An overdose awareness walk is scheduled to take place in Thunder Bay, Ontario, this Saturday. The event is dedicated to the memory of Joey Dacosta and aims to shed light on the city’s persistent drug crisis.

Honouring Joey Dacosta’s Life

The walk is hosted by the DEK Foundation and will commemorate Joey Dacosta, a 29-year-old Thunder Bay resident who tragically died from addiction in November 2025. His sister, Franki Dacosta, remembers him for his kindness, humour, and unwavering support of others, rather than his struggles.

Shifting the Focus to Remembrance

Celebrating Lives Lost

The event aims to move the conversation away from the tragedy of addiction and towards celebrating the lives of those lost. Organizers encourage community members to honour their memories with love, support, and shared joy.

The DEK Foundation’s Mission

The DEK Foundation was founded by Carolyn Karle in 2022, following the overdose death of her daughter, Dayna. The foundation is dedicated to raising awareness about addiction in Thunder Bay and establishing a post-treatment recovery home for women.

Addressing a Critical Need

Karle emphasizes the urgent need for more resources and accessible aftercare options. The Thunder Bay district currently experiences an opioid-related death rate over five times the provincial average. She notes the difficulties individuals face navigating the system and the limited availability of safe recovery spaces.

Karle stresses that recovery is a long-term process that requires ongoing support beyond initial treatment. The foundation recognizes the complexities of addiction and the importance of tailored resources, while also acknowledging the long wait times for detox, treatment, and aftercare.

Community Involvement and Support

The upcoming walk provides an opportunity for families affected by addiction to connect and educate the community about substance use and the importance of support. Karle expresses pride in the growing community involvement, including support from individuals without direct experience with addiction.

Participants are encouraged to wear purple, the colour symbolizing overdose awareness. Franki Dacosta hopes to share cherished memories of her brother, highlighting his vibrant personality and compassionate nature.

Joey Dacosta is survived by his sister, parents, grandmother, and two children, Jaxton and Joie, as well as a large extended family and network of friends. The DEK Foundation continues to work towards opening a recovery home, with plans for a smaller-scale initiative by the end of the year.