After son’s death, family calls for teen drug addiction support

A family in West Lincoln family is calling for more support for teens battling drug addictions, following the death of their son, David Robinson, nearly two weeks ago.

Hannah Robinson, David’s mother says 17-year-old David was talented, driven, and a leader. However, his life was cut short after battling drug addiction. As his family processes the tragedy, they see the loss as a moment of reflection about drugs and their deadly effects.

Hannah says the incident happened on June 24. She says David was at a friend’s house in their neighbourhood.

“When his friends went to sleep, I guess he decided to use fentanyl and didn’t wake up, and there was nobody near him to intervene soon enough,” Hannah said.

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Niagara police confirm they are investigating after first responders attended to an unresponsive teen that night. Despite life saving measures, David died in hospital.

While Hannah awaits a toxicology report, she wants to raise awareness about opioids amongst young people along with how family and community can support them.

According to a recent drug research report 752 people aged 15 to 24 years old died from opioid overdose and 5,400 emergency room visits since 2014.

Hannah and her husband Stuart and their six children are remembering David as a leader at home and on the football field, where he played quarterback.

David’s old football team, the Niagara Generals are paying tribute to him on Wednesday evening. The Generals will kick off their game at Kiwanis Field in St. Catharines where they’ll be sporting decals on their helmets with the David’s number nine.

Hannah’s friend, Melissa Gurzi is looking to bring attention to this by launching a GoFundMe page to help support the family. “I don’t want David’s death to be in vain. This isn’t an isolated incident, this is something that is facing our community.”

Hannah said, “I think as a community we’re going to band together to make sure he’s not forgotten and that we hopefully can make some changes that will protect our kids.”

If you or someone you know is seeking help regarding addiction visit ConnexOntario.

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