The issue of the drug epidemic in the region got national attention, thanks to the documentary “Heroin(e),” which is available on Netflix and was nominated for an Academy Award for best short subject documentary.

The film, featuring Ironton native and Huntington fire chief Jan Rader brought the crisis of overdoses the city faces into headlines and generated discussion across media.

Next month, another film on the subject will premiere, this time focusing on an individual’s efforts to overcome addiction and to correct a life in disarray.

“Choices: The Movie,” is based on the life of motivational speaker and author Ron James.

His book, “Choice – Lessons Learned From a Repeat Offender” chronicles his battle with drug and alcohol addiction, dealing drugs and the 25 years he spent in prison.

Since his release from prison, James has founded the Your Choice Foundation and has made it his mission to inspire others to make good choices with their lives.

He is a frequent motivational speaker in the region and has visited Ironton multiple times.

Filmed in Huntington, the movie will premiere there the weekend of April 20-21 at Christ Temple Church.

While some may not like to see so many films dealing with a dark subject matter coming from our region, the fat is, addiction is still rampant in the Tri-State.

Addressing the problem and keeping efforts focused on combating it will go a long way to helping and, hopefully, James’ personal story and lessons learned can help to change the underlying attitudes and sense of hopelessness many have felt.

We encourage everyone to see this film and to take James’ message to heart.