New Beginnings

Yesterday would have been my 8th wedding anniversary with Valerie. For me it’s a time to remember the hope we had for our life together and a renewal of my hope for the future. With the election tomorrow, the last months and weeks have been specifically focused on the needs of average families across America. Their dreams and struggles have been brought into our homes each night as the candidates attempt to identify and carve out policy that will address the pressing issues facing us all. There is no doubt that issues surrounding healthcare will be at the forefront for the next administration. Each family is or will be facing circumstances regarding mortality, loss, spousal illness and parental dependence. This is our common reality and no one goes untouched. How to be prepared, prevent, pay for and emotionally survive these challenges will require the support of institutions, families and friends. Over the past months I’ve watched screenings of “Dying to Live” provide a cathartic forum and a catalyst for discussion by audiences relating to these truths of the human condition. As the film “illuminates the remarkable resiliency of the human spirit” they’ve been confronted to acknowledge the toughest decisions they face in their own lives. Watching one man face his own searing truth has enabled audiences to touch their greatest fears and begin to address them.

Recently I have been drawn into circles of orgs with specific missions of education and support for a variety of health and social issues. I’ve learned that my friend Joe Pantoliano has founded an organization called “No Kidding, Me Too!” This is a nonprofit org. comprised of entertainment industry members united in an effort to educate Americans about the epidemic related to brain dis-ease in all forms. The website is www.nokiddingmetoo.org Their work is both inspirational and moving, providing support to “Remove the Stigma!” for those affected by mental illness.

Discovering work like NKM2 brings with it hope in our ability to find new ways to use media to make a positive impact on society and the world. See you on the other side of the election when we all begin to move forward together.