Kamloops mom Jennifer Cottell says decriminalizing possession could save her daughter Sam's life (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Chad Klassen

OPIOID CRISIS

Kamloops mom hopeful after pitch to decriminalize possession of personal drugs

Apr 25, 2019 | 5:03 PM

KAMLOOPS — Every day, Jennifer Cottell worries about her daughter Sam who uses fentanyl. It’s been a rocky 14-year journey helping her through her addiction.

“It’s very scary to think that they feel the way they do and that they won’t reach out, even as her mother,” noted Cottell. “The shame that she carries is so heavy that even a mother’s love is not enough.”

Sam lives in supportive housing in Kamloops but can be found on the streets much of her day. Her mother says she hasn’t seen her two children in two years due to the shame.

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The call by provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry to decriminalize the possession of personal drugs makes Cottell hopeful for the future.

“Right now, there’s a lot of shame and stigma that surrounds drugs,” she said. “What we’re asking for, really, is this around personal illicit drugs, personal use. Often people will not ask for help and support due to the shame and stigma. Therefore, often our children are dying alone.”

Cottell believes the money saved on the criminal justice system could be spent helping people with their addictions.

Kamloops addictions physician Dr. Hanke De Kock says people are more hesitant to see him or others, not only due to the shame but also the fear of getting caught with drugs. He says decriminalizing possession would encourage more people to come forward.

“I do think this is an ideal opportunity to connect people with addiction services,” he said. “I think sometimes stuff gets lost in the criminal justice system, and I think this is a great opportunity to connect people with the services they need.”

Cottell believes decriminalization could ultimately save her daughter’s life.

“Absolutely,” she said. “I know of many personal friends and Moms Stop The Harm, so so many have lost their children and family members dying alone in their room. The shame and stigma is absolutely everything that surrounds them. It’s almost the barrier for most of the concerns of people dying.”