BREWER, Maine — About 200 people attended a candlelight vigil Friday night in memory of a Bangor man who died of a heroin overdose and others affected by opioid addiction.
The Bangor Area Recovery Network held the event for William Symonds and all people — users, loved ones and friends — affected by opioid abuse. The event at Doyle Field included a Circle of Caring challenge.
Symonds, who died at age 22 on May 6, was a 2012 Bangor High School graduate, played soccer and was on the swim team. He later joined the U.S. Army Reserves, but a wrist injury sidetracked him and started him on a path to addiction no one expected.
“We hope to encircle those suffering from opioid use disorder and their families with care, support and kindness,” Sheri Quatrale, Bangor Area Recovery Network board of directors chairwoman, said in a news release before the event. “Substance abuse, particularly opioid addiction, has adversely changed the landscape of our community. Heroin use is at an all-time high with deadly consequences. It has prematurely ended young lives, torn apart the fabric that holds families together, increased crimes and victimization and brought with it unsustainable social costs in health care, mortality and criminal justice.
“This truly is an epidemic that requires action,” she said.
The social media campaign Circle of Caring was launched by the Community Health Leadership Board, which is a group of health care providers, hospitals and city leaders, at the May 25 Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce’s Early Bird Breakfast.
With the Circle of Caring challenge, participants draw or create a circle with friends, loved ones or co-workers, sometimes holding hands, and post the picture or video on Facebook with #CaringCircle. Those interested in donating to help support those affected by opioid addiction can visit the Community Health Leadership Board’s website, bangorchlb.org.