Photo: Crystal Meth and Fentanyl Awareness Walk Facebook Page photo
The 4th annual Crystal Meth and Fentanyl Awareness Walk focused on substance use and overdose prevention is set to begin Monday, June 8, starting at the Muskoday Band Hall.
The walk was inspired by Betty Prosper, who shared the idea following a dream about raising awareness. Co-organizer Erica Hennie says that vision quickly turned into action.
“It was her dream, and she came to me, and we started trying to fundraise and put everything together,” Erica Hennie said. “That’s how the walk started, and this is now our fourth year.”
The walk raises awareness about the impact of substance use, with a focus on crystal meth and fentanyl overdoses. Hennie says the goal is to reduce stigma and highlight that addiction affects people from all backgrounds.
“Crystal meth and fentanyl are some of the drugs of choice right now, and it affects everybody from all walks of life,” Hennie said. “We’re trying to bring awareness because a lot of people don’t see the people behind the addictions.”
The event begins at 8 a.m. with a pipe ceremony at Muskoday Band Hall. A community breakfast will follow at 9 a.m., with guest speakers scheduled for 10 a.m.
After the morning program, participants will begin a 355-kilometre walk to Regina. The walk will continue rain or shine.
Hennie says support has grown each year, with people joining from different communities and backgrounds, including those directly impacted by loss.
“We’ve had people come from different communities to walk with us,” Hennie explained. “Even if someone walks just a few steps, that shows support.”
Organizers say the walk is also about creating space for healing and connection, often stopping along the route to listen to personal stories.
“If somebody needs to talk, we’ll sit and listen,” Hennie said. “We don’t just keep walking — we take the time.”
The walk comes at a time when organizers say supports for those struggling with addiction are under pressure, and they are calling for more attention to mental health and trauma.
“We need to start looking at the trauma that’s causing people to turn to addictions,” Hennie said.
Community members are encouraged to join the walk at any point along the route. Participants should bring necessary supplies, including clothing and hygiene items. Women attending the opening ceremony are asked to wear a skirt or dress in keeping with cultural protocols.
Updates will be shared regularly on the group’s Facebook page, dedicated to crystal meth and fentanyl overdose awareness.
Hennie says the walk is about unity and remembering loved ones.
“You can walk for someone you love, someone who is struggling, or someone who has passed on,” Hennie said. “Every step matters.”
Donations can be made by email at walk2regina@outlook.com.
