Griffith, IN — “Sounds of Sarah,” along with the help of Griffith High School administrators, hosted a “Save A Life Day” presentation at Griffith High School on Aug. 29, 2025 to raise awareness about drug overdose, and how to recognize the signs. 

“Save A Life Day” is an initiative created to give individuals struggling with addiction another chance by promoting healing, education, and access to help. The non-profit organization behind the event works to support both those facing substance use disorders and families who have lost loved ones to drug overdoses. Many overdoses occur because warning signs go unrecognized, making education and awareness a critical part of prevention efforts.

The organization was founded in August 2022 by Patty Stovall following the death of her daughter, Sarah, who died from fentanyl poisoning in October 2021. “Save A Life Day” has since grown into a national movement focused on teaching people how to recognize overdose symptoms and respond quickly. Because life-saving opioid reversal medications such as naloxone are not always easily accessible, the organization provides naloxone for free to individuals who may need it.

When the phrase “saving a life” is used, many people first think of first responders such as firefighters who save people from burning buildings or nurses who save people during surgery, but Patty Stovall found another way this phrase can be used. Saving a life by giving someone another chance at life. 

“Emotionally, it carries deep meaning because it represents the impact of prevention, education, and quick response. It reminds me that one action can change the path of a life and a family,” said Stovall.

After losing her daughter, Stovall wanted to help others who were going through a similar situation as hers. So, she made “Sounds of Sarah.” It’s an organization that helps inform others about how they can get help or prevent someone from overdosing. “Sounds of Sarah” has helped Stovall move forward with the loss of her daughter by helping others. 

“Through this work, Sarah’s life continues to matter by helping others,” said Stovall. 

The presentation about drug awareness and prevention had focused on the dangers of fentanyl and other addictive drugs. An administrator from Griffith High School, Timberly Kinnie, expressed her feelings as a mother about drug overdose. 

“As a parent myself. Hearing from Sarah’s mom made it very emotional,” said Kinnie. 

The outlook for drug prevention in the future should be improving because of the awareness being shared. With Sarah’s story. Stovall wants others to understand the dangers of illicit drugs and what can happen without being educated about the consequences. If more people are informed and understand the risks, then the less likely they are to do drugs or overdose. 

“It’s about education, not fear. It’s about helping people understand the risks of illicit drugs, recognize the signs of an overdose or mental health crisis, and know how to respond quickly and safely using available resources and necessary tools,” said Stovall.