As part of the Northeast Ohio Opioid Education Series, WellLink Health Alliance and Thrive for Change invite community members, families, and healthcare partners to a vital conversation addressing the rising impact of stimulants on our community’s health. 

This is a hybrid event, offering two ways to participate: 

In-Person: Join us at our community viewing location at Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center (8611 Hough Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106)  or a shared experience and direct connection with peers. 

Virtually: Log in via Microsoft Teams from the comfort of your home or office. 

The Urgency

According to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, cocaine is now the leading cause of drug overdose deaths, after almost a 40% decrease in fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the past two years. While much attention is placed on opioids, the intersection of stimulant use (such as cocaine and methamphetamine) and cardiovascular disease pose a significant, often overlooked risk. This session aims to bridge the gap between medical data and community action, providing attendees with life-saving knowledge and harm-reduction strategies. 

What You Will Learn 

The Local Landscape: An overview of current trends regarding overdose deaths and health incidents related to stimulants in Cuyahoga County. 

Medical Impact: A deep dive into the physiology of heart disease and how stimulant use specifically affects the cardiovascular system. 

Risk Reduction: Practical, evidence-based recommendations for reducing health risks associated with stimulant use. 

Community Resources: How to access local support, treatment options, and harm reduction tools. 

Featured Speakers 

Manreet Bhullar, MPH Forensic Epidemiologist, Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office Manreet will present critical data on local overdose deaths related to stimulants. 

Robert Bales, MD Family Medicine Physician, Cleveland Clinic Center for Behavioral Health Dr. Bales will explain the biological effects of stimulants on the heart and offer medical guidance on risk reduction. 

Bethany Roebuck Co-Founder & Executive Director, Thrive for Change Bethany will lead the discussion on ground-level observations, the "why" behind this event, and connect attendees to immediate local resources. 

Who Should Attend? This event is open to everyone, including individuals with lived experience, family members, public health professionals, and community advocates. 

Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Overdose Data to Action program.