West Chicago rescuers save overdose victim

A 21-year-old West Chicago man is the latest to have his life saved by a heroin overdose intervention drug as DuPage County inches closer to its 100th save.

West Chicago police officers were called to a home on the 300 block of East Blair Street at 9:40 p.m. Jan. 14 for an unconscious man who may have overdosed.

Officers said the man was unconscious and not breathing. A family member told them heroin probably was involved.

Officers administered naloxone hydrochloride, or Narcan, to the man while they continued performing CPR. West Chicago Fire Protection District paramedics arrived and took over treatment of the patient, who regained consciousness and sat up within minutes.

He was taken to the hospital for evaluation and additional treatment. He is expected to fully recover.

"The use of heroin is a reality in virtually all communities today," police Chief Michael Uplegger said in a written statement. "Equipping our officers with Narcan is another critical tool in the toolbox for the fight against heroin in our community. I am extremely proud of the officers for taking quick action and saving the life of this young man."

Narcan is an antidote intended to counter the effects of opioid drugs, including heroin. West Chicago officers began carrying Narcan in February 2014 as the result of a countywide initiative to equip all DuPage police officers with the drug.

Since receiving and being trained in its use, West Chicago officers have administered Narcan on eight occasions: six times in 2014, once in 2015 and again last week.

DuPage Coroner Richard Jorgenson said Narcan has saved 97 lives countywide since being introduced in 2014. With three lives being saved already this year, Jorgenson said the overall tally could reach 100 very soon.

"It really is a tremendous tool to have at our advantage," Jorgensen said. "We're saving lives with it on a regular basis and it's a great, great thing."