Independent Lens: Matter Of Mind (DVD)

Across three episodes, Matter of Mind explores the growing epidemic of neurodegenerative disease through the lens of three different illnesses - ALS, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. These illnesses are devastating for patients and their families and caregivers. Yet, in the face of such loss, many individuals and families also find rare depths of fortitude, optimism, and even gratitude. In Matter of Mind: My ALS, a renowned African-American architect, a heavy duty mechanic, and a 32-year-old communications director confront complex choices and finddiverging paths while living with ALS. Matter of Mind: My Parkinson's follows a political cartoonist, a mother turned boxing coach, and an optician as they navigate their lives with resourcefulness and determination while grappling with Parkinson's disease. Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer's explores how three families - a couple, a father and son, and a mother and daughter - confront the challenges of Alzheimer's, focusing on how the disease transforms identities and relationships.