An ongoing controversial battle between those who believe that drug addiction is a medical disease or those who think it is simply human weakness runs rapid throughout our cities’ streets. One man, however, is acting on his belief by medicating addicts in hopes to win the battle against drug addiction.
Greg Scott, Research Director of the Chicago Recovery Alliance, sees the 50,000 plus addicts in his city as victims in dire need of medical assistance and treatment. Scott’s typical day begins on the wrong side of Chicago’s railroad tracks. As he heads out on his mission throughout the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city, this medic seeks to grant aid to homeless addicts, especially those on heroin.
Opiates, such as heroin, is the leading narcotic that takes lives, around 100,000 people per year worldwide. People either die from becoming infected by using dirty needles or they simply overdose on the addictive substance.
As Scott travels throughout the city, his main concern is not to get the users into actual addiction rehabilitation or treatment, but instead, to teach them safer injection practices by passing out thousands of new needles. Additionally, when a user is reported to have overdosed, Scott quickly rushes to person and injects them with an anecdote that rapidly reverses the hold of heroin on their brain.
To some, Greg Scott is seen as an enemy of the state; someone who is helping out those who aren't deserving of such kindness. On the other hand, he could be viewed as a modern day Mother Teresa; someone who is always given second chances to the fallen. Whether you agree with Greg Scott’s practices or not, you cannot help but appreciate this man’s love for all mankind. Have YOU helped save the world today?
For more information, visit: nationalgeographic.com
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