From Loss to Legislation

Mother Turned Advocate: Fighting for Justice Against the Opioid Epidemic in Maryland

As a grieving parent and advocate for justice, Kelly Bostic channels her profound loss into a powerful call for action against the opioid epidemic plaguing communities across Maryland. Her son, Tyler, was a vibrant 29-year-old Electronic Manufacturing Specialist with a promising future at Northrop Grumman. Despite his potential, Tyler's life was tragically cut short due to addiction, stemming from his battle with depression and anxiety. 

Tyler's story is emblematic of the devastating impact of opioid addiction on families across our state. Bostic highlights the staggering statistics: Between September 2022 and September 2023, there were approximately 2,560 overdose deaths in Maryland. But behind each statistic lies a human tragedy, a life lost prematurely to a crisis that demands urgent attention.

Driven by her son's memory and deep sense of injustice, Bostic advocates for legislation to hold drug dealers accountable for the lethal substances they peddle. She calls for the implementation of drug-induced homicide laws, which would ensure that those responsible for supplying deadly drugs are held criminally liable for their actions. Furthermore, Bostic urges state authorities to conduct thorough criminal investigations into all cases involving overdoses and toxic drug poisonings. By seeking justice for victims like Tyler, she hopes to prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak. 

Join us on February 29th at That's Amore at noon to hear Kelly Bostic's deeply personal story that both honors her son Tyler's memory and inspires advocacy for legislation to help prevent further tragedies across Maryland.