Jimmy  Darts

SB Mowing

Pattie Gonia

Little Miss Flint

Kalina Silverman / @makebigtalk on Instagram

Samuel Weidenhofer

Patriotic Kenny Foundation

Ben Saunders - Flawless Cleaning

The Dogist

Peter Bond

Amy Jandrisevits

Ask Uncle Jack

That Good News Girl

Tess Bohne

FowlMouthFarmer

Latonja and Taylor Richardson

Officer Richard Craig

Flavor Flav

John Wolfe

Khloe

<div>To everyone who has supported Solaar and her family through this unimaginable journey thus far, thank you.
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<div>In October 2024, at the age of 5, Solaar was diagnosed with a stage 2 unfavorable diffused anaplastic Wilms tumor, a rare and extremely aggressive childhood kidney cancer that required emergency surgery to remove her left kidney. After a year of intense chemo, she spent 9 months healing at home with her brothers, little sister, and parents.
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<div>We recently received news that <strong>the cancer has returned and metastasized to her lungs</strong>. Solaar, now 7, and her parents are currently at Boston Children's Hospital for the foreseeable future. They are entering an even more aggressive chemo treatment than the last protocol. <strong>Meaning they will need to stay at the hospital for the following 6 months to a year.</strong>
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<div>We are absolutely heartbroken and don’t understand why Solaar has to endure so much at such a young age.
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<div>We are starting a new GoFundMe, as all the funds were used during their first treatment. If you have ever been through a life-changing situation like this before, you know that the world doesn’t stop turning around you. The bills and responsibilities are still there and continue to come.
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<div>It’s almost impossible not to feel completely helpless in a situation like this. If you know Mya, I am sure she’s lent you a helping hand in some way, shape, or form. If you know Solaar, you know there is nothing she can’t do.
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<div>It’s time to RALLY again. Do what we can to help Mya and Kris focus on the task at hand. Do what we can so that Solaar is 100% supported. And do what we can to support Taigan, Creedence, and Navi, Solaar’s siblings. This time will be different. We are more prepared and have a better understanding of the difficult journey ahead.
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<div>Solaar has the best parents she could have ever asked for. If we help them, they can help Solaar get through this. Let’s show them the LOVE they need and hold them in our thoughts.
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<div><strong>One share can generate 10 donations.</strong> Spread the love.
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Help Solaar and Her Family Stay Strong!

<div>On Thursday, July 16, 2026, 11-year-old Yende Jones-Merritt was in a very serious car accident in Barbados. Her mother and sister were also in the accident—thankfully, they are both doing okay and recovering. Yende, however, is currently in critical condition at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown, receiving dialysis to help stabilize her while doctors work around the clock to keep her safe.
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<div>Her injuries are extensive—too many to list here—and the level of care she needs goes beyond what is available on the island. Fundación Valle del Lili Pediatric Hospital in Colombia has agreed to accept her, and she is scheduled to be airlifted there this Tuesday. 
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<div>Yende has deep roots in St. Philip and St. Michael parishes. She is loved by so many across both communities, and we're asking everyone who knows her, her parents, or our extended family to come together for her right now.
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<div>As far as the family currently understands, Yende's health insurance is expected to cover a significant portion of the airlift and hospital costs, and her mother's employer has also generously offered to help. But the exact breakdown isn't yet known, and there will certainly be real costs beyond what insurance covers—we won't know the full excess amount until she is admitted in Colombia. Our early estimate, based on a U.S. hospital's initial quote of a $500,000 admission deposit plus an airlift starting at U.S. $50,000, gives us a sense of the scale of costs involved in this kind of emergency care, and we're using it as a guide for our fundraising goal.
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<div>Your gift today could be the reason Yende — and her family — get through this without an added financial burden on top of everything else.
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<div>WHY WE'RE ASKING FOR HELP:
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<div>Our family is doing everything we can, but a bill of this size, on this timeline, is beyond what we can raise on our own. Every hour matters right now. For full transparency: Yende's airlift and hospital costs are expected to be partially covered by health insurance, though the exact amount isn't yet confirmed, and there will certainly be additional funds required to support her care and recovery, and her family's ability to be with her as she recovers.
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<div>Funds raised will go directly toward:
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<div>•	Any medical or airlift costs beyond what insurance covers
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<div>•	Accommodation, transport, and incidentals for her mother, father, and sister while they are with her in Colombia
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<div>•	Ongoing treatment and recovery support
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<div>For full transparency: Yende's airlift and hospital costs are expected to be partially covered by health insurance, though the exact amount isn't yet confirmed, and there will certainly be additional funds required to support her care and recovery, and her family's ability to be with her as she recovers. We are asking for urgent help from our community, friends, and anyone moved by Yende’s story. Any support you can offer is deeply appreciated and will make a real difference in her fight for recovery.
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<div>HOW FUNDS WILL BE MANAGED:
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<div>Since GoFundMe cannot send funds directly to a bank account in Barbados, I (Tiffini Swanston) am serving as the fundraiser organizer through my U.S. bank account. Funds raised here will be sent directly to the hospital and airlift providers wherever possible, with any remaining funds directed to the family for travel, lodging, and related costs. We're committed to using every dollar for Yende's care and will share updates as funds are used.
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<div>HOW YOU CAN HELP
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<div>•	Donate — any amount helps us get closer to what she needs
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<div>•	Share — please share this page with anyone who might be able to give
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<div>•	Pray / send strength — for Yende and for our whole family right now
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<div>She is only 11 years old. She should be worrying about school and friends, not fighting for her life. With your help, we can get her to the care she needs as fast as possible.
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<div>Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We will post updates here as we know more.
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<div>— Tiffini Swanston (cousin), Cherie Jones (mother), Harvey Merritt (father), Brandon Jones (brother), Xavi Jones (brother), and the rest of the Jones and Merritt / Merrick clan
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<div>LOCAL TO BARBADOS?
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<div>If you're in Barbados and able to donate blood in person, Yende's care team also has an urgent need at the Barbados National Blood Collection Centre in Bridgetown, Saint Michael. Financial support remains the most immediate way to help her get the specialized care she needs.
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Urgent Medical Support for Yende's Critical Care

<div><em><span class="ql-cursor">﻿</span>Alex's Butterflies</em> is a short film for children affected by deportation. Currently, <strong>no</strong> media exists for children to process this horror, and platforms that would normally discuss this such as PBS or Sesame Street are dealing with major funding cuts.
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<div>At its core, this is a story about family, love, anxiety, and the looming threat of separation. It explores questions that no child should have to ask: 
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<div>What is ICE? 
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<div>Why are they taking moms and dads? 
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<div>What if they take me too? 
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<div>Is this my fault?
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<div>With a child-like and nostalgic atmosphere, Alex’s Butterflies uses puppetry to take us through the life of a tiny bunny waiting for the school bus. Like many children, Alex feels anxiety in the morning about going to school, but he doesn’t know how to articulate it. In the style of Sesame Street, mommy helps him navigate his complicated feelings by scaring the butterflies in his stomach away.
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<div>Starring Sesame Street star Andrew Cano
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<div>Written and Directed by Oscar-qualifying Director Jess Senquiz, and Disney Concept Artist Beth Leak 
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Educational Media for Children Afraid of Deportation

<div>Hi everyone. I am really scared to do this. But I just gently “lectured” a friend that a person who needs help should never be shamed or ridiculed for asking for it. I often say we have to be the change we want to see.
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<div>My name is Tom. And in July 2023, <strong>I was sexually assaulted in my own home</strong>, making me now a twice survivor; I am a repeated physical violence survivor too. I simply assumed because it had happened once before, I could simply “fast forward” my recovery. And then in May 2024, as I was finally on the mend, I learned I lost my job.
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<div>It hurt… because as an autistic person who has gone through even more than I am still letting on, I was FINALLY succeeding in life. I was doing great at a high-paying job, I was getting 2 masters and in a paralegal program all at once… while working full time! I finally won! My attacker took so much from me that day. Most autistic people are unemployed and do not graduate college for context. Let me take a step back and tell you more about who I am. I write papers on quantum AI, unconventional computing (a new &amp; exciting branch of computer science), and recently authored a paper on how to get the world to net zero by 2040. My papers are almost always focused on how tech could be used to save lives or help the most vulnerable.
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<div><strong>Things are really bad. But to quote my favorite movie “The night is darkest before the dawn.” With your help, I can walk out of the darkness and back into the light.</strong> Every dollar you send goes to either basic necessities or my academic pursuits so I can continue studying how tech might save lives — I am happy to provide copies of my existing work upon request. Thank you. <strong>And to any fellow survivors — it’s never your fault, it’s never OK, and getting help is the bravest thing you can ever do.</strong>
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Help Tom Rebuild After Assault and Job Loss

<div>Hi, my name is Kate Corriveau and my sister and her family were devastated by the Eaton Canyon wildfire in Altadena on January 9, 2025.
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<div>Meghan and her husband Ryan and their baby son Milo lost everything in their beloved neighborhood where they purchased their home only a few years ago. The place where they dreamed of raising Milo and the whole surrounding community is no longer standing.
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<div>Meghan and Ryan are both in the film industry. Meghan is a screenwriter and Ryan works on the technical side. They both were extremely affected by the strikes last year in the industry, and were just starting to get back on their feet when this devastating fire hit their beautiful neighborhood and completely obliterated their community.
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<div>Meghan and Ryan have a gorgeous seven month old son, two rescue dogs and two cats and are struggling with how to rebuild after losing everything. Meghan did not even get to take her wedding ring and they don’t have much more than the clothes on their backs.
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<div>If you could donate any amount to help support them as they figure out next steps, it would be greatly appreciated.
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<div>Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.
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Rebuild Hope for Meghan, Ryan & Milo

<div>Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters,
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<div>The past few days have been devastating for the Kanan family. The fires in the Palisades destroyed my grandmother’s home and left many of our family members, including cousins, without their homes. Adding to this heartbreak, my mom’s business, Oasis Palisades, was also lost in the tragedy. This wellness center wasn’t just a source of income—it was her passion and a cornerstone of our community, offering care, support, and healing to so many.
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<div>With the ripple effects of these events have left us overwhelmed emotionally and financially. Compounding the devastation and the closures in all industries, which has left our family without. Without this steady income, it has become a challenge to meet even the most basic needs for our family .
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<div>We are reaching out for support during this incredibly difficult time. Your contributions will help us cover essential needs like food, bills, and day-to-day expenses, as well as assist my family in navigating the loss of my mom’s business and supporting our displaced family.
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<div>Whether you are able to donate or share our story, your kindness and generosity and prayers mean more than words can express. Every act of support reminds us that we are not alone and gives us hope for a brighter future.
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<div>Thank you for being a source of strength for the Kanan family during this time of unimaginable loss.
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<div>With love and gratitude,
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<div>The Kanan Family
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Support the Kanan Family Through Devastating Times

<div>Help feed the LA City Fire Air Ops out of Van Nuys - the fire fighters who are dropping water!
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<div>My name is Amy Marella (from Calabasas, CA)  and my brother, Dan Child is the Chief Pilot at the LA City Air Ops station 114 based out of Van Nuys. He is one of the dedicated air support firefighters you see dropping water over the flames in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas. His station has approx 25 guys that work tirelessly day and night.
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<div>When they return to the station, the entire Air Ops team is responsible for cooking their own meals—breakfast and dinner—before heading back out to the frontlines. We want to help ease this burden so they can focus on getting the rest they need to stay strong for the next shift.
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<div>With your support, we aim to provide daily meals for these hardworking heroes, allowing them to take a break from cooking and better recharge for their vital work. Even a small contribution of $5 will make a difference in making sure they have nutritious meals ready when they need them most.
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<div>Since we surpassed our goal by SO MUCH (everyone is incredibly generous)
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<div>We will be getting them new sleeping mattresses, new washer/dryers, recliners etc. Some upgrades to their existing space. With the balance of the funds we will put the money into their "house account" (see more info below about the foundstation) at the station that they can use for further needs throughout the year.
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<div>All of the funds will be given directly to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation as the beneficiary. The Foundation will use the funds to purchase the essential appliances and items mentioned above for he LAFD Air Ops Station 114 through the Adopt-A-Fire Station Program.
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<div>Thank you for helping us show appreciation and support to those putting everything on the line to protect our communities.
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Meals Delivered for the LA City Air Ops  - Van Nuys

<div>My name is Adrian Bishop. My brother Stefan, his wife Abby and their son Truet lost their home as did many others, in the fire storm of the Eaton fire. They will need lots of help with. They are just beginning to deal with the mounting non-covered expenses coming their way. Please give what you can.
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<div>A letter from Stefan and Abby:
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<div>Our home and our home town is gone. There are waves of grief. And waves of sweet memories.
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<div>We met at the Rancho - a beloved local establishment in Alta Dena (now gone). We got married in Altadena, and we raised our children here. This home was the only home our son Truet knew. He lost his school, his home and his town all at once. We were one of many displaced by this tragedy.
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<div>We want everyone to know that all the outpouring of support makes us feel seen and supported and loved, it goes straight to our heart. We are so humbled.
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<div>We are unmoored and lost at this time. We loved this house. Abby made this house the sweetest home ever, in the middle of this sweet garden town. The memories are wonderful. But now we need to look to the future. We need to begin to rebuild. We’ve decided to take on the term "Home Free" - so we are turning our eyes to our future.
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<div>When we opened our suitcases to see what we still owned - it was a shock. It's shocking to the core to lose everything. So now we begin to look forward again with our beautiful community at our backs. We’re so grateful. Thank you so much for all the love and support.
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<div>Stef, Abby, True, Lucy (the beagle)
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Help Stefan, Abby, and True After Fire

<div>We are so deeply touched by all the friends &amp; family who have already donated to our dear friends Tom &amp; Kristen. We can't tell you how much we appreciate your generous spirit. The outpouring of love for them is beautiful to witness. THANK YOU!!!  If you would like to donate, please know that no amount is too small. And you can donate anonymously. If you can't donate, we would be so grateful if you could PLEASE SHARE this post on your social media. 
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<div>For those of you who are just seeing this post, our dear friends of many years, Tom &amp; Kristen Addy, their son Dylan O’Meara and sweet dog Petey lost their home and all their belongings in the Eaton fire of Altadena, California on January 8, 2025. The fire moved quickly into their neighborhood, so we are grateful they are all safe. This was a beautiful home that they worked very hard for and had just, in the past few months, finished renovating. To lose it so quickly is beyond devastating for them. All their precious keepsakes, mementos and personal possessions stolen by this horrible fire. As you look around your home...try to fathom what it would feel like for everything you have worked so hard for to be gone. It’s heartbreaking.
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<div>Please join us in helping this amazing &amp; loving family to rebuild their lives and start over. Your donation will go directly to Tom &amp; Kristen. We want to get funds to them ASAP since they are displaced. So, your generosity would be greatly appreciated.
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<div>Thank you,
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<div>Wayne &amp; Katherine Miracle, Mark Vincent &amp; Melissa Aggeles-Vincent and Peter &amp; Sheri Weller (We are life-long friends of the family.)
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<div>#AltadenaStrong
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<div>#PayItForward
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<div>#StartingOver
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<div>#FriendsAndFamily
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<div>#BuildBack
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<div>#HopeAndLove
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Help Tom & Kristen Addy rebuild after the Eaton fire!

<div><strong>Our beloved Tatiana, who has always been a beacon of generosity, creativity, and support, is now facing an unimaginable challenge.</strong>
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<div>On May 30th, while visiting her chiropractor, she experienced a series of seizures in her car. Saved by the quick actions of the chiropractor and their staff, <strong>subsequent MRIs revealed an aggressive malignant brain tumor (Glioblastoma) </strong>in her frontal lobe.
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<div>Given the tumor’s rapid growth, Tatiana will undergo an <strong>urgent craniotomy, followed by radiation and chemotherapy.</strong> This intensive treatment plan offers the best chance of prolonging her life, with a median survival of 12-18 months.
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<div>Unfortunately, this all comes at an extremely high financial cost, as family medical leave only holds her employment until August 23rd. After a lifetime of working several jobs simultaneously (literally up until her seizures), she will lose all employment, medical insurance and income while in recovery from surgery. Because of this, she will need to purchase additional medical insurance to bridge the months between August and late December when she can apply for Medicare.
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<div>If you’ve been fortunate enough to have Tatiana in your life in any capacity, it’s likely she’s among the most generous and supportive people you know. Her boundless capacity for love and empathy has provided the light that’s guided many of us through our darkest days.
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<div>A first time mom at 16 with two kids by her 19th birthday, she would have another at 24 and raise all three as a single immigrant parent with a relentless drive to support them in every way.
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<div>Despite the challenges (including a successful battle with breast cancer in 2015), she’s always been there for those around her, offering her time, love, guidance, and unwavering support. Whether through her work as a medical language interpreter helping patients navigate difficult moments, her creative pursuits as an art curator and singer/songwriter, or her personal acts of kindness, Tatiana has touched countless lives.
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<div>Now, it’s our turn to support her. <strong>Our goal is to raise funds to cover her living expenses, medical bills, and ensure she’s as comfortable as possible during this difficult time</strong>. We want Tatiana to spend her remaining time surrounded by love, comfort, and the people she cherishes.
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<div>Tatiana’s life has been a journey of love, creativity, and resilience. She has inspired us all with her boundless empathy, her laughter, and her wisdom. Let’s come together to help this incredible woman who has given so much to so many.
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<div>Listen to some of Tatiana's original music and donate to the cause via <a href="https://tatianamindlin.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bandcamp</a> .
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Support Tatiana Mindlin in Her Fight Against Brain Cancer

<div><strong>About the Film</strong>
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<div>I'm Ernie Bustamante and I am the director of an independent documentary feature about Sonia Manzano, who broke barriers as the first Latina on television in a regular role. For an impressive 44 years, Sonia captivated generations of children as “Maria” on SESAME STREET.
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<div>This film is being produced in collaboration with award-winning showrunner and producer, Steven Canals, co-creator of POSE.
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<div>In this character-driven film, we follow Sonia’s incredible journey from her challenging upbringing in the Bronx to her iconic character and current role as a television producer.
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<div>Along the way, Sonia imparts valuable lessons, offering audiences an opportunity to learn once again from this beloved figure.
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<div>Through engaging commentary, lively animation, and comedic sketches, the film tells the story of resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment.
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<div><strong>Why We Are Raising Money</strong>
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<div>We started this film in 2022 and we are almost finished. We have 5 shoot days left to complete the film and we need your support to bring this project to fruition.
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<div>Your contributions will help cover:
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<li>Production costs (equipment, crew, locations)
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<li>Post-production (editing, sound design, music)
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<li>Marketing and distribution (ensuring the film reaches a wide audience)
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<div><strong>Contribution Levels</strong>
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<div>We have several contribution levels, each with unique rewards to show our appreciation. Please note that each contribution level includes all the perks of the lower tiers, except for the film credits, which are unique to each level.
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<li><strong>$25+ (Movie Ticket)</strong>
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<div>Supporters will receive a link to view the film.
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<li><strong>$75+ (VIP Ticket)</strong>
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<div>Supporters will get early access to the film before Official Release.
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<li><strong>$100+ (Social Media Shout Out)</strong>
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<div><em>Supporters will receive an Online "Thank You" on social media.</em>
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<li><strong>$600+ (Credits Mention)</strong>
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<div>Supporters will be mentioned in the section: <em>“This Film Was Made Possible With the Support Of..." </em>at the end of credits. <em> </em>
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<li><strong>$1,500+ (Contributing Producer)</strong>
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<div>Supporters will be credited as "<em>Contributing Producer</em>" at the end of credits.
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<div><strong>Director’s Statement</strong>
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<div>As a Puerto Rican writer and filmmaker, I am drawn to stories about the Latino experience in America. Reading Sonia's memoir, "Becoming Maria," I related deeply to her journey, especially her love of television as a source of sanctuary.
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<div>My connection with Sonia grew when I developed her memoir for television. Working with Sonia and Steven Canals, we created a half-hour comedy about a Puerto Rican family and a protagonist caught between two worlds—a theme explored in this film.
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<div>In 2020, during the pandemic, Sonia asked me to write for her new PBS animated show, ALMA'S WAY. I felt so lucky to learn from Sonia and thought, “What if others had the opportunity to learn from Sonia’s wisdom as an adult?” She could answer so many questions, like: How did she get to Sesame Street? How did she persevere?"
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<div>By sharing Sonia's remarkable journey, I hope to celebrate her achievements, inspire audiences, and highlight the critical role of media in educating and empowering.
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<div>At a time when critical history is being erased and Latinx representation on television is stagnate, this film is an opportunity to shine a light on a Latina trailblazer -- who continues to forge a path for our community.
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<div><strong><em>Donate Now and Join Us in Celebrating Sonia Manzano!</em></strong>
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Support Documentary on Latina Trailblazer Sonia Manzano

<div>From the team who brought you the award-winning series ROMANTIC ENCOUNTERS WITH MELINDA HILL (watch here: <a href="https://tinyurl.com/33hmke7w)" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://tinyurl.com/33hmke7w" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://tinyurl.com/33hmke7w</a>)</a> and the comedy special MELINDA HILL: INAPPROPRIATE now streaming on Amazon (watch here <a href="https://tinyurl.com/n7be2td4)" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://tinyurl.com/n7be2td4" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://tinyurl.com/n7be2td4</a>)</a> comes a new hour of comedy focused on healing heartbreak. This special will help people walk through devastation with resilience and teach them how to recreate a beautiful life for themselves while being heal-arious: healing with humor.
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<div>Who are we? We are comedian Melinda Hill (seen/heard on Adventure Time, Reno 911, Lady Dynamite, Love, Weddings and Other Disasters, etc.) and Adam Franklin (director of the Emmy nominated Netflix series Magic For Humans.) We love making stuff and you can trust us to create what we set out to create.
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<div>Your generosity will support the pre-production, ideation, residencies, touring, creation and all the other elements that go into making an hour of heal-arity. I (Melinda) will be updating you by documenting my journey as I go along on my Vlog at MelindaHill.Substack.com and here.
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<div>If you are interested in contributing by booking a consulting session with me, commissioning a personalized video, hosting and/or booking me for a comedy show in your town, or coming onboard as an angel investor donate here first and then contact me on Instagram @RealMelindaHill (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/realmelindahill)" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/realmelindahill" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.instagram.com/realmelindahill</a>)</a> to talk more. We also have a limited number of producer credits if you’d like to contribute $5,000 or above, and EP credits for $10K or above. Back us here and I will reach out!! Thank you for all of your support, we love you so much and we love making insightful and empowering comedy for you.
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Make Melinda Hill's Messterpiece Comedy Special

<div>Hi, My name is Olia. I'm fundraising for my film project, titled <strong><em>MAMA BEAR</em>.</strong> It's a dark fairytale that gives hope to children who live in violent households with substance abuse problems.
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<div><strong>Our main character Mila</strong> is forced outside in freezing snow by her abusive alcoholic father. Little Mila meets a monstrous bear who takes her mom's body but gives her something in return...
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<div><strong>Why this story?</strong>
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<div>Substance abuse is one of the top three causes of domestic violence in the world. Alcoholism is the main cause of crimes and domestic abuse in Eastern European countries. Thousands of children and women suffer every day but are too afraid to ask for help.
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<div>Growing up in the freezing temperatures of Siberia I witnessed terrible scenarios where mothers ran out in the cold with their children to escape their violent husbands. My mother and I were once forced out in the snow by our drunk grandfather who chased us with a gun. Standing on her bare feet to keep warm, I remember looking at my steamed breath and thinking “this is the end.”
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<div><strong>My Goal</strong>
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<div>This is the very first step to getting some funds for a bigger campaign. I'm tremendously grateful for any support even if it's just spreading the word. Let's make a change together!
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MAMA BEAR film project - give hope to children

<div>And now for a little question-and-answer session...

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<div><strong>Q: Who are you?</strong>

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<div>A: I'm just this guy, you know? But more specifically, I'm a full-time freelance pop culture writer. The last time I did one of these things, I was regularly contributing to the AV Club, Looper, Rhino.com (the website for Rhino Records), TV Week in Vancouver, BC, and The Virginian-Pilot, the daily newspaper for the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

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<div>These days, I’m still writing regularly for Rhino (although in a different capacity) and TV Week in Vancouver, BC (although less than I was six years ago because the magazine has shrunk in size). I stopped writing for the A.V. Club in solidarity with my longtime cohorts who got the shaft by their corporate overlords, Looper opted out of my services after I found myself struggling to come up with mind-numbing listicles, and The Virginian-Pilot barely even exists anymore, and I got weary of coming up with dozens of pitches and not having any of them accepted, so I just stopped pitching. Now I write for Decider with as much regularity as their budget allows, I’ve been doing lists for EW’s website (the only option, since they discontinued the print edition), and I continue to pitch other outlets, albeit with considerably less success than I’d prefer. 

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<div>That said, I now have a Substack newsletter (<a href="http://willharris.substack.com" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">http://willharris.substack.com</a>), and I’ve been doing several pieces for that, including both print and video interviews. In fact, that’s one of the biggest reasons that brings us together today...

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<div><strong>Q: What are you raising money for?</strong>

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<div>A: I'm raising money to pay for my trip to the TCA winter press tour.

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<div><strong>Q: Yeah, I don't know what that is.</strong>

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<div>A: That's not actually a question, but I've got you covered, chief. "TCA" is an acronym utilized by many organizations, but in this instance, it stands for "Television Critics Association," and I've been a proud, dedicated member since 2007. As to the TCA press tour, the best way I've found to describe it is as a bi-annual dog-and-pony show held by the broadcast, cable, and streaming networks in order to trot out the majority of their new and returning programming for the next six months.  But this doesn't really give you an idea of everything that goes on, so let me give you the most succinct nutshell summary I can manage.

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<div>There’s a summer tour and a winter tour. The winter tour tends to be shorter than the summer tour, and this time around it’s as short as it’s ever been, at least in my personal experience. It starts on January 9 and wraps up on January 18, so you’re looking at 10 days. (I’ve attended tours that extended well beyond the two-week mark.)

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<div>During the days, the casts and creative teams of these programs hold court for panels of approximately 40 minutes in length, answering whatever questions the assembled critics throw at them. There are also opportunities for one-on-one interviews with the casts and creative teams, sometimes during the day, but there are also evening events which are often less formal but still serve to provide further interview opportunities.

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<div>In addition, the members of the TCA generally visit the sets of a few shows during the course of the tour. But that was in the glorious pre-pandemic days. This is the first in-person tour since 2020, and as of this writing, it looks like there won’t be any set visits, there may not be events every evening, and the one-on-one interviews are almost certainly going to be limited because of COVID concerns. 

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<div>It's far too late to make this a long-story-short situation, and I apologize for that, but this hopefully gives you an idea of just how many interview opportunities present themselves during the course of these two to three weeks. As a full-time freelance pop culture writer based on the other side of the country, the TCA tour provides me with unparalleled access not only with the casts and creative teams of the programs I'm writing about, but it also allows me to interact with the publicity teams for the various networks as well as the personal publicists for the actors. As you might imagine, it has proven invaluable for my career. I mean, seriously, there's just nothing else quite like it.

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<div>To get a sense of what it's like, you may want to give this a read - my post-tour wrap-up piece from summer 2010  - and to answer the question that you'll probably ask after you finish reading it, yes, they're all like that. You never know what you're going to see, you never know who you're going to meet, and you always walk away from it with the sensation that your life is pretty damned cool...and if I ever lose that sensation, then it's time for me to stop going to the tour, and it's time for you to start asking me, "Jesus, when did you turn into such a jaded prick?"

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<div>Q: How will the money be used?

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<div>A: It will be used to pay for my flight to and from Los Angeles and my lodging during the tour. Believe me, this is as low as I can get the figure, since the people with whom I might’ve shared a room in the past aren’t going to be attending this time around.

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<div><strong>Q: How soon do you need the funds?</strong>

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<div>A: Sooner than I would like, frankly: as noted, the summer tour kicks off on January 9, and - as you might've guessed - I haven't even bought my plane ticket yet. If I don't end up being able to meet my goal for the winter tour in time to make it work, then the funds will remain in my GoFundMe account until I can utilize them for the summer tour, which takes place in July 2023. And if I somehow manage to go over my goal for the winter tour - because I'm just enough of a cockeyed optimist to feel like I should consider that possibility - then the excess will be held and utilized for the summer tour. Either way, this campaign only exists to help me get to the TCA tour. Period.

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<div><strong>Q: Why does this mean so much to you?</strong>

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<div>A: Because it took me a very long time to find my self-confidence and admit that I'm very good at doing interviews, and there is no greater opportunity for me to utilize my skill as an interviewer than the TCA tour.

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<div><strong>Q: How thankful will you be?</strong>

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<div>A: I'll probably cry. But I also cried when Spock died at the end of "Wrath of Khan" and when Snoopy came home at the end of "Snoopy Come Home," so maybe don't put too much stock in being able to make the tears start flowing.

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<div>Look, the truth of the matter is that I don't want to do this campaign. I don't want my friends and readers to have to pay my way to the TCA tour. What I want is for an outlet to say, "You do good work, we want more of it, and we'd like to send you out there so that you can do that good work for us." That has not happened. But whenever I go out to the tour, everyone seems to love the end results, be it the social media updates, the photos, or the many, many resulting interviews. As such, as soon as I start saying aloud or typing out the words, "I don't think I'll be able to make it to the TCA tour this time around,"  the immediate response from those aforementioned friends and readers is for them to start asking me if there's anything they can do to assist or if I've thought about doing a campaign like this, so...I mean, what the hell, right? I might as well try.

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<div>The worst that can happen is that I still don't get to go, and I was pretty well resigned to that, anyway. But if you do donate, and I do end up being able to go, I will be happier than you can imagine, and although I will fail to put into words exactly how grateful I am, I will damned sure try, you can bet on that.

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Will's TCA Tour Fund

<div><strong>English:</strong> Regardless of how we prepare ourselves for death and grief, we are never truly ready for the pain of losing a loved one. This morning, the Bronx apartment of my aunt Lorenza caught fire. Inside was my aunt, two of her daughters, Odalys and Rosanna, and my uncle Perfecto, known as Jose. My aunt Lorenza and cousin Rosanna are currently hospitalized and in critical condition. The hope is that they will be able to recuperate. With pain in my heart, I confirm that my cousin Odalys and uncle Jose did not survive this horrific fire. Odalys was autistic and truly a walking angel. My uncle Jose was a good man who stood by his family through it all. Words cannot describe how much they were loved and how much they will be missed. Unfortunately, they lost all of their belongings and their home after this devastating event. On this Thanksgiving Day, we give thanks for our lives and the opportunities we've received, but we are also overcome with sadness and tragedy. I am fundraising on behalf of my cousin Martina Suarez who is also Lorenza's daughter. Please help her lessen the financial burden that awaits. Anything you can offer will be appreciated.
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<div><strong>Español: </strong>Independientemente de cómo nos preparemos para la muerte y el duelo, nunca estamos realmente preparados para el dolor de perder a un ser querido. Esta mañana, el apartamento del Bronx de mi tía Lorenza se incendió. Dentro estaba mi tía, dos de sus hijas, Odalys y Rosanna, y mi tío Perfecto, conocido como José. Mi tía Lorenza y mi prima Rosanna están actualmente hospitalizadas y en estado critico. La esperanza es que puedan recuperarse. Con dolor en mi corazón, confirmo que mi prima Odalys y mi tío Jose no sobrevivieron este horrible incendio. Odalys era autista y verdaderamente un ángel andante. Mi tío José era un buen hombre que apoyó a su familia en todo momento. Las palabras no pueden describir cuánto fueron amados y cuánto los extrañaremos. Desafortunadamente, perdieron todas sus pertenencias y su hogar después de este evento devastador. En este Día de Acción de Gracias, damos gracias por nuestras vidas y las oportunidades que hemos recibido, pero también estamos abrumados por la tristeza y la tragedia. Estoy recaudando fondos en nombre de mi prima Martina Suárez, quien también es hija de Lorenza. Por favor, ayúdenla a disminuir la carga financiera que le espera. Todo lo que puedas ofrecer será apreciado.
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Perfecto Aramboles & Odalys Aramboles Suarez

<div>Local 600 mourns the passing of Gunnar Mortensen, a camera assistant who died on Monday, July 4, from injuries sustained from a motorcycle accident. Gunnar is survived by his wife, Keely, and his 2-year-old son, Lars. In memory of Gunnar, Local 600 has set up this GoFundMe page to help raise funds for his family at this difficult time. We encourage you to donate if you can.
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Raise Funds for the Family of Gunnar Mortensen

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<iframe media_type="0" media_id="73hdhNdln5U" class="youtube-replace" title="YouTube video player" style="margin-bottom:20px;width:560px;height:315px;" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/73hdhNdln5U/?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="1"></iframe>
<div><strong>Description: </strong>
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<div>Kwira Ba, Hola, hello! My name is Roberto Fatal and I am a Non-binary, Mestize Chicana Filmmaker from Raramuri, Tewa Pueblo, Ute and Spanish ancestry. I am the writer and director of a new short, sci-fi Latinx Indigenous drama called<em> Do Digital Curanderas Use Eggs In Their Limpias?</em> that is being produced as part of my Sundance Film Institute Indigenous Film Lab fellowship.
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<div><strong>Learn more about the story, vision, and team at our </strong><a href="https://robfatalc3de.myportfolio.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>OFFICIAL WEBSITE</strong></a>
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<div><strong>Logline:</strong>
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<div>"A California barrio is on the brink of eradication after most of the community leaves behind their bodies and the pain of carbon-based life by uploading their consciousness to the Internet. Now, one of the few remaining residents, a lonely curandera/healer who has lost their magic, must convince their last living friend, an anti-uploading activist, to support their decision to upload by signing off as their next of kin."
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<div><strong>Why this film:</strong>
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<div>Stories and films are sacred medicine that calls into existence the worlds we wish to live in, as well as preserving the cultures and communities we come from. This film is essential, powerful, and of our time. It blesses our future with a story of hope, survival, and healing. Digital Curanderas tackles themes including:
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<li>gentrification,
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<li>the singularity,
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<li>the tech industry’s impacts on low-income communities of color,
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<li>queer and trans rights,
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<li>friendship, family and ancestry
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<li>survival in the face of extermination.
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<div><strong>Funding:</strong>
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<div>Please join me and our team of queer, trans, Latinx and Indigenous filmmakers in raising $11,000 to finish off our production expenses.
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<div>The film has received financial support from the Sundance Institute Indigenous Film Program, Inside Out Toronto LGBTQ Festival/Netflix Pitch competition, and the City of Sacramento Film + Media Arts Grant. The remaining $11,000 needed to complete the film will cover the following outstanding costs:
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<li>Living wages for our local LGBTQ, Latinx, Black and Indigenous and API crew [55%]
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<li>COVID testing costs and PPE [18%]
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<li>Equipment rentals [anamorphic lenses, walkies] [23%]
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<li>Additional funding to cover GoFundMe services charges [4%]
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Sundance Indigenous Trans Sci-Fi Film fundraiser

On February 5th, Daksh Carlton Wingfield was born at Henrico Doctor’s Hospital and immediately placed in the NICU with respiratory distress. After two weeks and no diagnosis, he was transferred to VCU Medical Center, where he underwent rigorous testing. After nearly three weeks at VCU, he was diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease, an incredibly rare and potentially fatal pulmonary condition. There was no indication of this congenital defect (or any other issue) at any point throughout Keya’s pregnancy. Since he was born, Daksh has been placed on constant ventilation, including intubation and at one point life support. Unfortunately, the only definitive cure is a lung transplant. At present time he is being treated with a multitude of medications including steroids, blood pressure medication, pain medicines and sedatives.<br /><br />Since Daksh was born, we have been on a painful journey filled with horrible uncertainty and unspeakable images that no parent should ever witness. Even worse, there seems to be no end in sight anytime soon. Parenthood is supposed to be a roller coaster of emotions; not medical transport. It should be a time filled with wonderment; not wondering if your child will ever come home to be with his family. Parenthood is holding your baby in your arms; not counting the number of times you’ve done so on one hand. This has been nothing short of an absolute nightmare. <br /><br />Though he is in the best of care at VCU, they have decided that due to the rarity of his condition, he’d be better off at Children’s Hospital Of Philadelphia (CHOP), which is one of only three hospitals in the country that are equipped to deal with Interstitial Lung Disease in infants. At this time, his case is under evaluation, and plans are underway for him to be transferred as soon as his condition stabilizes. <br /><br />In September I was laid off from my job due to COVID-19. In order to maintain coverage and not be forced to change providers midway through the pregnancy, I elected to keep my existing insurance at an out-of-pocket cost of approximately $2,500 per month. The money raised here will not only help to cover the cost of insurance for the next few months, but also be used for medical expenses not covered by insurance. In addition to medical costs, living expenses will also be covered, as well as the costs of traveling back and forth to Philadelphia while our son is evaluated for a possible lung transplant. <br /><br />The decision to pursue crowdfunding has not been made lightly, and is not without the utmost humility. At this time, however, spending whatever time we can with our son far outweighs our pride. We hope you understand.

Help the Wingfield Family Care for Daksh

<a href="http://www.antonmaillie.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anton Maillie</a>  will tell anyone who’ll listen that he has lived an incredible life - several lives! He’s had an amazing career, spanning 30 years producing award-winning commercials. He even won an Emmy for his work on the CNN spot <a href="https://vimeo.com/168279617" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Why We Go</a> .<br /><br />He started and finished, 20 marathons all over the world, becoming only the 153rd man on the planet to complete a marathon on all seven continents. At the LA Marathon he met and eventually married the love of his life, Mari, and became stepdad to her sons, Gavin and Roman. <br /><br />Anton has always been first in line to help others. He started a run/walk for WeSpark cancer support center, which raised over $1.5 million. He mentored countless people in ‘the business’, and he has shown up for his friends whenever, wherever needed.  <br /><br /><strong>BUT TODAY, ANTON NEEDS OUR HELP!</strong> He’s a very proud man, who is not as good at asking for help as he is giving it. That is where WE come in. <br /><br /><strong>One year ago, after over four years of deteriorating health, Anton was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). </strong><br /><br />ALS causes motor neurons from the brain to die and abandon one’s muscles to the point of failure. The person afflicted loses their speech, the use of their arms and legs and eventually lung function. It is terminal. There is no cure. The average lifespan from diagnosis is two to five years. <br /><br />Today Anton is wheelchair-bound, has lost use of his arms and legs, and his speech is declining daily. Spiritually, emotionally and mentally he is holding his own. Anton is a fighter, but <strong>ALS is a hideous disease</strong>. <br /><br />According to the ALS Society, the average out of pocket cost of ALS is $250,000. As the disease progresses, Anton’s caregiving needs will rise exponentially. <br /><br />At present, his wife is his sole caregiver, except for a few hours per week. Mari is amazing, but <strong>there is virtually nothing Anton can do without assistance</strong>, from brushing his teeth to getting dressed to eating meals, etc. She also cares for two teenage boys, their household and three dogs. She barely sleeps and is physically and emotionally exhausted. Soon, he will need to be lifted in and out of bed, his wheelchair, etc.<strong> They need help</strong>.<br /><br />They have lost both incomes and are living off of Anton’s disability. His healthcare costs are rising, and their savings is dwindling.<strong> Insurance doesn’t cover caregivers.</strong><br /><br /><strong>Our goal is to raise $104,000</strong> to cover the cost of caregiving for one year.  <br /><br />HE HAS HELPED SO MANY OVER THE YEARS, IT’S NOW TIME TO HELP ANTON!<br /><br />HE AND HIS FAMILY URGENTLY NEED OUR SUPPORT. <strong>PLEASE CONTRIBUTE</strong>.

Let's help Anton & Mari fight ALS