​The FNHA is committed to upholding, listening to, and respecting the views expressed by First Nations people in BC as they share their perspectives about the toxic drug crisis.

International Drug Users Remembrance Day, held annually on July 21, is an opportunity to remember people lost to the toxic drug crisis as well as to have conversations about drug use and hear stories about recovery from drug use.

Corrina Chase, the OCMO's Manager of Substance Use and Community-Based Initiatives, met with Wade Strobel of the Squamish (sḵwx̱wú7mesh) Nation to talk  about Wade's personal journey out of drug use and into health and wellness.

Wade has a powerful story of recovery. He quit using drugs 20 years ago and began sharing his story to give others hope. A former client of Unlocking the Gates (UTG), an organization that supports individuals transitioning from correctional facilities across BC, Wade now works with UTG as a peer outreach worker. Drawing from lived experience, he helps connect people to peer-led supports including health services, transportation, housing, and low-barrier community resources. He helps at the shelter when it is short-staffed, hands out food and clothing, and is very present for his clients' journeys. (Learn more about UTG's role in supporting reintegration and recovery at this link.)

Wade shared that he grew up around alcohol and drugs, and started struggling early in life. After using from the ages of 15 to 35, while considering himself a “functioning drug user," he finally got serious about healing. Reconnecting with his spirituality helped him find his purpose, which he believes is giving back and helping others who are struggling with drug use. He believes that because he knows the suffering, he can understand and help others find their way—just like others helped him.

Corrina:  Thank you for sharing your story with us. What do you want people to know about those who use drugs?

Wade: It's important for everyone to understand that drug users are people too. Under the eyes of the heavens, we are all human beings. No one dreams of becoming a drug addict as a child. Addiction, homelessness, and hunger are real issues that need compassion and support.

Corrina: Has First Nations culture, tradition, spirituality or language played a role in your recovery or healing journey?

Wade: My spirituality gives me strength and hope. My blood carries the strength of my ancestors. I feel deeply connected to water and belong to the Flicker Clan. One day, a flicker bird landed on me when I was at my lowest, and it brought a message of freedom. That moment reminded me I was not alone, and that healing was possible. My healing journey included a time for recovery, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Corrina: What message would you share with other First Nations people who may be struggling in silence?

Wade: Don't be afraid to ask for help—it's hard, but it can change your life. Healing requires deep honesty [with yourself and others] and a strong desire to grow. Every effort you make is a big step forward. Without working on yourself, change won't happen. There will be pain, but it will be well worth it.

Corrina: How can communities better support people who use drugs without judgment or stigma?

Wade:  Communities can offer real help—they can help people get treatment, detox, and support services, which are especially difficult to access in rural areas. We need more local, culturally safe, and accessible services, and compassion and understanding must guide our actions. Also, we need to talk to youth—teach them openly about drugs and let them know they can come to us. Don't shelter them—today's drugs are toxic and deadly. Fentanyl and other contaminants are killing people every day. Educating youth and keeping communication open can save lives.

Corrina: What gives you hope today, and what dreams do you have for the future of your community?

Wade: Helping others fills my heart. Sharing my journey is a gift I'm grateful to pass on. I dream of a community where healing, support, and love are always present.

Corrina: Thank you, Wade, for sharing your story. The way you lead with an open heart and mind to help others and give them hope is so inspiring.

To learn more about the FNHA's response to the toxic drug crisis, please visit our harm-reduction webpage.

Recognizing that substance use varies for each individual, the FNHA emphasizes the need for a continuum of programs and services to meet people where they are at on their unique wellness journeys. This includes supporting people who use drugs, because we believe that all paths lead to wellness.

You can also read this article about a First Nations peer worker doing harm-reduction work.

If you are grieving the loss of a loved one due to the toxic drug crisis, you may find supports here:

• Tsow-Tun Le Lum Society
  For counselling, cultural support, or outreach services, please call the toll-free line at 1-888-403-3123 or the main office at (250) 390-3123.
• Lumara Society
  Provides education, support and counselling services to children, youth, individuals, and families impacted by life-threatening illness, grief, and loss.
• KUU-US Crisis Line
  Toll Free: 1-800-KUU-US17 or 1-800-588-8717

You can also share a memory of your loved one at honouringourlovedones.fnha.ca. You can share a story, a video, photo, artwork or an audio recording.