DocNights: STUMPED
ROBIN BERGHAUS | USA | 2017 | 72 MIN | NR
Will Lautzenheiser was chasing the loves of his life. A year into a promising relationship, he landed a dream job teaching film at Montana State University. After his first two classes, Will visited the hospital for what he assumed was a painful muscle pull. He had no idea that pain was being caused by a life-threatening bacterial infection. When Will’s organs started shutting down, and his limbs began dying, doctors amputated his arms and legs to save his life.
Will’s world, as he knew it, would never be the same.
Within this medical drama is a deeply personal story in which Will, with the support of his partner Angel, his family and a world-class medical team, redefines his identity and forges a new path. Filmed over four years, Stumped explores themes of resilience, committed caregiving, and the life-changing potential of pioneering medicine.
Following the screening, subject Will Lautzenheiser will join us, via Skype, for a Q&A and discussion.
About the Speaker:
Will Lautzenheiser was a filmmaker and teacher of film production and screenwriting when, in the fall of 2011, an invasive infection caused him to become a quad amputee. Following rehab, he turned to performing “sit-down” and sketch comedy as a creative and therapeutic outlet. In 2014, he underwent arm transplantation surgery at Brigham & Women’s Hospital. He speaks frequently about organ donation, patient experiences, and disability issues, and is at work on his own film and writing projects.
The post-screening discussion will be led by Karla A. Bell, PT, DPT, Assistant Professor, and Susan F. Wainwright, PT, PhD, Professor and Chair, Department of Physical Therapy, Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Science, Thomas Jefferson University
STUMPED (Official Trailer) from GOOD DOCS on Vimeo.
DocNights with Thomas Jefferson University
Presented with Thomas Jefferson University, DocNights showcases celebrated contemporary documentaries exploring vital issues that affect our world, followed by enriching post-screening Q&As featuring the documentary subjects, filmmakers, and university conversation partners.
During 2019-2020, DocNights with Thomas Jefferson University will feature four compelling films about diverse issues that members of the LGBTQ+ community experience every day. Whether it is an internal journey of self-discovery and recovery, coming out to loved ones, or facing challenges in the workplace, this collection hopes to inform while encouraging compassion and enriching conversations. The series is co-presented with William Way LGBT Community Center.
In an effort to bring these important and enlightening stories to members of the Philadelphia community, DocNights with Thomas Jefferson University is FREE to attend.