Anything You Lose

Anything You Lose (AYL) is a brilliant and much-needed acknowledgment of the millions of people who face the emotionally devastating, misunderstood, and isolating experiences through the infertility journey. This film is also an opportunity for viewers to witness a most intimate expression of the emotional complexity and multilayered impact of infertility, to further their awareness, and to be informed about the realities of the reproductive technologies industry. AYL is a visceral experience, weaving the dimensions of infertility in ways that cut through the layers of cultural silence and taboo, to reveal an undeniable need for greater understanding and compassion toward those who experience infertility loss. AYL is a true gift for anyone open to receiving it.

~Christine J. Erickson, Founder, New Legacy Institute.

A beautiful, emotionally charged look at the realities of people facing infertility. This is a much needed exploration of the modern tribulations of the medical industry and the true driving forces behind decisions made by Big Medicine. The storytelling lens of mental health is a fresh and honest one, making the connection to the subject matter that much more meaningful. There is a clear cinematic, visual perspective and all of the unique choices fit wonderfully within the overall structure of the film. The vulnerability and tenderness with which this film is made makes it a must watch for anyone going through troubles relating to family and pregnancy.

Anything You Lose covers an area you rarely hear about: how purveyors of medical fertility treatments and surrogacy over sell success. It is a true story about the gutsy filmmaker's experience trying, and failing, to start a family after being promised more than could be delivered. The documentary is well paced and dramatic, and features real people you begin to empathize with as you travel with them to India and Manhattan in search of treatments that will bring them their bundle of joy, but which ultimately fail to do so. In the end, the film maker gains insight that she never anticipated, as a hope unfulfilled some how leads to fulfillment that she never expected. It's about the meaning of life. It should also be seen by medical professionals and legislators, who could gain valuable insights about the impact of scurrilous marketing that exploits the yearning for parenthood.