Filming
We have videotaped seven weekends so far. Typically by the end of the weekend more than 80% of the participants have agreed to being filmed. Some people find it therapeutic to share their story on film.
Click here for an example consent form.
The following is an email/letter that can be sent by the videographer to participants. (Rob and Tim do not ask attendees directly to be filmed, nor would we expect the local organizer to ask attendees):
My name is Boyd Sharpe. I am a Halifax-based documentary film maker working with Drs. Rob Rutledge and Tim Walker. For the past year we have been working together to document the Skills For Healing Weekend Retreats offered to people affected by a cancer diagnosis. To this point, we have recorded each of the presentations and exercises (meditation, body scan, yoga and qigong) presented during the retreat. We have also had the opportunity to spend time with some ordinary / extraordinary cancer survivors who shared with us their fears, concerns, hopes and dreams. Through their generosity and openness we have been able to capture the vulnerability and distress, as well as the strength and serenity of several individuals as they navigate the cancer journey. This footage will be compiled into a DVD and act as an invaluable resource for those newly diagnosed with cancer. (If you would like to speak with someone who participated at our last retreats in Ottawa, Kitchener or Oakville, I would be more than happy to provide you with several participants’ contact information.)
Arguably the most important elements of the Skills For Healing Weekend Retreat are the small group exercises, opening-circle, and closing circle. It is during these exercises that many individuals discover the inner strength that sustains them along the cancer journey. In order to adequately convey the Skills For Healing Weekend Retreat experience, it is vital for us to include some of these discussions from a weekend retreat.
I would be honored if you would be willing to share your story with me from November 23-25.
What would be involved?
You could choose to volunteer for any or all or NONE of the following
1) A filmed interview / discussion to take place in whatever location makes you feel most at ease. This interview could take place at your home, at a park, your place of worship or any other location where you feel comfortable and at peace. We could film you on Friday during the day or Saturday after the retreat.
2) Very short 1-2 minute film interviews on Friday evening, Saturday morning and/ or afternoon and/or Sunday morning/afternoon.
3) Small group discussions throughout the weekend as well as part of the opening or closing exercise.
Other things you should know.
1) We will edit the film footage to develop a life-affirming video, depicting those involved in the most sympathetic and respectful light – and definitely exclude material according to participant wishes.
2) Although we will ask you to sign a consent form to film you, you are under no pressure to continue if at any point you feel uncomfortable with the process. Those not volunteering with me will not be filmed at any time.
Please consider sharing your story and helping others better cope with a cancer diagnosis.
For more information, please email Boyd Sharpe at boydsharpe@yahoo.com
Regards,
Boyd Sharpe
