195 overdose deaths so far this year: Mother who lost son shares her story at awareness event

MILWAUKEE -- One mother hopes telling her story will prevent overdose deaths. Her son died as a result of an overdose three years ago. Patti Lomas was the keynote speaker at an awareness event hosted Thursday, November 12th by Milwaukee County.

"Intervene and get help before heroin destroys your family," Lomas said.

Lomas spoke to a room filled with empty chairs. That was by design, as each chair represented a person who died from an overdose last year in Milwaukee County.

Patti Lomas speaks to empty chairs representing those who have died from overdose

C.J. Lomas

C.J. Lomas died of a heroin overdose in March of 2012. He was just 26 years old.

"We knew we wanted to do something. C.J. could help everybody, but he couldn`t help himself," Patti Lomas said.

Lomas says, strange as it may sound, one of her biggest regrets is bailing her son out of jail.

"We did that on numerous occasions -- not even bailing him out of jail, but bailing him out of tickets and fines," Lomas said.

Lomas says that sent the wrong message.

Officials at Thursday's event say a single case involving addiction affects a lot of people.

"The cost to society, let alone the 250 chairs behind us, the individual deaths -- what has been the cost of Mrs. Lomas and her husband, not only emotionally, but financially?" Michael Murphy, Milwaukee Common Council president said.

The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed 251 overdose deaths last year.

Through late October, there have been 195 confirmed deaths this year.

220 of last year's deaths were related to heroin or another opiate-based drug.

Overdose deaths

"It saddens me. I wish we would see these numbers decrease. We`re doing our part with education to help with prevention," Sara Schreiber, forensic director said.

Patti Lomas

Lomas says if you suspect a loved one is struggling with addiction -- get involved. She says a strict parent is a caring parent.

"Educate themselves. Hold their children accountable. Love your children. Hug them today," Lomas said.

The Lomas family hosts support group meetings for friends and family every two weeks.

CLICK HERE to learn more.

Meanwhile, there is an informational meeting regarding addiction scheduled for Monday night, November 16th at the Italian Community Center.