On April 6th, Grant Morris addressed the Rotary Club of Nashua regarding the loss of his brother, Max, to fentanyl poisoning in January 2023—just one day before he was scheduled to enter treatment.
Grant shared how their relationship evolved over time—from distant brothers with a significant age gap to two men navigating similar struggles with addiction and mental health. He spoke candidly about how both he and his brother avoided confronting their emotions, instead turning to substances—an experience that resonated with many in the room.
He educated the group on the realities of fentanyl:
A synthetic opioid 50–100 times more potent than morphine
Increasingly replacing heroin due to low cost and ease of production
Responsible for tens of thousands of deaths annually in the U.S.
Grant emphasized that addiction does not fit a stereotype—it impacts everyday people, including those who appear successful and stable.
Following his brother’s death, Grant found healing through fly fishing—something they once shared. That experience became the foundation for his documentary film, The Wake, which explores:
Grief and loss
The opioid crisis
The healing power of nature and connection
A particularly moving moment came from a passage in his brother’s journal, reminding us that sometimes the most meaningful support we can offer others is simply showing up and sharing in life with them.
Grant is partnering with the United Way of Greater Nashua to raise funds for film distribution, with the goal of reaching a wider audience and sparking important conversations around addiction and mental health.
His courage in sharing such a personal story will leave a lasting impact on all in attendance.