Many throughout Lawrence County have been touched in one way or another when it relates to an addiction. The addiction can range from something personal, or it could be a friend or loved one.

Addiction to drugs has become rampant throughout the county and region over the past several years. Unfortunately, in many cases those who are closest to the addict are the ones left picking up the pieces.

Over the next three weeks, candlelight vigils will be held for those who are struggling to deal with the issues or simply need someone to talk to who is going through the same problem.

The vigils are not only a place to remember friends or loved ones, but a valuable resource to meet and gather with other residents who are facing similar challenges.

Through 2013, Scioto and Lawrence counties ranked in the upper half of the state when it relates to deaths resulting from overdoses according to the Ohio Department of Health with 32.5 and 19.2 deaths per 100,000 respectively.

This is definitely a troubling statistic that can lead to tragic outcomes, and events like vigils and awareness provide a good step in the right direction.

Ultimately, it will take us all working together as a community to have a chance to start eradicating our county of this epidemic.