On Thursday, April 18, the Mesa County Public Health Department brought a strong message to Colorado Mesa University’s campus. With the individual film Ruined Wings, they emphasized the severity of opioid addiction.

The opioid education event ran from 6-9 p.m. in the ballroom and included dinner and a question and answer section. Ruined Wings followed the story of 17-year-old Callie Novak as she falls victim to drug abuse and goes into a downward spiral as a result.

In addition to the movie and Q&A panel, information tables lined the outer area of the ballroom, providing resources for addiction prevention and support. Participants had “Resource Fair Bingo” sheets in which they could visit every table in order to qualify for the prize drawing. Peer Assistance Services were available, for instance, with educational pamphlets.

Through both the panel and the resource tables, the Public Health Department and CMU’s own Student Diversity, Advocacy and Health Department educated students and community members alike on the importance of addiction awareness.