Is ‘Take Care of Maya’ on Netflix Based on Real Story? Where Are Maya Kowalski and Dr. Sally Smith Now?

Published 06/23/2023, 1:30 PM EDT

via Imago

Do not succumb to the misguided notion that documentaries exist merely as somber and monotonous counterparts to fictional films. In reality, documentaries are enriched with diverse subjects and emotions. Netflix crime documentaries offer an engrossing exploration of real-life mysteries. From the acclaimed series Making a Murderer, which examines the controversial case of Steven Avery, to the chilling true crime saga of The Staircase, these documentaries take viewers on a thrill ride into the depths of criminal minds, courtroom drama, and the pursuit of truth. The latest addition to the documentary lineup: Take Care of Maya is another nightmarish account of the Kowalski family.

Stepping into a hospital, filled with hope and seeking solace from pain. Reality dawns—disappointment and frustration await. The terrible truth is revealed in Netflix’s latest documentary, Take Care of Maya. A family’s harrowing experience unfolds as they entrust their child’s well-being to the care of a hospital. These thought-provoking documentaries may be tough to watch, but they carry undeniable weight and urgency. But is Take Care of Maya just a documentary or is it actually based on a true story?

Divulging into the real story behind ‘Take Care of Maya’

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Take Care of Maya, directed by Henry Roosevelt, offers an intimate portrayal of Maya Kowalski’s tormenting journey. Prepare yourself for the shocker because this narrative is based on a real story! Unbearable pain plagued the life of Maya Kowalski, a young girl whose heart-wrenching true story unfolded. It all started when her parents, Beata and Jack, sought medical help for her severe abdominal pain at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.

Their quest for a medical solution to relieve Maya’s agony took an unexpected turn as they unknowingly became entangled in a child abuse investigation. In this tormenting account, you’ll witness Kowalski’s tumultuous ordeal and the profound impact it had on their lives. From the unjust accusations to the tragic loss, their story exposes the cracks within the healthcare and childcare systems.

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While the documentary did present Maya’s plight, the lingering question remains: where are the characters of this real-life story now?

Discover where the real-life protagonists of this fascinating narrative have ended up now

After All Children’s Hospital tore Maya from her family at a young age, she emerged as a young woman of extraordinary resilience, showcasing a story of endurance and tenacity. Maya’s path took a positive turn after her traumatic struggle, as she waved farewell to the confines of All Children’s Hospital in January 2017, leaving behind a chapter of her life that no one should have to suffer. Maya, now 16, has channeled her inner power into her daily workout practice as reported by Decider, which acts as a method of overcoming her chronic discomfort.

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Dr. Sally Smith, who was involved in instances that led to the removal of children from their families, is still a controversial figure. As the documentary shows, the Kowalski family’s experience is not an unusual one, with other legal guardians suing Smith for her decisions. Despite the criticism and litigation, Smith has defended her conduct, claiming that she always performed her job with diligence. Surprisingly, she has not faced any personal, professional, or legal consequences as a result of her role in these incidents. Furthermore, Dr. Sally Smith decided to depart from her job voluntarily this year.

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What do you think about this recent real-life Netflix documentary? Let us know in the comments below.

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Riva Khan

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Riva Khan is an entertainment reporter at NetflixJunkie. Given her love for the language and writing, she has honed her narrative skills from a young age. She loves her latest tea in Hollywood and keeps an eye on the news.

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