Andy_Irons
2019

Michigan Theater Ann Arbor, MI

with

Melvin McInnis

Director, Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program, Michigan Medicine; Thomas B. and Nancy Upjohn Woodworth Professor of Bipolar Disorder and Depression, University of Michigan

and

Charles Graham Jr.

Therapist and psychologist, University of Michigan Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry

Andy Irons: Kissed by God— Bipolar disorder and opioid addiction: myths vs reality

Three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons quietly battled bipolar disorder and opioid addiction throughout his life—demons that millions of others combat daily. His previously untold story tears down myths associated with the diseases. The film is followed by a panel discussion featuring Melvin McInnis and Charles Graham Jr, experts in the biology and treatment of bipolar disorder.

Michigan Theater Ann Arbor, MI

Film Synopsis

Three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons struggles with bipolar disorder and opioid addiction.

A film about bipolar disorder and opioid addiction as seen through the life of three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons. Andy struggled with the same demons that millions of people worldwide battle with daily. Andy was an incredible presence on the world stage as the "People's Champion." He was the pride of Hawaii and revered around the world for his blue collar rise to fame and success. However, many were unaware of his internal battles that led to his demise. As the opioid crisis rises to a national emergency in the United States, the untold story of Andy's life serves to tear down the myths associated with these two ferocious diseases.