Our story
This fundraiser aims to raise funds for a scholarship in memory of Aryana Coelho, while also raising awareness about the growing opioid crisis in our communities.
Aryana was just 18 years old when she was tragically taken from her loved ones due to a fentanyl overdose. Despite facing numerous challenges in her life, Aryana always poured love and kindness into those around her. She specifically loved her two younger sisters and took pride in being the oldest sibling. Aryana had big dreams and a passion for culinary arts, often putting her own creative twist on the dishes she cooked. Unfortunately, addiction changed the course of her life, and it only took one moment to alter her path forever.
In her honor, we are establishing this scholarship to support a high school senior whose life has been impacted by addiction, whether through personal experience or family exposure. Our hope is that this award will not only honor the person Aryana was but also shine a light on the youth opioid crisis, which affects not only our family but countless others in our community.
The youth opioid crisis in the United States has become a growing public health emergency, with rising numbers of adolescents and young adults becoming victims of opioid addiction and overdose deaths. This crisis is fueled by the widespread availability of prescription painkillers, fentanyl, and other synthetic opioids, which have made their way into schools, communities, and homes. Many young people begin experimenting with opioids due to peer pressure, mental health struggles, or a lack of education about the dangers of these substances. As a result, opioid misuse has led to devastating consequences, including severe addiction, damaged futures, and tragically, an increasing number of fatal overdoses. Efforts to address the crisis include better education, improved access to treatment, and stricter regulations on prescription medications, but the epidemic remains a critical challenge to public health.
Our family is grateful to everyone who donates. No contribution is too small, and if you're unable to donate, please consider sharing this cause to help raise awareness. Together, we can work to prevent other families from experiencing this kind of heartbreaking loss.
