Social Work goes to the Movies!

By Cheryl Blankenship Kupras, MSW, LCSW

May is Hepatitis C Awareness Month so it is only fitting that this month’s movie review deals with the topic of Hepatitis C! 

The Fix puts a human face on addiction and disease with sensitivity and grace through the recovery story of Junior, a young father, who is receiving treatment for his Hepatitis C at the same clinic where he receives addiction treatment using medication-assisted treatment with the medication methadone. 

I loved this film for a multiple of reasons.First, it shows a young man in medication-assisted treatment being successful in recovery and making progress in his life and goals of being a good father.

Secondly, the film showcases the real benefits of whole person, integrated primary care and behavioral health.

Thirdly, it illustrates the power of advocacy, peers and storytelling as instruments of change.

I had the pleasure of meeting Junior, as well as the filmmaker, at the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence Conference in March and he is as warm and friendly as the film portrays. 

This film is a deeply personal story both for Junior and the filmmaker whose own brother struggles with an opiate use disorder and gives a beautiful voice to a marginalized population. I encourage you to see The Fix. For more information, visit www.thefixdoc.com.