In November of 2007, I had my liver replaced. It was difficult, to say the least, but beyond that it was remarkable. Everyone I've talked to who has gone through a transplant agrees that it changes you, not just your health, but you, in a way that can be hard to describe. I've been a television producer and storyteller for over 30 years and from the time I woke up from surgery, I've been trying to articulate this event in a way that might be meaningful to others.
Telling only my own story isn't enough. There are many varieties of intensely personal experience that occur during the transplant process that magnify some of the basic ingredients of being alive as a particular person. Organ transplantation is also at the intersection of many issues challenging the health of our society and should have as many clear voices as possible in the public discourse.
I'm looking for people who would like to share their transplant experiences and be part of an independent film or a television series. If you've had a transplant or are awaiting one, if you've been or are preparing to become a donor, or if you are or were a caregiver, I'd like to hear from you.
Your personal stories will help to examine issues such as the American and other health care systems, the politics, economics and ethics of deciding who gets an organ, issues of identity when a part of you is replaced, controversies surrounding the medical definition of death and the future of organ replacement, negative cultural influences effecting the supply and demand of organs, the proliferating black market and the argument some are making to legalize it, and finally, and most importantly, an homage to donors as the real heroes of this narrative.
With your help, I have no doubt an original and compelling documentary will be completed and widely seen. My hope is that it will offer insight to future recipients and donors about how to navigate this difficult but miraculous terrain by better understanding the big picture that surrounds it.
If you're interested and you live in the New York area, please fill out the information below with a summary of your story or whatever you think might be relevant. Feel free to use or not use the list of personal topics to the right.
Many Thanks,
Jon
This information will remain strictly confidential until you give permission for your story to be told by signing a legal release form.
