Dallas James Anderson

Dallas Anderson was so much more than someone we lost to addiction. He was a son, a brother, an uncle, a partner, a best friend, and a person whose presence could light up a room.

Dallas and I were partners and best friends for more than five years. We spent nearly every day together, building a life filled with memories that I will carry with me forever.

Dallas grew up in Lincoln City, Oregon, with his mom and sister. Growing up on the coast, he loved skateboarding and was a **HUGE Oregon Ducks fan**. Some of his favorite memories were going to games and cheering on the Ducks with his family.

He loved fast cars and had an appreciation for all kinds of music. He had a great sense of style and somehow always managed to look completely put together. He was charismatic, carefree, incredibly funny, and had a quick wit that could make just about anyone laugh.

But one of the most beautiful things about Dallas was his heart.

Dallas loved deeply. He absolutely adored his nephew, and spending time with him was one of Dallas's greatest joys. He also had an incredible love for animals, especially his beloved husky, Chianti, and his pug, Turkey Bird.

Dallas was one of the most selfless people I have ever known. His generosity knew no bounds. If someone needed help, Dallas would have gladly given them the shirt off his back. He had a way of looking toward the brighter side of life, even when life wasn't particularly bright.

That is the Dallas I want people to remember.

Not simply the circumstances surrounding his death.

Not simply addiction.

**Dallas.**

The funny, charismatic Oregon boy who loved his family, his animals, fast cars, music, skateboarding, the Ducks, and making people laugh.

The world has never felt quite the same without his bright light in it. He is deeply loved and deeply missed by so many.

I carry Dallas with me every day. His memory has become part of the work I do in recovery and substance abuse, helping other people find their light and reminding them that their lives are worth fighting for.

On International Overdose Awareness Day, I share Dallas's story because behind every overdose statistic is a human being.

Someone with a childhood.

Someone with favorite songs and inside jokes.

Someone's son. Someone's brother. Someone's best friend. Someone's entire world.

Dallas was mine.

And he will never be forgotten. 💜