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Things to Do

Miles4Meier annual 5K in Kennesaw raises awareness about opioid epidemic

On Aug. 10, 2016, Blake Meier overdosed in a West Palm Beach motel room. His mother Dawn Camarda and sister Catherine Meier talk about how the family fought for Blake for nearly 8 years. (By Hyosub Shin, Shelia Poole and Ryon Horne)
By Shelia Poole
Aug 7, 2018

Blake Meier died of an  overdose in a West Palm Beach motel room in 2016, but his friends and family are determined to help others beat their addictions.

Related: Doctors and the opiod crisis: A National Investigation

At 9 a.m. Saturday, the Miles4Meier 2nd Annual 5K run will be held at Kennesaw Mountain High School, 1898 Kennesaw Due West Rd. The event was started to honor and celebrate Meier's life and to raise awareness about the nation's growing opioid epidemic .

Related: Mother of man featured in opioid campaign: "God's in this somehow"

Proceeds will be donated in Meier’s name to charities that focus on fighting opioid addiction. Last year, the beneficiary was the Extension, a residential treatment facility for men and women who are homeless as a result of their addiction to drugs or alcohol.

On site registration begins at 8 a.m. Current registration is $15.

About the Author

Shelia has worked at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for more than 30 years. Previously, she worked at The Lexington Herald-Leader and The Louisville Defender. Her beat is a bit of a mixed bag that includes religion and spirituality, culture and trends, race and aging. She earned degrees from Spelman College and Northwestern University.

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