It's September 22, Amber Yancey is setting up for one of the most meaningful days of her life.

What You Need To Know

  • Amber Yancey's son Keegan died of an overdose in September of 2019

  • Amber put together a 5K walk in memory of her son and to raise awareness of addiction recovery and treatment options

  • The walk raised over $2,000 for agencies in Lewis and Jefferson Counties

It's a bittersweet day as she prepares to begin a 5K walk to raise awareness of addiction and recovery, one year to the day her 25-year-old son Keegan lost his battle.

"It's nice to be able to do something that is constructive because it was such a tragic loss," Yancey said.

With no formal training in setting up events, just caring about those around her, Amber's efforts drew more than 50 people, including those who knew and loved Keegan, and even more who share her story, her loss.

"I think that if at least one person is out and gets the help that they need, or can reach out and talk to a family member and gets that help then Keegan didn't die in vain," Amber said.

As Amber took her first steps, she did so with friends and family by her side and a photo of Keegan in her hands.

"It means he stays with us. As long as he's in our memories and we talk about him and relive good memories, he's always with us," Amber said of that moment.

There was also one other by her side, that will ensure Keegan's memory does indeed live on. Amber pushed a stroller carrying baby Keegan, Amber's granddaughter and Keegan's daughter. She was born a few months after Keegan passed away and was named after her father.

"I am also very thankful that a part of Keegan gets to live on. He did not get to meet his daughter, but she's here with us now," Amber said.

In all, Amber's event raised more than $2,000 she says will be donated to agencies in Lewis and Jefferson Counties to raise awareness of addiction and help support those in treatment, taking one step at a time.