Narrative and Story Telling Open Society Georgia Foundation launched the project – “My Story”. People with a variety of problems tell their stories through short films. Rights of these people and those with similar problems are often violated and they are victims of stigma and ill-treatment. These films aim to raise public awareness and to change their attitude towards people with mental or physical disabilities, or people with serious medical diagnosis, as well as to reduce stigma towards these people and improve the quality of their lives. A deeper and wider understanding of the problem is possible through the narrated stories, mood of the respondents and narrative style. Despite the gravity of these stories, films elicit positive feelings and encourage people with the same problems. Currently, tree films have been shot thus far.
Sandro – a young man with autism. Sandro is interested in painting, photography and he is an intern at Ilia State University.Sandro is a positive example of how people with same problems can integrate in society.
Nino – a young girl, diagnosed with lymphoma and leukemia. She moved to Tskhvarichamia, walked away from the society, from stressful environment. Nino lives quite an active and happy life. She is employed in one of the business companies. She believes that emotional state is of great importance and that everyone can find the strength and continue to live happily even in case they are diagnosed with severe diseases. The film also focuses on the relationship between patient and doctor, as well as on the right attitude of doctor towards the patient.
Mariam was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Over the years she has been successfully involved in academic activities. After her health condition has been deteriorated she left her job. She became an object of ridicule. She tells about the difficulties of her life and attitude of the society towards her. She hopes that one day society will become more humane towards people “like her”.
