Did you know that, according to CDC, approximately 46 people die every day from overdoses involving prescription opioids? Or that between 1999 and 2016, more than 200,000 people have died from a prescription opioid overdose? With statistics like these, it is understandable that the current opioid crisis in the United States is all over the news. As the Generation Rx Chair for the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science’s (RFUMS) APhA–ASP Chapter, I resolved to find a way to address this issue.

The RFUMS campus is located in North Chicago, IL, a suburb of the Chicago metropolitan area. It sits in the heart of Lake County, nestled between a prosperous community and one with poverty. Lake County is the proud home to “A Way Out” program established by the Lake County Opioid Initiative as well as law enforcements agencies in the county. This program allows people suffering from addiction to seek help without the concern of cost or prosecution. This area is also home to an exceptional not-for-profit organization called Liv4Lali.

Every day, we can see the magic in the unexpected and the light in the darkness, but that depends on what perspective you choose. These words contain an essential part of the success of the University of Puerto Rico School of Pharmacy’s APhA–ASP PharmFlix Video submission because it was in adversity that we got stronger. With our hearts full of passion and a great sense of commitment, we decided to show the world that any goal is possible when you stand up to Begin Your Legacy.

As I have noted in friendly conversations, formal presentations, and in writing, when it comes to your “calling,” you already know what it is. Your calling is what your passion is. If you are like me, you might also be interested in what “calling” means to today’s pharmacy leaders.

For Lawrence Brown, PharmD, FAPhA, Associate Dean of Students and Professor at the Chapman University School of Pharmacy, calling means: “Something in your life that you enjoy doing so much, and that really is about benefiting others rather than benefiting you.” I think that is perfect and a true representation of my presidential theme “Embrace Your Calling.”