A tough road to recovery for Justin Orth. He’s battling a pain killer addiction, while grieving the loss of his best friend Aaron. He died just 10 months ago from an overdose.
“Me and him were trying to do it together, he lost the battle, and I’m still fighting it,” Orth said.
Aaron’s mom, Robin Ebling is now standing by Orth side. She supports and helps him and others who are fighting the drugs.
"The dealers on the streets make it harder for them. They get arrested, get out on bail, and are doing it again. That has to stop," Ebling said.
The Rapid Epidemic of drug overdoses in Erie County has caught the attention of local colleges.
Today Buffalo State College had an Addiction Walk on campus. Loved ones and even users like Orth were among the crowd at the walk. They say much more needs to be done to help those who want help.
Today pharmacy students from University at Buffalo were helping the D.E.A. and Erie County at a drug take back drop off location at Buffalo State.
“Erie County is all over this problem. We are working hard to get rid of it,” Frank Scarpinato, Erie County Environmental Education Specialist said.
However, many like Orth said more needs to be done across the board to get this problem under control.
As for Orth he said he is balancing work, therapy and taking it one day at a time.
"I make it work. Because I want a future. You know, I want to have a family. I want to have a good life. You know, I’m not going to let this win,” Orth said.
