It's been declared a national crisis -- opioid addiction.
A few dozen community members gathered tonight at Himmel Park to raise awareness about opioid abuse and remember loved ones lost to addiction.
There were memorial tables in the park for people to place photos of the loved ones they have lost to overdose, as well as community speakers and a 30-minute open sharing time for people to speak about overdose and overcoming addiction.
Because of personal experiences, the organizers says she wanted to create a safe place for people to share their recovery stories free of judgment.
August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day. State officials report roughly 273 people have died this year in Arizona from suspected opioid overdoses.
