Create Ripples of Hope Documentary Film to Promote Health

My name is Debra Bingham, DrPH, RN, FAAN, and I am leading a documentary film project in memory of my son, David K. Jones, PhD. David was a professor of public health policy at Boston University and was deeply committed to health equity. He authored the book "Ripples of Hope in the Mississippi Delta: Charting the Health Equity Policy Agenda" that was under peer review at the time of his death. In his book, that I helped co-edit after his death, David identified 14 organizations and structures making a real difference in the lives of people living in the Mississippi Delta. After meeting these courageous leaders myself, I feel compelled to support and expand their work by bringing their stories to a wider audience.

This documentary will explore five topics that affect health, each corresponding to a chapter in David’s book: food, neighborhoods, jobs, education, and healthcare. The film will show how these five social conditions affect real people and also highlight groups and individuals working to eliminate health inequities. The film will also illustrate how structural constraints can impact health outcomes, sometimes causing preventable harm or even loss of life, as seen in David’s own story. Our goal is to inspire viewers to create their own ripples of hope in their communities.

We plan to begin filming in 2027, using 2025 and 2026 to secure funding. Individual donations will help demonstrate public interest to larger funding organizations. The finished documentary will be shared at film festivals, community events, and through educational channels. I am collaborating with Carolyn Jones, Lisa Frank, and Robert Gourley, experienced documentary filmmakers, to ensure the film reaches a broad audience. As a nurse educator and founder of the Institute for Perinatal Quality Improvement, I will also promote the film among health professionals and through social media, encouraging private screenings and community engagement. Your support will help bring these vital stories to light and drive meaningful change.