Cam’s Story
Cameron was a lively 19 year old all-American kid.
He loved his family, his friends, his dog, Bailey and he loved fashion. He had more shoes in his closet than most adults. You never knew what that kid was going to be wearing but you could always count on whatever it was, it would bring a smile to your face.
Cam was an incredibly talented athlete. Participating in football, soccer and track while in high school.
He had a strong desire to be the best at anything he attempted which was proven by medaling in individual hurdle events as well as the 4 X 400 relay at the State Championship meet his junior year.
Cam was also honored to qualify and participate in the Junior Olympics in the summer of 2017 at Eastern Michigan University.
If you knew Cam, you knew he had a rebellious spirit, pushing the envelope in multiple areas just to get a rise out of others.
He had a quirky side to him as well which brought countless hours of laughter to those around him. He loved to make people laugh.
Behind the façade of a smiling, handsome, charismatic, funny kid was a young man who also struggled with real-world problems. Cam had severe anxiety which is not unlike the majority of adolescents these days.
Instead of coping with his mental health issues in a positive, healthy way, Cameron turned to substances to mask his feelings. Again, as-is the trend among many adolescents.
He had decided to get help for his substance abuse and was on the path living a sober life.
After not responding to texts messages from his mom, she knew something wasn’t right and called his dad to meet her at his apartment.
When Cam didn’t answer his door, they called the police who entered his apartment and found him dead in his bed.
What Happened?
Cam made an incredibly poor choice to purchase a pill off of social media. An autopsy report would prove that ONE PILL contained a lethal dose of fentanyl. Cameron didn’t get a chance to learn from his mistake. He died from it.
Cam had no idea that the ONE pill he took contained anything in it that would end his life.
He went to sleep and never woke up, more than likely dying within 15 minutes of taking the pill. His dog, Bailey, was with him and she must have been so worried.
From that day forward, Cam’s mom, Becky, vowed to get the word out to students, parents, and communities about the dangers of fentanyl. Having a purpose to focus on in a way that would save lives has been honoring to Cam and gives his family peace in knowing Cam didn’t die in vain.
Why the bandana?
Cameron often had longer, loose curls on the top of his head which would get in his way so he was rarely seen without a bandana or some type of headband to keep it out of his eyes, even on the most formal occasions (including his dad’s wedding).
Bringing the bandana to the A Change for Cam logo is a constant reminder of our precious Cameron and how we are fighting in his honor. We are asking others to join us in the fight and make A Change for Cam.
Find out about upcoming events, set up an awareness discussion, or find out how you can support A Change For Cam in various other ways.