Parenting in the digital age is hard for more reasons than just online predators. Parents and community members came together Tuesday for the Annual Tackling Tough Topics Conference, discussing all the dangers.
While cyber smarts and knowing how to spot child abuse were part of the discussion, a larger part was the illegal and legal drugs that are claiming young lives. Laura Stacks is the CEO of Johnny’s Ambassadors, a non-profit she and her husband started after their son’s five-year battle with marijuana and THC.
click to download audioShe says science has proven THC usage is a detriment to youth, citing a 2021 study that took imaging of 799 14-year-olds’ brains.
click to download audioMeanwhile, Bowling Critical Care Paramedic/EMS Field Supervisor, Micheal LaSala says illicit fentanyl has made its way into nearly all street drugs, including pills, dabs, and marijuana.
click to download audioHe and his cohorts are leading presentations mostly for students, even as young as fifth grade.
click to download audioWhile overdose deaths are down in Kentucky for 2022 compared to 2021, they still remain above the prepandemic rate according to the latest overdose fatality report from the state. Of the 2,135 overdose deaths, 90 percent of them were attributed to opioids, specifically 1,548 included fentanyl. 126 children ages 0-24 died of an overdose in 2022. Resources exist in Christian County to help those living with addiction.
Pennyrile Regional Network Coordinator, Sabrina Davis says PACS and the Community Collaboration for Children host the event annually.
click to download audioShe adds the focus on increased drug availability is a cause for all parents to be vigilant.
click to download audioThe takeaway of the day is to be more involved, know what your kids are doing, be aware of the risks, and have open honest conversations.
