VOICES FROM THE LIVED WORLD OF ILLNESS
 
The film series Voices From The Lived World of Illness™ underscores the impact of chronic and life threatening illness on patients, families, friends and medical practitioners. The first in the series on advanced cancer transports the viewer to the moment of diagnosis—the first chapter in the stories of 4 patients whose lives have been interrupted by illness. As the stories unfold and shift focus to the recurrent themes that patients face, we discover how the first chapter informs and influences the ones that follow.  The film gracefully guides the viewer into the in-illness experience and highlights patients’ expectations of doctors, the impact on one’s sense of self and relationships with others, spiritual issues, dying and hope. Particular attention is directed towards the differences in language, the impact of words and the complexities of communication in the patient—doctor relationship.

WHAT DOCTORS SAY
 
“The content of the film “Voices From The Lived World of Illness: Advanced Cancer” provokes deep discussion of communication barriers, facilitators and the use of effective language between patients and their caregivers. I plan to use it extensively in my teaching of these topics at Dartmouth Medical School and to encourage my colleagues at other medical schools to incorporate its use. If we can do a better job of connecting, of understanding each other, of hearing needs and concerns, and of unleashing inner strengths to promote healing, we will surely do a better job to lessen suffering and improve outcomes…”
Joseph F. O’Donnell, MD
Professor of Medicine, Dartmouth Medical School
Chief of Oncology, Dartmouth-affiliated White River Junction VA

“The film helps us, those of us who are in the profession doing this work every day, to take a couple of steps back and reflect on the human side of the cancer experience. To really take a plunge into the world of illness instead of being caught up in the busy-ness of ordering and interpreting tests, writing treatment orders and solving problems. Since I don't have to 'doctor' these patients or come up with recommendations for treatment, I can actually listen with more curiosity and spontaneity. I wish I could listen as well to my patients every day... It is true that in the act of listening we feel the pain, concerns, fears and hopes of these four courageous people who shared their wisdom.”
Lidia Schapira, MD
Massachusetts General Hospital
Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School

“The film is an excellent portrayal of living with cancer, as experienced by four individuals. The efficacy of the movie is in establishing a connection with the individuality of each patient…Congratulations to the Institute for producing this thoughtful and compassionate film.”
Mark Hoffman, M.D.
Assoc. Professor of Clinical Medicine
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
 

“It is a valuable teaching tool, particularly for medical and nursing students.”
Ira Byock, M.D.
Director of Palliative Medicine
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center