March 12, 2020 marks the day our son Brice died from an accidental overdose due to fentanyl poisoning. Fentanyl poisoning is a crisis that is befalling our communities and harming our loved ones.
Brice’s death was not a result of a “bad choice.” He struggled with a disease known as Substance Use Disorder. Yes, it is a disease like any other and deserves the attention our society bestows on other conditions. It requires research, early detection, treatment plans and follow up. Most importantly, stigma needs to be converted to empathy so we can erase the shame our loved ones experience.
A few words about Brice, he was a 23-year-old handsome boy with a full future ahead of him. He had an insatiable curiosity for truth and knowledge. He was intellectually gifted as everyone knew and an empathetic and loyal friend, son and brother. Brice was an artist, poet, martial artist, camp lover and a modern-day philosopher. He loved our mother earth and especially enjoyed hiking the Berkshire mountains.
During his recovery, he vowed to help save 100 men and women in overcoming Substance Use Disorder. Since he is no longer present to fulfill this mission, we will fulfill it in his name with every ounce of devotion left in our forever-broken hearts. We miss Brice deeply, and the world missed out on his future contributions to society.
Please donate to the Brice Makris Endowment Fund through the Hanley Foundation to help support prevention programs, education, advocacy and scholarships.
We love you Brice.
John, Michelle and Alec Makris
Hanley Foundation Board Member and Patrons
