By Lilli Dubler, Building Kentucky
Since losing her son to substance use disorder (SUD), Nancy Blackford has become a fierce advocate for addiction recovery resources in the Commonwealth.
“I reflected on the many ways I could give back to the community that I love and that had given so much support to my family,” Blackford said. “I wanted to make a lasting difference, so I founded a group called Bridge the Gap. I learned, shortly afterward, about the Kentucky Agency for Substance Abuse Policy (KY-ASAP), which aligned perfectly with my passion for helping others, especially those struggling with substance abuse.”
With encouragement from former Woodford County Judge Executive John Coyle, Blackford joined the KY-ASAP Board of Directors. After serving her time as a voting board member, Blackford took on the role of KY-ASAP Coordinator – a natural next step for her.
“I’ve always believed that in order to truly touch people’s hearts, we must be diligent stewards of the resources entrusted to us,” Blackford said. “My goal is to ensure that every Woodford County dollar is used wisely for its intended purpose, (as it relates to) helping those affected by substance abuse. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about changing lives, and that’s a responsibility I take very seriously.”
Blackford continued, “I’m committed to making this program not just another initiative, but a beacon of hope and recovery for those who need it most. Together, with a clear vision and a shared commitment, we can make a real difference in the lives of many.”
While the KY-ASAP program made strides in prevention education, Blackford quickly realized that more needed to be done for addiction treatment.
“Prevention is crucial, but so is providing comprehensive, innovative treatment options,” she said. “We need to think outside the box, explore new approaches, and be willing to take calculated risks. After all, that’s how breakthroughs happen – by daring to try something different.”
Blackford expressed that innovative new resources and treatment options in the Commonwealth, like the NET Device available at Isaiah House, could be game-changing for addiction recovery.
“I don’t want the fear of withdrawals and other barriers to keep anyone from reaching out for help,” she said. “These things were my son’s fear – he worked so hard to achieve greatness in a career and education, which he did, but he was constantly fearful. Isaiah House has an incredible new treatment option in the NET Device – something that I wish was available for my son.”
Larry Blackford, Jr. graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Videography. He had a passion for visual arts, which led to the creation of his own media company, LB Productions. In his memory, his friends started the Larry G. Blackford, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, which grants Woodford County High School students a scholarship to pursue an undergraduate education in a creative field.
“Larry would have loved for someone to continue their education in something that he loved,” Blackford said. “My son was a bright light to everyone with many talents. He had a hobby being an electrifying professional drummer; he infused life into every beat. Yet, what truly defined my son is the kindness that radiated from his very being. In a world often overshadowed by negativity, Larry would not tolerate negativity or injustice. My fight now is to continue his legacy over coming negativity stigma and injustice for those seeking treatment from suffering with substance abuse.”
As an extension of her advocacy for addiction recovery, Blackford joined the Isaiah House Board of Directors in May 2024. She continues to support KY-ASAP and helps coordinate the Larry G. Blackford, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, building a legacy for her son.
