Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Hosts Butterfly Release Honoring Max's Law & Lives Impacted by the Opioid Crisis

Bergen New Bridge Medical Center hosted a butterfly release to remember and honor lives impacted by the opioid epidemic and to celebrate the power of recovery. The event raised awareness of Max’s Law which requires New Jersey schools to teach students about the dangers of fentanyl and xylazine. The law is named for Westwood resident Max Lenowitz, who lost his life to a fentanyl-laced pill.

“As New Jersey’s largest safety net hospital, we understand our responsibility extends far beyond the walls of our medical center. We are committed to expanding access to prevention, treatment, recovery services, and behavioral healthcare because every person deserves the opportunity to heal and every family deserves hope,” said Deborah Visconi, President & CEO, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. “We care for individuals struggling with substance use disorder, we celebrate those who achieve recovery, and we stand beside families whose lives have been forever changed by addiction.”

"Every life lost to the opioid epidemic is a heartbreaking reminder of why this work matters. Today, as we honor Max Lenowitz and all those whose lives have been impacted by addiction, we also renew our commitment to prevention, education, treatment, and recovery,” said Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III. “Bergen County is proud to stand alongside Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, advocates, and families in this fight. Through initiatives like Max's Law and the lifesaving services offered every day at our county hospital, we are working to ensure more people find hope, healing, and a path forward."

“I am so honored you showed up today – it’s my son’s birthday and he should be here to celebrate with us. We don’t want any other family to know our anguish.,” said Patrice Lenowitz, mother of Max Lenowitz. “[With Max’s Law] we want to share with the state, educators, families, and students the research and education that will save their lives.”