11 min / documentary / 2004 / USA
filmmaker: Witness
With the help of local social services workers, Minerva is able to live independently and obtain the educational services the children need. But when Amy sparks a neighborhood conflict and Franky goes to her defense, Minerva’s parenting skills are put to the test.
Fragile X Syndrome is an inheritable sex-linked chromosomal disorder, and the second most common cause of developmental disability. This documentary takes viewers inside the life of a developmentally disabled woman who is struggling to raise three children who also have the syndrome. Mikey is severely developmentally disabled and has autism; unable to speak or care for himself, he requires constant supervision. The oldest, Franky, is on medication and struggles for maturity, but sometimes cannot control his anger. Amy, the youngest child, is charming, but hyperactive and a bit of a troublemaker.
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Tom holds a secret in his human heart; a wing beat and a flutter, and it’s bursting to take flight in this tale of magical realism.
Lou may have Down’s Syndrome but she is more than capable of looking after herself and she longs for independence.
A teenage girl who feels left out and ignored by her peers, is inspired to do something audacious in order to get noticed.
A playful and unsentimental portrait of Rene, a young man with Down syndrome, made by his close friend Duane Graves.
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