March against heroin highlights epidemic struggle

November 14, 2015 at 5:24p.m.

NILES

Those attending marches against heroin like Saturday’s event in Niles have stories to tell and all of them are tragic.

They serve as graphic reminders of the severity of the heroin epidemic in the Mahoning Valley, which is why more of these rallies are being held.

“They found my daughter’s body dumped on the side of a road in Warren,” said Amy Jo Giovannone of Mecca speaking of the heroin overdose death of her 23-year old daughter Sierra in June 2014. “She was a good person and at no time was I ever ashamed of my daughter.”

A group of 15 family members and friends showed up to remember Tom Myers of Alliance. All wore distinctive purple and white T-shirts emblazoned with “Heroin broke my heart” on the front, Myers name on the back and the slogan “It’s time to take a stand.” Myers was 39.

“He was addicted for six months and I didn’t know,” said Jamie Fletcher of Alliance, Myers sister. Several family members wore a button picturing Myers looking healthy and happy.

“I lost my older brother to heroin last March,” said Renee Zumerling of Cortland. “I’ve come here because we need to create awareness and help people.”

An estimated 275 gathered near the city’s bike path to tell their stories, share their mutual grief and march through downtown escorted by police. They shouted “not one more” and “I hate heroin” as they walked along North Main Street.