5 Movie Picks with a Bioethics Theme

A few new movies have appeared in theaters recently that can be added to what is becoming a growing cannon of films that tackle the many facets and complexities surrounding bioethical issues. Tonight, I saw one of them. This inspired me to compose a list of recent films (plus a classic or two) that help us better understand the medical humanities and perhaps, ourselves as they depict individuals answering the very personal questions of patient autonomy, “What do I want to happen to me, to my body for the sake of my health or medical care?”

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I’m Not Gonna Need ‘Em when I’m Dead

First Friday in First Person. At the age of 16, my brother made a simple but profound decision that all too soon came to affect a vast circle of people in ways they could not have imagined. I will never forget his excitement as he reached into his wallet to pull out his brand new driver’s license. He was so proud, taking the time to walk me through each element as if I’d never seen one before. He was like that; charismatic, easy-going with an infectious sense of humor. He pointed to the big heart indicating that he was an organ donor. “You’re an organ donor?” I interrogated. “Yeah…I’m not gonna need ‘em when I’m dead,” he replied in a matter-of-fact kind of manner. Such a simple phrase to encompass a basic concept. Yet the implications, the influence, the ultimate impact was in no way simple or basic. Needless-to-say, I never forgot those words. Little did I know, just five short years later, they would serve as the catalyst for my brother’s incredible legacy.

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On Valentine’s Day, Give the Ultimate Gift of Love

On this Valentine’s Day, choose to give the ultimate gift of love by giving the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.

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