The community is invited to a powerful and deeply personal event aimed at raising awareness about the fentanyl crisis and its devastating impact on teens and families.
“My Empty Chair: Teen Drug Use & Its Deadly Toll” will take place on Wednesday, July 9, at 7 p.m. at the historic Fargo Theatre (314 Broadway N.). This event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to obtain tickets through myemptychair.eventbrite.com. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the event will conclude at approximately 8:15 p.m.
Featured speaker Shani Reisnour, a seasoned paramedic and founder of Mya’s Mission, will share her story of unimaginable loss—the death of her 20-year-old daughter, Mya, to fentanyl poisoning. Drawing on both professional experience and personal heartbreak, Shani offers a unique and urgent message for parents, teens, educators and first responders. A meet-and-greet will follow her presentation.
“This crisis doesn’t discriminate,” Shani says. “I never thought it would happen to my family. I’m sharing Mya’s story, so maybe it won’t happen to yours.”
The event will explore:
• The dangers of teen drug use, especially fentanyl
• Signs parents and loved ones should never ignore
• The emotional and societal toll of addiction
• How to turn grief into advocacy and action
The event is hosted by Fargo Cass Public Health, in partnership with Mya’s Mission, a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring Mya’s legacy by raising awareness, reducing stigma and supporting access to mental health and addiction treatment for teens and young adults.