Recovery Resident Saving People from Overdose

Evaristo, a resident of Union Gospel Mission’s LifeChange recovery community, has helped save four people from overdose in the last year.

Evaristo has been part of LifeChange for a little over 17 months. Before coming to the Mission, he had been living in his car struggling with an addiction that was slowly taking over more and more of his life.

A few weeks back, Barry, a UGM volunteer, was alerted about a man overdosing on the street outside the Mission. He knew Evaristo had helped to resuscitate people in the past so asked him for help. He said Evaristo jumped into action without hesitation, grabbing some Narcan and going to the man’s aid. He was blue and unresponsive. Evaristo immediately administered a dose of Narcan and began chest compressions.

After a few minutes the man’s color started to return. He administered another dose of Narcan and continued compressions. A friend of the man was nearby and helped with the chest compressions. After about 10 minutes the man began to rouse, and they could hear the ambulance coming. Another bystander had called 911.

This is the fourth time Evaristo has helped save someone from an overdose using Narcan. Barry said he has seen how compassionate Evaristo is and that he is willing to help however needed.

“God has given me the chance to help other people, because they have the same problem I did. People helped me so I want to help others,” Evaristo told us.

Evaristo said it was hard at first to stay sober, there are so many drugs near Mission. “Now it’s easier, the temptation is not as strong. I have more than year a of soberiety and ask God for help.” He expressed that he is aware that he could stumble so needs to stay close to community and people that can support him. Like the Mission and his church.

When asked if he has any fear when he has helped revive someone, he shared that he is afraid for the person’s life but is not fearful about using his skills. He is thankful that he has been given the opportunity to help others. He wants others to have the same opportunity he has had to get sober.