The Fentanyl Crisis in North Carolina and Why We Must Act

North Carolina is in the midst of a devastating opioid crisis, with fentanyl at the center of this tragic wave. Once used strictly for severe pain management in trauma and cancer patients, fentanyl has found its way into illegal markets, becoming a silent killer throughout our communities. The numbers paint a stark and heartbreaking reality. 

From 2000 to 2023, more than 41,500 North Carolinians lost their lives to drug overdoses. In 2023 alone, an average of 12 people died every single day from overdoses in our state. Although the number decreased to about 8 people per day in 2024 (a sign of some progress) this crisis remains deeply prevalent and demands continued urgent action. 

The overdose death rate in North Carolina is now estimated at 29.7 per 100,000 residents. Emergency departments are overwhelmed as well, with an estimated 10,512 overdose-related visits anticipated in 2025. 

Fentanyl has emerged as the deadliest contributor to this crisis. As of 2021, fentanyl arrests have skyrocketed to over 3,100, up from just eight in 2001. This synthetic opioid is up to 100 times more potent than morphine, and its cheap production makes it a popular additive to counterfeit pills. In North Carolina alone, authorities seized 77,000 fake pills in 2021, with eight out of ten containing fentanyl.

A recent study found that over half of individuals who died thought they were taking prescription medications like Xanax or oxycodone, but instead had ingested pure fentanyl. Counterfeit pills are widely sold online and on social media, making them frighteningly easy for teenagers and young adults to access.

Wilson’s Story

For many families, these statistics become personal in an instant. That was the case for the Moore family when they lost Wilson, a bright, kind young man with endless potential. His mother, Betsy, had always been proactive, having open and honest conversations with Wilson about drinking and driving and about the dangers of drugs. 

But despite these conversations, a single counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl took Wilson's life. His story is tragically not unique, but his memory has inspired a movement. 

The Mission of Wilson’s Wave

After losing Wilson, his family chose to transform their pain into action. Wilson’s Wave was born to raise awareness, provide education, and empower families and communities to have hard but necessary conversations about fentanyl and substance use. 

Through school talks, community events, educational resources, and public advocacy, Wilson’s Wave seeks to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. The organization also works to break the stigma around substance use, promote access to life-saving resources like naloxone, and advocate for stronger preventive measures in schools and communities. 

At Wilson’s Wave, we believe that every conversation is a ripple–and when enough ripples come together, they can create a powerful wave of change. 

How You Can Help

This crisis is not distant. It is in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our friend circles. You can be part of the solution: 

• Start the conversation with your children, friends, and community.

• Support Wilson’s Wave by donating, shopping their awareness merchandise, or volunteering.

• Educate yourself about the signs of fentanyl poisoning and how to use naloxone.

Together, we can turn the tide on fentanyl and honor the lives lost by preventing future tragedies. 

Check out Wilson’s Wave to learn more, donate, or get involved today. Let’s make waves together, for Wilson and for every life we can still save.