Netflix’s “Recovery Boys” was released on June 29 to critical acclaim.  The documentary portraying four young men and their journey through recovery, was directed by the Oscar-nominated Elaine McMillion Sheldon and featured Jacob’s Ladder, a treatment facility in Preston County. Upon watching the film, one can see a very familiar face in several scenes:  Nunzio Bonamico.

 

“My role at Jacob’s Ladder was that of a recovery coordinator,” said Bonamico.  “I helped the young men in any way there were interested in furthering their recovery, including coordinating their daily and nightly routines.”

 

During Bonamico’s time at Jacob’s Ladder, the film crew was there on a regular basis but the staff didn’t know what would make it into the final cut of the movie.  Although he no longer works at the facility, he remembers his time their fondly and has come to see just how valuable such a facility is in the recovery journey.

 

“The intentions behind Jacob’s Ladder were and are pure,” he said.  “The people who work there are there to change lives.”

 

Bonamico happened upon his position with Jacob’s Ladder after a close friend recommended him for the job.  He was interviewed by Dr. Blankenship, the director and owner of Jacob’s Ladder, and was intrigued by the possibilities of the program.

 

“The program was unlike anything I have ever been a part of,” he said.  “It was such a cool experience to see people change from broken individuals to people that have light and love to share, to see them come in hopeless and leave as new people is a miracle.”

 

Although Bonamico no longer works at Jacob’s Ladder, his life has been permanently affected by his experience there.

 

“Anyone affected by addiction has strong opinions on the subject. I struggled with addiction for several years and when the opportunity to help others was presented to me, I was ecstatic.  We as a society need more people who are willing to get their hands dirty and fewer people sitting on the sidelines either judging suffering people or doing nothing at all,” said Bonamico.

 

Bonamico was honored to be a part of the journey the young men featured in “Recovery Boys” continue to walk.  He still volunteers his time to people in need and feels this opportunity was not only life-changing, but views it as a part of his duty to give back to those who are suffering from addiction. 

 

“To be proactive in the midst of this epidemic is an honor and I am truly grateful for the chance to give back,” said Bonamico.

 

“Recovery Boys” is currently on Netflix and additional information about Jacob’s Ladder can be found at www.jacobsladderbrookside.com.