Why this film now
Sara Ames is an oncology nurse practitioner in Saranac Lake, NY. Every day, she walks alongside patients and families navigating cancer — through diagnosis, treatment, uncertainty, hope, and loss.
She is also the niece of the woman whose story became the award-winning 1981 documentary Essie.
Her personal experience — combined with years of clinical practice — shaped her belief that the hardest conversations are often the most important ones.
ABOUT THE FILM
The Essie Project builds upon the award-winning 1981 documentary Essie, which
documented a young woman’s courageous journey with cancer.
The original film was:
Featured in The New York Times
Winner of the top Health & Healing Documentary award at the American Film Festival
This new film draws from:
The original documentary footage
Essie’s journals
Her artwork
New interviews and reflections
Together, these elements explore one central question:
How do we speak honestly when time is uncertain?
WHY IT MATTERS
In today’s healthcare system, we are medically advanced.
But many families still struggle to begin the conversations that matter most.
This film is not about dying. It is about living truthfully — and helping families feel less alone when facing serious illness.
WHERE WE ARE NOW
The film is currently in active editorial production. A professional documentary editor is shaping the story from the original footage and new material.
Editor cost: $8,500 per month
Current funding secured: Two months
To complete the film at a professional level, we must raise additional funds to continue post-production. Your support directly keeps the film moving forward.
AN INVITATION
Essie’s story has already touched many lives. This next chapter ensures her voice continues to help families speak sooner and love more openly.
If you feel moved to support this project, we would be deeply grateful.