Jessica Courtright of Augusta, Georgia was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma over a year ago. 800 miles away in Connecticut, we heard about her story. What occurred thereafter became an incredible journey of engagement, hope and action.
BACKGROUND:
Parenting is no easy task. Ask Rebecca Courtright, whose daughter, Jessica was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The diagnosis set off a year of anxiety-filled moments, terrible setbacks and dark days. Using social media, they requested hope, prayers and (if possible) assistance. They posted regularly and shared heartbreaking photographs of Jessica’s struggle with the disease.
800 miles away, Jessica’s images were presented in a 228 basic filmmaking class. There, we discussed ideas for engagement and action. We connected with friends, associates and asked them to send in messages of hope for Jessica and her family. The objective was to infuse extreme amounts of kindness and light into the situation. While we did not know Jessica or her family, the simple act of engaging within this situation inspired so many to participate.
At CCSU, we have a community engagement initiative. As a film instructor, it is my hope that the films we produce are executed with inspired spirit, good intent, thought and a deep desire to communicate. In this very basic step, we wanted to let a family know, they were not alone.
THERE IS MORE TO DO:
The fiscal and emotional toll of pediatric cancer requires the engagement of many. If you are aware of those effected by this issue in Connecticut, let us know if we can help: CLICK HERE
Posted by: Jeffrey Teitler – Professor, Central Connecticut State University
Jessica Courtright of Augusta, Georgia was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma over a year ago. 800 miles away in Connecticut, we heard about her story. What occurred thereafter became an incredible journey of engagement, hope and action.
BACKGROUND:
Parenting is no easy task. Ask Rebecca Courtright, whose daughter, Jessica was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The diagnosis set off a year of anxiety-filled moments, terrible setbacks and dark days. Using social media, they requested hope, prayers and (if possible) assistance. They posted regularly and shared heartbreaking photographs of Jessica’s struggle with the disease.
800 miles away, Jessica’s images were presented in a 228 basic filmmaking class. There, we discussed ideas for engagement and action. We connected with friends, associates and asked them to send in messages of hope for Jessica and her family. The objective was to infuse extreme amounts of kindness and light into the situation. While we did not know Jessica or her family, the simple act of engaging within this situation inspired so many to participate.
At CCSU, we have a community engagement initiative. As a film instructor, it is my hope that the films we produce are executed with inspired spirit, good intent, thought and a deep desire to communicate. In this very basic step, we wanted to let a family know, they were not alone.
THERE IS MORE TO DO:
The fiscal and emotional toll of pediatric cancer requires the engagement of many. If you are aware of those effected by this issue in Connecticut, let us know if we can help: CLICK HERE
Posted by: Jeffrey Teitler – Professor, Central Connecticut State University
