Extraordinary Measures

Currently my Tracheostomy parent support group is a buzz about a new Brendan Fraser movie, Extraordinary Measures. And who wouldn't be attracted to a movie with the tagline - Don't hope for a miracle. Make One. It's pure genius. It's so good I want to "borrow" it for my new blog. Oh did I say new blog? Silly me. Anyway, back to Brendan Fraser, the movie opens here in Los Angeles tomorrow and I am very interested to see it.

The movie is based on the real life experience of an inspirational parent, John Crowley, fighting against doctors, insurance and time for his critically ill children. Sound familiar? The children have a rare genetic disease and Trachs. Sound REALLY familiar? So maybe interested isn't quite the right word, EXCITED fits the bill much better.

I'm not sure how gritty it will get in terms of showing how difficult the life of a family caring for a medically fragile child really is. Although I did hear that it might be a tear jerker and the audience may cheer at one point so I am pretty sure they do a good job of conveying that aspect. Although not news to me, I suppose in Hollywood the real story is about John Crowley's dedication to being an advocate for his children. His wife, Aileen Crowley, admits to being asked that question that most parents of special needs children get 'How do you do it?' I like her answer, because it's the same one I give. 'You just do it.'

I choose to surround myself by those who wake up every morning and fight. That is how I do it. And the simple fact that you are here reading along and sharing Austin's life shows me that that how you roll too! So if when the nurse comes to work tomorrow I am going to get myself some popcorn and go see a matinee. Alone.

I am beyond happy that a major motion picture studio, albeit a new one, has decided this story is worth telling. Thank you, CBS Films. Based on the movie trailer, it sort of reminds me of Lorenzo's Oil, which I loved. The movie also stars Harrison Ford, as the driven scientist and Keri Russell, as mom Aileen. I hope you will get a chance to check this one out too!

If you are looking for other movies featuring a physically or mentally challenged character you can check out this list that Ellen has on her blog. If I had Netflix I would add them all.


Thanks for peeking,