State Representative Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna) is hosting an opioid and mental health town hall meeting featuring House Health Committee Chairman Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) on Oct. 29 from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The panelists will be discussing the opioid and mental health crisis in the local community and how best to curb this dangerous epidemic.

"I have heard far too many stories of people and families, specifically grandparents who are raising their kids, suffering from the opioid and mental health crisis that is plaguing our communities across Tennessee," said Representative Sparks. "This town hall will be a great way for folks to learn more about the dangerous epidemic and provide individuals with the resources they need to assist someone who may be suffering. Please join us on Oct. 29th so we can continue to fight back against the opioid crisis and help those suffering from mental health issues."

"According to statistics, Tennessee is among the hardest-hit states when it comes to the opioid epidemic which has killed over 5,000 people in the state," said Chairman Bryan Terry, MD. "While the federal government and the Tennessee General Assembly is working to curb this epidemic, more must be done to help protect our communities. This town hall will be a great resource for members of the community to learn more about the opioid and mental health crisis so they can spot someone who is suffering and provide much-needed support."

Panelists include elected officials from the Tennessee General Assembly and Rutherford County, along with members from behavioral health, mental health courts, and advocates for veterans will speak.

WHAT:

Rutherford County Opioid and Mental Health Town Hall

WHO:

• Honorable Barry Tidwell, Rutherford County Judge
• Dr. Bryan Terry, MD, Chair of House Health Committee
• Commissioner Steve Ervin, Director of Drug Court
• Laurissa Garlington. Mental Health Cooperative
• Commissioner Craig Harris, Rutherford County Commissioner
• Dr. Monty Burks, Director of Faith-Based Initiatives (TDMHSAS)
• Dr. Marquinta Harvey, The Fearless Campaign
• Egon Grissom, Deputy Chief of Rutherford County

WHEN:

October 29, 2019 from 6:30pm to 8pm CST

WHERE:

Parkway Baptist Church (1715 Lee Victory Pkwy, Smyrna)

For more details, please call Rep. Sparks at 615-741-6829 or email his office at: rep.mike.sparks@capitol.tn.gov.