truly special, everyone loved them, and they loved back
even more. Their services were attended by hundreds of people, every skin color, and all walks of life,
cultural and lifestyle choices flooding out the doors.
Being a good parent is a selfless act. It is an act of truly loving outside of oneself. To lose a child,
especially to lose a child to murder, is an agony so consuming, so dark, that your brain cannot and will
not comprehend. It invades your sleep and haunts your will to live. Real loss is only possible when
you love something more than you love yourself. Those of us who love Pheonix and Ricky know what
real loss is.
We do not know where our children are. If they're safe, warm or if they're afraid. We do not know if
they can hear our voices or hear us cry when the pain is unbearable. We do not know if they know
just how much we loved them. My belief is they're in the warm, loving and protective embrace of
God.
Pheonix and Ricky's brothers and sisters will always wonder what great things they're doing. Who
would their spouses have been? They will never have that nitpicking every day at each other. They
will never have the contests of who the best kids were and who loved them most. Sisters need their
sisters; brothers need their brothers; they are one's best friends. There are no more sleepovers at
Auntie Pheonix's or Uncle Ricky's for their nieces and nephews.
Would you please assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within
our Capitol or another State Building in Lincoln? We have created two digital Memorial Walls. One
with photos and one with names. I am including Pheonix and Ricky’s frame, below. These digital walls
and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed permanently in hard copy
format in our State Capitol. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of the Pharmaceutical Industry. Now, they are victims of China, India and the Mexican Cartels.
Many were victims of a deadly condition called Substance Use Disorder. We are using the word
“drugism” for the judgment toward people with SUD
.
A group of our Nebraska parents would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this from
happening to other families.
Sincerely,
Shannon Sayers and Rick Miller
Pheonix and Ricky’s mom and dad, Superherosx7@gmail.com

Andrea Garver’s Son

Dear First Lady Aimee Wilson,
My name is Andrea Garver, and I am a grieving mother from Texas. My son, Jac Conde, fell in
love with and proudly called Oregon his home, he also lost his life in Oregon to one pill tainted
with fentanyl. I am going to tell you part of his story and hope that in doing so you have a
better understanding from a parent’s point of view of the fentanyl crisis that is affecting our
country and is in your backyard.
On January 31,2021 I received a frantic call from my son’s girlfriend. She was crying and
hysterically telling me that EMTs were trying to save my son’s life. My son who had a smile that
could light up a room and have you in the palm of his hands with a thoughtful gesture, my son
the chef and comedian who only wanted everyone to smile, my son who suffered from
anxiety and panic attacks but only wanted everyone around him happy, my son who
celebrated his 29th birthday on January 13th and meant the world to me…was not breathing.
I can’t tell you how long I was on this call. I can tell you that my training in healthcare kicked in
and I was able to maintain a level of composure to hear everything that was happening on the
other end of the line even though I felt like I was in a surreal tunnel. I could hear the inflection
of trauma as his girlfriend and her family were yelling at him to breathe begging for him to not
be gone. I could hear the EMTs unpackaging their gear and attempting to revive my son. My
heart was breaking with every second that passed and when I heard the EMT stop to
pronounce his death, I realized I heard my sons last breath.
I was shaking uncontrollably, and my husband was at my side asking me if he was gone
through tears of his own. I spoke with an EMT and asked for details, to explain to me what
happened. I was told that they treated him as an opioid overdose because there were Xanax
pills in his pocket, and they attempted to give Narcan and CPR to no avail. As the young man I
was talking to voice waivered he apologized to me for my son’s death. I remember with such
clarity how worried I was that the young man would be traumatized he wasn’t able to save my
son. I don’t remember the call ending or how I was screaming from the depths of my soul at
the loss of my son as my husband mourned with me. But I can tell you that the loss of my son
continually haunts my dreams and waking hours.
My beautiful funny child was gone and all I could think of was how can a Xanax pill kill
someone I was in shock. In the time after that call, I found out through the police detectives on
the case that they were labeling his death as an accidental overdose. In my mind, who dies
from Xanax? This makes no sense he didn’t overdose by taking a bunch of pills, he had one pill,
you don’ t die from 1 pill. I had never even heard of illicit fentanyl. I was told that fentanyl was
being added to street Xanax and other drugs to make a stronger addiction to the opioids on

the street. That’s not an overdose, that is poisoning. I also found out that in Oregon there
were no laws in place that would allow for the conviction of the drug dealer my son found on
Snapchat. It’s not illegal to use drugs in your state and of course, there was a person of
interest, but no proof (Snapchat is a whole other issue), with no laws equal to a conviction.
The person that sold the tainted pill, that poisoned and killed my child is free to do as they
please. I would say it’s safe to assume more people died because of that individual. That
person didn’t just poison my son that day, he killed all the hopes and dreams that we had for
our only child. We will never know what his future could have been, we will never be
grandparents, our Jac is gone from us forever.
That dealer and the criminal element that he was a part of didn’t just kill my son, they
devastated and destroyed our families and friends. Yes, my son made a deadly mistake that
day, one that he can’t come back from. A mistake that is made every day by people of all walks
of life. Education and laws need to be in place to raise awareness and hold those people killing
our children accountable for their actions. 200 plus a day are dying from fentanyl poisoning,
that’s a reported fact. We cared more about Covid responses than we do about a factual
number of individuals dying from fentanyl poisoning. Help me understand why?
The only thing that is keeping me somewhat sane in the years since losing my son is being a
part of the grassroot efforts along with other parents who have suffered the same loss in
raising awareness of the dangers of fentanyl.
I am asking for your help in assisting us with finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic
Memorial Wall within our Capitol. We have created two memorial walls, one with photos, and
one with names. I am including Jacob’s frame, below. These digital walls and albums update
automatically. We would also like the photos displayed in hard copy format. The wall of names
can be projected onto a wall so families can touch their loved one's name. We would like our
loved ones to be treated like victims as none of them deserved to die this way by being
unknowingly poisoned.
Sincerely,
Andrea Garver
#jacforever29

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Christina Boyd’s Husband

Dear First Lady Aimee Wilson,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. I lost my husband, of 26 years,
Deyna Boyd, on May 4,2020 at the age of forever 53. I was working from home, and I had a
strange feeling come over me to get up and check on my husband, which I never felt the urge
to do before. I found him dead on my back porch. His life was taken at the hands of his best
friend unknowingly giving him 2 pills. Deyna died of fentanyl poisoning, thinking he was taking
something else. His death was a complete shock to his family and friends. That day the entire
neighborhood was sent into shock by my screaming followed by DEA, Police, Fire and rescue
trucks all arriving at my house. I lost it when I saw the label on the shirt that read “Chaplin”. I
was in shock. I mourn his loss daily in my life. I met him when I was a teen and fell in love only
to find him again years later. Unfortunately, it happened in a time of all of our lives the
Pandemic did not help at all I could not properly bury my husband and no funerals were really
allowed more than 10 people. I have tried to pick up my life and continue on, but my heart and
soul was forever ripped out of my body that day.
Deyna was an intelligent man, he had two beautiful children in their mid-20’s when it
happened, and they are still in shock and mourn his loss every day. He was charismatic, an
amazing fisherman, handyman, father, son, brother, best friend to so many people. He was the
one who was like glue in a family. He was so sweet and kind; would do anything for anyone. I
miss his laugh, he had the absolute best heart felt laugh and was always an upbeat person. He
could fix anything, he was a hardworking man, his smile was contagious. He was Dad to Kyle,
27, and Paije ,25. His death created a loss for more than our family, and forever changed the
family structure now. The grief at times is unspeakable, unbearable and unstoppable. I cry all
the time still relive that day in my head.
Too many lives to this epidemic have been lost, and I am committed to ending these losses and
honoring my husband, other’s lives and memories. I wish no one ever must go through this.
Our children need to know the dangers presented to them daily around this epidemic. My
husband was one of those that began addiction from an injury at work, he was then given a RX
for an Opioid, OxyContin. Which he continued to take as prescribed and abused, for way too
long. That is another subject that needs to be addressed. We need to address the grieving of
all these families. I’m hopeful as a wife you will understand the urgency I and countless other
families in Oregon feel towards ending this epidemic, educating our children, & addressing the
use of substance users as well as those in grief.

Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within
our Capitol? We have created two memorial walls. One with photos & one with names. These
digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed in hard
copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their loved
one's name.
We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue
Pharma (an American cartel) and many others. Now, they are victims of the Chinese criminal
networks and the Mexican Cartels. Families of Oregon would love to meet with you & work to
prevent this from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Christina Boyd, Wife of Deyna Boyd, FE53
Cornelius, OR

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Diana Benson’s Son

Dear First Lady of Oregon, Aimee Wilson,
I am Diana Benson, mother of Connor Perkins, forever 24. I lost my beautiful boy on April 14,
2022, one week after his 24th birthday. The night of his death started at approximately 9:00
pm. He and a friend of his purchased the fentanyl from a Motel 8. According to his friend that
survived the incident, they were both out within 10 minutes. One thing I’d like to mention is
that Connor saved this boy’s life about a month earlier. His landlord told me that Connor gave
him CPR for 45 minutes until the paramedics arrived. I’m forever distraught by the fact that
Connor didn’t learn his lesson by that incident. Another thing that just absolutely breaks my
heart is that another tenant heard moaning coming from Connors unit But didn’t act on it until
approximately 2:00 pm the next day. Connor was pronounced dead later that evening. Tears
flow rapidly as I think about my beautiful boy lying on the floor for nearly 20 hours before help
arrived, but it was too late for Connor. Connor died of fentanyl poisoning. This is the worst pain
I’ve ever felt in my life. This pain never goes away. I can’t believe he is gone every single
moment of every single day. 2 years before Connors death his dad died as well. My heart is
broken as it can never be fixed when a mother loses a child. Connor has an older brother.
Telling him that he had now lost his brother just a short time after losing his father was the
most difficult thing for me to have to do.
Connor was a late talker and a slow learner. He struggled in school through 12th grade. Luckily,
he had some great teachers and graduated with his class in 2017. I graduated from college the
same year. We were both graduates in 2017 and we enjoyed sharing that together. When he
went to SE Tech to study autobody, he found his calling. He was so proud that he was doing
work that he enjoyed. At the time of his death, he had finally found a job he liked in Oregon.
He was working for Les Schwab working in an auto shop. He was so happy working there he
sent me silly videos he took of himself working on cars and driving them around at the shop.
He was also a wildfire fire fighter. He worked for a group called Dust Busters. He was happy to
help people and animals during fire season. He liked it so much that he was OK losing his job
every year to work with so many wonderful men and women. The kind of people that are
willing to lay down their lives to help fight fires. Connor is buried in his uniform. It was quite an
ordeal for me living in Minnesota going to Oregon to take care of his belongings and then to
California for his funeral. I so miss his silliness, his caring nature, his smile, and the sound of his
voice. I’d give anything to just hear his voice again or feel his hug. He is my son, my child, my
heart, and my life. He is loved and missed by my huge family and was just reconnecting with
his dad’s side of the family. He is the sweetest boy and always showed respect. There are no
words to describe this loss to his family, friends, and others who have been touched by my
amazing son. The grief at times is unspeakable, unbearable, and unstoppable.

In your role as an advocate, I and countless other mothers hope that you will understand the
urgency in ending this epidemic and educating our children of the dangers presented to them
daily. Can we count on you to find a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall
within the Capitol of Oregon? There are two memorial walls in each state, one with photos
and one with names. These digital memorial walls update regularly with new forever faces. We
are wanting the faces of this epidemic displayed in hard copy format. The wall of names can be
projected on a wall so parents can touch their loved one’s name. Our loved ones deserve to be
treated like victims of a real and horrifying reality. They are all victims of Purdue Pharma, the
American drug cartel. They are victims of the Chinese criminal networks and the Mexican
Cartels. The word “drugism” is being used for the prejudice towards drug users. I am the
mother of a beautiful boy that died too soon and would be honored to meet with you and
work together to prevent any more of our beautiful children to be lost to this epidemic. I am
including Connors photo. His frame is posted in California as he was born there, and I wanted
him buried with my family. He lived and died in Oregon. Please view Connor’s frame included.
This is how amazing my son is. How many people can say a wild bird came to them and landed
in their hand? This is Connor during one of his many firefighting tours.
Sincerely,
Diana Benson, broken mother of Connor Perkins, forever 24
Winona, MN

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Michele Stroh’s Son

Dear First Lady Aimee Wilson,
His name was Keaton Richard Stroh. He was only 25 years old.
Keaton was my 3rd of 5 beautiful children. He was a spit fire of a middle child and he loved life.
He was very social and he was a gifted athlete. He excelled in his goals and was loved by all
who knew him.
During sports he suffered 3 major head concussions and track injuries and the worst long
board crash, all of which landed him countless scripts for Oxycodone. He graduated and
became lethargic in his thirst for life. We did our best to parent him through this “post high
school, what am I going to do with my life” stage and encouraged him to dream big. He came
home and announced he was leaving to become a U.S. Marine.
Keaton absolutely thrived as a Marine! His quest for life returned with crushing goals and
receiving awards. He was one of six Marines granted a special humanitarian mission to travel
the world. deployment came with many unknown factors and he started drinking. Eventually,
he would be separated from the Marines and sent home for help.
He returned to his job at UPS and once again, he buckled down and was making his goals.
Once he achieved a driver position, I stopped worrying. He struggled with his oxy addiction
and we had no idea it was even happening. He suffered an overdose that literally left him
knocking on heaven’s door. By the grace of God, he was given a second chance.
Our entire family wrapped around him and sent him to the best rehab available. We even
attended the family counsel sessions to be educated in what was happening.
The pandemic happened- rehabs were closed and he was sent home- where our state closed
meetings, gyms, rehabs, doctor’s visits and I watched the life leave his eyes. He went for a bike
ride and his friend met him at our local park- the friend gave him 3 oxy pills to take the edge
off as he was preparing to return to rehab. He took one pill at approximately 3 am on July
21,2020.
I found him dead at 2:37 pm dead. Sitting on his bed. His autopsy took 20 weeks, and he only
took 1 pill and there was zero oxy in his system. His pill was fentanyl and carfentanyl. His pill
had so much that it would have killed 11 men. He never stood a chance. We had never heard
of fentanyl or fake pills. What would I give to go back in time and stop this from happening? He
didn’t deserve death.

It’s just shy of 3 years and now everyone is speaking about the fentanyl epidemic and the fake
pills and still, nothing is being done to stop the crisis. It is beyond time to acknowledge the
victims in these murderous poisonings due to the fake fentanyl pills. There continue to be
many more young adults falling to death from this epidemic.
I am the Oregon State Lead for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. Would you assist us in
finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have
created two memorial Walls. One with photos and one with names.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many others. Now, they are victims of the
Chinese criminal networks and the Mexican Cartels.
Sincerely,
Michele Stroh, Oregon State Lead
Oregon City, OR

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Kim Minten’s Son

Dear First Lady Aimee Wilson,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. I lost my son, Courage, on July 5, 2022, at
age 23 to fentanyl poisoning. Courage graduated from high school in 2020 in Oregon and had just
moved home after finishing flight school in Florida. He was looking for flight jobs to gain hours to
become a commercial airline pilot. This was his lifelong dream. He had an interview for a job in Texas
and after he passed away, they contacted him for a second interview.
Courage went out with friends in Salem and had come home late and was sleeping on the couch. My
husband and I walked by him all morning not realizing that anything was wrong, until he let out a
gasp and we called the paramedics. He spent 4 days in cardiac ICU until the doctors declared him
brain dead and we knew we had lost him.
We found search history on his laptop that was next to him on the couch for “what are the side
effects of oxycodone”. We know he was checking the drug because of drug testing for a new flight
job. He was deceived and someone had given him a counterfeit oxy M30 pill. The pill had two times
the lethal dose of fentanyl. We don’t know why he took the “oxy” pill. We do know he was poisoned.
He made a mistake taking the pill and that mistake cost him his life.
Courage was a son, uncle, Godfather, brother, grandson, and friend. He lit up a room with his smile
and made everyone feel special. He met friends easily and from all over the world. We received
condolences from 5 continents, 16 countries and 17 US states after his passing. He survived poverty,
malnourishment, and hard times being born in a third world country. He was thriving in America
when his life was cut short by this deadly drug, illicit fentanyl, and the epidemic it is causing in
Oregon and the United States.
We must do better. We must educate Oregonians to the evils of this drug, the Mexican cartels who
are producing it, and the Chinese who are supplying the materials. Our children need to know the
dangers presented to them daily around this epidemic.
We must also remember those who have lost their lives. Would you assist us in finding a permanent
location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two memorial walls.
One with photos & one with names. I am including Courage’s frame, below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed in hard
copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so parents can touch their loved one's
name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like the victims that they are.
Oregon moms would love to meet with you & work to prevent this from happening ever again.
Sincerely,
Kim Minten
courage_forever23
Sublimity, Oregon

Wendy Rigsby’s Daughter

Dear First Lady Aimee Wilson,
My Name is Wendy Rigsby. I have lived in Oregon for 58 years. Our beautiful, athletic, fun
spirited, kind, loving 20-year-old daughter, Madolyn Grace, was poisoned by fentanyl. She was
sold 3 blue pill (M-30) the one she consumed, contained 25 ng/ml of the poison, on August 2,
2021, she was taken. The other 2 pills remained. Death was delivered to her home in
Murrayhill Beaverton. She left behind 2 brothers Andrew (33), and Cameron (32), 11 Aunts &
Uncles, 19 cousins and grandparents, and many teammates. There is not a day that goes by
that each of us doesn’t have a memory to share. Of course, Darren & I live with unbelievable
nightmares and sadness every day. She also adopted a cat that continues to meow and look
for her every day. It is so hard to continue living on this planet without her laugh, sense of
humor, and super sweet smile.
Her dad, my husband of 34 years, Darren, found her slumped over on her bed when he arrived
back home from work that day. He Immediately got her flat on her bedroom floor doing CPR
which he is trained to do, while trying to dial 911. He recollected she was blue, her face & her
nails. He called me on my cell phone, I work about 40 mins away and he was in absolute tears
& totally distressed. I could not understand what he was saying, finally I heard “They couldn’t
save her!” I was like who? What???? I thought it was one of our 4 pets. He said, “Madolyn”.
My heart just sunk all the way out of my body. She was the baby girl of the family…. The boys
were 9 & 10 years older than her. I always told her how special she was and she was our gift
from God, our miracle baby. We gave her the middle name of Grace which means gift from
God. She was athletic; she pitched a softball about 60 mph, she was on a travel team. We
went to many states and she showed her talent. I was so incredibly proud of my girl. She was
a Rhythm B, a Cheerleader at BHS, she volunteered at several food banks, Portland Rescue
Mission, and several Softball clinics.
We did research on our Ring camera and found who had sold her the pills. That person is
facing federal charges. We really would appreciate a place where we can go to honor her
presence on this planet, other than her grave in Cresent Grove cemetery in Tigard, OR. We
feel that education is key to prevention. Young kids and addicts need to know the dangers of
this horrible drug. They are being tricked and fooled that these pills are legal and safe to
ingest. Please help us help them. Would you please help us find a permanent location to
display a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We need to prevent any other
family from experiencing this horrible, tragic, unnecessary, and changing reality.
Sincerely heart broken,
Wendy Rigsby, mother of Madolyn Grace, forever 20 years
Beaverton, OR

Kathie Fischer’s Son

Dear First Lady Abby Cox,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my beautiful son, my baby
boy Jaryd, who is forever 32. He was poisoned by heroin and Kratom, and we are forever
devastated. We loved him beyond imagination. Jaryd was the kindest, most loving, giving,
compassionate person I have ever known.
I know you have children. You would understand a mother’s love. Would you please assist us in
finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol?
We have created two memorial Walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including
Jaryd's frame, below. I am also including the brochure of virtual memorial walls, albums, and
our awareness campaign.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
in hard copy format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so parents can touch their
loved one's name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all
victims of Purdue Pharma (an American cartel) and many, many others. Now, they are victims
of Chinese and the Mexican Cartels. We are using the word “drugism” for the prejudice
toward drug users - like racism.
Thank you,
Kathie Fischer
South Jordan, UT

Kimberly Y. Griffin’s Son

Dear First Lady Suzann Younkin,
My name is Kimberly Y. Griffin. I’m the grieving mother who lost her son due to an overdose of
the horrific opioid fentanyl. As a group member and ambassador for the Drug Epidemic
Memorial Walls,
I would like your assistance finding a permanent location for his memory to be honored with
the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within the Capitol.
Joseph Michael Travieso, reunites with his dad, the late Joseph Travieso Sr. Joey was a
graduate of Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake, VA. He later attended Tidewater Tech in
pursuit of receiving his welding degree. He worked many industrial labor jobs but his love for
auto body mechanics was his passion. His biggest interests were body painting, detailing,
repairing vehicles, and creating music. He was the dad to his six-year-old son, Joseph Michael
Jr. On his 27th birthday on October 9, 2019, his life ended suddenly because of the synthetic
opioid fentanyl. Joey was battling cocaine addiction with acute depression and was prescribed
medication to help subside his mental health breakdowns. Despite his painful passing, we
continue to keep his memory alive through his nonprofit, Support Joeys Heart, a hoodie
apparel JM Hoodies, and a magazine titled “Bully Motivational Magazine” that supports
mental health with testimonies of hope. His humble personality, shy energy, and beautiful
smile will never be forgotten. We love you, Joey!
Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall within
our Capitol? We have created two memorial walls. One with names & one with photos. I am
including Joey’s frame, below. We would also like the photos displayed in hard copy format.
The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their loved one's name. We
would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue Pharma
(an American cartel) & many others. Now, they are victims of the Chinese criminal networks
and the Mexican Cartels.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Y. Griffin, MPH, QMHP
Virginia Beach, VA

Lisa Mundy’s Son

Dear First Lady Suzann Younkin,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall. I lost my son Michael Mundy, who
is forever 26. He was poisoned by fentanyl, and we remain devastated. We loved him beyond
imagination.
Michael was the kindest and most empathetic person I have ever known. Michael was
talented, loved guitar, music and making people laugh. Michael will be forever missed.
Would you please assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug Epidemic Memorial Wall
within our Capitol or another State Building in Richmond? We have created two digital
Memorial Walls. One with photos and one with names. I am including Michael’s frame, below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos displayed
permanently in hard copy format in our State Capital. We would like our loved ones to be
treated like victims. They were all victims of the Pharmaceutical Industry and many others.
Now, they are victims of China, India, and the Mexican Cartels. Many were victims of a deadly
condition called Substance Use Disorder. We are using the word “drugism” for the judgment
toward people with SUD.
A group of our Virginia parents would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this
from happening to other families.
Sincerely,
Lisa Mundy, Michael’s mom
From Salem, Va, perished Roanoke, Va.

Brenda Rowe’s Daughter

Dear First Lady Suzann Younkin,
I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. I lost my youngest child of four
children to fentanyl poisoning. My child’s name is Abigail Leann Rowe and she’s forever 22. My
family and I are still devastated and traumatized by her death. Abbie, as we called her, was the
light of my life and my family’s. While she was the fourth child of mine, she was the only child
my husband had. So, her death has taken a toll on his health as well as mine. Mrs. Younkin, my
husband had a major heart attack on December 22,2022, the third one in all. This heart attack
was due to stress from grieving the loss of his only child. Eddie, my husband, Abbie’s dad is in
the end stages of heart failure. While grieving the loss of my daughter, I’m also grieving for her
dad as well.
Abbie was a bright, smart, funny, intelligent, outgoing, wild child. She was an old soul in a
young body. She touched so many lives but most importantly, she touched mine. You see
Abbie was not only my daughter but my best friend, too. When you see one, you’d definitely
see the other one, also. Abbie never met a stranger. She’d give you the shirt off her back. She
helped everyone while struggling herself. When you bury your child, you bury a piece of
yourself while you’re at it. When Abbie died, I died myself that November day in 2020.
Abbie was born December 28,1997 on a cold, snowy day. I was so nervous that night. I was
told by the doctors that she might not make it because her umbilical cord wrapped two times
around her neck and every time, I would have a contraction they’d lose her heartbeat. I told
her she had to fight to be born and I’d fight to keep her safe. She was born 12/28/1997
weighing 6 pounds and 4 ounces. I called her my little fighter. She fought to be born, fought
depression, fought to get out of an abusive situation only to be poisoned by a fake pill.
Abbie is the first thing on my mind when I wake up and she’s the last thing on my when I go to
bed. I pray every night that I see my baby in my dreams. Which of course I do, and I have had
numerous dreams of her.
I know you have children. Would you assist us in finding a permanent location for a Drug
Epidemic Memorial Wall within our Capitol? We have created two memorial walls. One with
photos and one with names. I am including Abigail’s frame below.
These digital walls and albums update automatically. We would also like the photos in hard
format. The wall of names can be projected on a wall so families can touch their loved one’s
name. We would like our loved ones to be treated like victims. They were all victims of Purdue
Pharma (an American Cartel) and many others. Now they are victims of the Chinese & Mexican
Cartels. We are trying to put an end to the word “overdose”. Because with overdose,

would have known what they were doing but with a fake pill like the imitation Percocet 30
Abbie got turned out was pure fentanyl. She was deceived to death. She didn’t know it was
pure fentanyl.
A group of Virginia Moms would love to meet with you and work together to prevent this from
ever happening again. We need to start protecting our children from this horrible disease. We
need to make sure Abbie’s death had a purpose or a reason not just a useless ending with no
meaning.
Sincerely,
Brenda Rowe (Abigail “Abbie’s Mama.”)
Patrick Springs, Virginia

Intentional Blank Page

Tonya Shifflett’s Son

Dear First Lady Suzann Younkin,
My name is Tonya Shifflett. I am an ambassador for the Drug Epidemic Memorial Walls. Our
goal is to put up a memorial wall in all 50 State Capitol complexes to honor our lost loved ones.
We are victims of the national drug epidemic.
My son, Austin was an avid fisherman and played baseball and football till he graduated from
high school. One thing about him I will always treasure was he had the biggest heart I ever
knew. He never forgot a birthday or holiday. He always came with gifts and ever since he was a
little boy he has bought me flowers for every holiday or occasion.
He never got the chance to get married, have kids and live life the way he wanted. He was
taken from me by fentanyl poisoning. I'm asking for your help please help us stop this
epidemic.
Would you also help us by remembering our loved ones with a Memorial Wall in honor of
them at our State Capitol?
Forever 21 Austin Harlow
Thanks,
Austin's Mom Tonya Shifflett
Ruckersville, VA

Awareness
Campaigns
School And Community Prevention Tools
I AM A FORCE FOR CHANGE - SCHOOL/COMMUNITY
PREVENTION TOOLS
Manual For Advocates
I AM A FORCE CHNAGE- PREVENTION MANUAL FOR ADVOCATES
Please feel free to share for awareness, prevention and memorials.
To be included on the Memorial Walls go to:
wall.drugepidemicmemorial.org

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