Self-esteem matters for fighting for one's health. The Overdose Prevention Society works with the regional health authority, paying drug users to save lives by running canopies near high-overdose areas, equipped with naloxone and oxygen tanks.

Kaia Sand | People who use drugs can also save lives

Drug users in Vancouver, British Columbia reverse overdoses through jobs paid by the regional health authority

The downtown task force must not promote image over the sanctity of life. We need the entire system to be stronger -- and I'm focused on writing about this as much as I can -- but that must include keeping people alive in the first place.