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In a world where opioid overdoses continue to devastate communities, one VCU professor is taking a creative and hands-on approach to combat the crisis. John Freyer, a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, is using a bright blue bicycle to save lives and spread awareness about the life-saving drug naloxone. Known as the "Free Naloxone" bike, this initiative is helping Richmond residents take immediate action in the event of an overdose.
According to Axios Richmond, Freyer's journey into harm-reduction work began in 2016, when he launched the "Free Hot Coffee" bike. The idea was simple yet effective: ride around campus and offer free coffee to students while engaging them in conversations about recovery and addiction. The program, designed to provide one-on-one interactions in the short time it takes to brew a fresh cup of local coffee, laid the foundation for a broader effort to save lives.
Just one year later, Freyer took the next step by introducing naloxone training sessions on campus. Naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, became a key focus. It wasn’t just about educating people—it was about empowering them to take action when an overdose happens. By 2019, the "Free Naloxone" bike was born, thanks to a generous donation from someone personally affected by addiction.
The “Free Naloxone” bike is more than just a means of transportation. Its wooden crate, mounted at the front, carries doses of naloxone, while a wooden table at the back serves as a platform for training. During training sessions, Freyer uses an inflatable CPR dummy, Manny Fresh, to teach students how to recognize signs of an overdose and administer naloxone effectively. The bike has become a visible symbol of hope on the VCU campus, a beacon of preparedness and care for anyone who might need help.
“What we found,” Freyer told Axios, “is that students want to be ready. They want to help when someone overdoses, whether it's in a dorm or somewhere on campus. They want to be able to step in and make a difference.”
The concept of providing naloxone training is resonating deeply with students, many of whom are aware of the opioid epidemic’s impact on their communities. Freyer’s initiative ensures that these students are equipped to save lives, should the need arise.
Since the launch of the naloxone bike in February 2020, Freyer’s program has trained over 4,700 people and distributed 3,100 boxes of naloxone. This includes not just students but also Richmond’s bar and restaurant staff and, more recently, members of the state legislature. While naloxone is becoming more widely available, the "Free Naloxone" bike focuses on distributing it to individuals who are at higher risk—such as those who use drugs, their families, and people working in related fields.
Freyer’s vision is clear: equip individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to intervene in a life-or-death situation, and in doing so, create a more supportive, compassionate community. The "Free Naloxone" bike is a powerful example of how simple acts of kindness and education can make an enormous difference in the fight against the opioid epidemic.
As naloxone becomes more accessible, it’s clear that initiatives like Freyer’s are vital. They don’t just provide a means to reverse overdoses—they offer hope for a future where addiction recovery and harm reduction are prioritized, and lives are saved every day.
If you or your loved one are struggling with substance abuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery before it is too late. Our caring and compassionate staff will help you overcome your addiction for good, and teach you how to live a sober and successful life. We have helped over 40,000 individuals transform their lives, and we can help you too. Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community and to begin your journey to the sober future of your dreams.