Who We Are
and What We Believe
Stigma toward medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) places an additional burden on people who are trying to stay alive and get well. PGH MOUD was formed because it’s time for a change.
The people behind PGH MOUD all have lived experience with addiction and recovery, some of us with MOUD. Since 2022, we have been working to fight MOUD stigma in four main areas: 1) creating safe spaces; 2) tackling myths; 3) promoting justice; and 4) coming out.
PGH MOUD has been envisioned and made real by the following people:
Kenneth Clowes
Dan Cohen
Eliza Fixler
Alyssa Forte
Kelley Kelley
Cambria King
Cory Meutz
Brian Nuckols
David Scott
Sarah Shotland
Sarah Shuba
Rachel Shuster
Jess Williams
Our Zine
Excerpts from our zine, which we hope you will download, read, and share.
Despite the effectiveness of MOUD, there are many myths and misconceptions about this treatment approach that can prevent people from seeking the help they need. You can help stop the spread of misinformation.
For a long time, there has been discrimination toward people who take medications for opioid addiction. For example, people have been blocked from these medications when they are in jail or prison. Truck drivers, doctors, and other workers have been forced to give up MOUD to keep their jobs. People giving birth in hospitals have been prevented from bonding with their babies. In many cases, this treatment is not just unfair, it is also illegal.
If you have personally experienced opioid addiction and have received MOUD as part of your treatment, it can be powerful to share your lived experience with others. This can help shed light on the realities of opioid addiction and the effectiveness of MOUD in treating it. Coming out doesn’t have to be a big public announcement (although it can be). Sharing your story with a loved one can be extremely powerful.
Getting Involved
Get in touch any time! We welcome anyone who shares our dedication to this work. Email moud.pgh@gmail.com and we’ll get back to you.
We are thankful to the Life Unites Us campaign and the Staunton Farm Foundation for supporting our efforts.
