KNOXVILLE, Tenn — Three hundred thirty-four butterflies took flight Friday at Lakeshore Park, one for every life lost to overdose in Knox County in 2024.

The butterfly release was part of Metro Drug Coalition’s annual International Overdose Awareness Day event, which brought people together to remember loved ones, share stories of recovery, and connect with local resources.

“You don’t have to suffer in silence. There are people that care,” Brandon Styles, the Regional Overdose Prevention Specialist with Metro Drug Coalition said. After 17 years in addiction, Styles now spends his days helping others begin their own recovery journeys.

“It means a lot to be able to bring education and awareness to let people know that if you are stuck in that place you don't have to stay there,” he said.

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