Ginger

Ginger is the story of how someone can overcome horrible news with the love and support of family and friends. The story shows how a survivor can take a bad situation, and grow from it to start a new chapter in their life. This movie and story inspires us to work to become the best that we can be, regardless of the cards we are dealt in life.

This film is my sister's masterpiece. It tells her story perfectly, as she wanted it told. Miss and love you, Melissa.

Seldom is this topic told with such authenticity, understanding and sincerity. No fanfare of triumphant human will or bulls**t emotional manipulation. A delightful character caught in a dynamic and emotionally challenging situation and forced to make some decisions she is ill-prepared to make. The true treasure of this film amongst many is the performance of Susan Gordon. An actress I was not familiar with prior to this viewing. Her performance is sublime and obviously motivated by a desire for authenticity and a desire to show respect for the subject matter and the people who have travelled this path. A tough subject well told.

I want to disclose a bias upfront that my daughter plays the role of Bree. However, the entire cast was incredible. The bottom line is, this film was masterfully written, produced and directed by Melissa and Jim Boratyn. We are blessed to have met with them in person several times and listen to their story first hand. Then, watching Ginger it was clear why Melissa was determined to tell her entire cancer experience to the world. Their ability to get Melissa's message out in such a powerfully emotional and humorous manner, on such a low budget, was amazing! This is a must see for current cancer patients, those in remission, caregivers and anyone who cherishes life.

Many of us take life for granted, most people live their entire life and have never lived. This film is a reminder that learning to live is the greatest mystery of life. Also, this film made me cry and laugh which is not easy.