Loss of Independence & Caretaking Film (dementia,parkinsons)

When On Golden Pond meets All in the Family meets Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, you get Driving the Daisies.

In October 2015, I came home to Oregon to pursue my acting career in a smaller market. But, the Universe had other plans. Instead, I became a full time caretaker for my grandparents when their health failed them. It was heartbreaking watching them lose their independence and have to ask for assistance. I quickly learned that there were so many things I didn't know or understand.

I realized there was so much information that needed to be shared with the public. During Covid I sat down and wrote a limited series called Driving the Daisies. I loosely based it off my award winning short, IMPACT. After table reads, getting feedback from multiple writers in Hollywood and several rewrites later, we are now moved into our funding stage.

Driving the Daisies is a dramedy musical that explores what it's like to lose independence as we age. It can be compared to: On Golden Pond meets All In the Family meets Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

As I continue to raise funds to film our Pilot episode, I am aware it is a process and will take time. I know that I need to get much of this information out now to support caretakers a.s.a.p Therefore, while raising funds, I have focused on educating the public at the same time with live events, videos and leaning on experts to help spread the word.

True Story: As my grandfather's dementia became progressively worse, I learned that his type of personality was consistent with aggressive behavior. It was extremely difficult to watch a gentle soul go through this deterioration without realizing what I was dealing with. Different types of personalities display different types of deteriorating traits in dementia .

A key part of this project is to educate so people will know what to expect, ahead of time, for when they become a caretaker for their loved one or have to make tough decisions.

My first live event took place in Coos Bay, OR. in May. I was able to bring in specialists from: Nutrition for aging bodies, Hospice, and a Specialist working with the aging population in the social service settings including Aging and People with Disabilities. Several of the attendees pulled me aside to tell me how beneficial the event was and how appreciative they were. I was able to put a good dent on our fundraising goals too.

What makes our show different? Our show is female driven and is primarily made up of older cast and crew right here in the Pacific Northwest. We tell the real stories of aging. We utilize humor and music to break up the seriousness of the topics. The majority of our music is original compilations.

Please support us in raising awareness for this important and relevant topic.

With your assistance, Driving the Daisies is one step closer to having our Pilot episode fully funded.

Thank You