April 28, 2021 – Of the many challenges associated with Alzheimer’s disease, one that is often overlooked is the loneliness that can affect not only the person living with the disease but also their caregivers. But with her new short film “Daydream (EnsuenÍo),” screenwriter Janet Diaz-Bonilla hopes to shed some light on the emotional impacts of the disease while raising funds for a cure.
“I wrote this screenplay inspired by my parents and it’s an ode to them,” Diaz-Bonilla explained. “My mom, who is 81, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease 10 years ago. Since that day, my father, now 72, has been her primary caretaker. They live in a small cottage behind our pool, and my father does absolutely everything for her. From brushing her teeth in the mornings to tucking her into bed at night and everything in-between, he does it all.”
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Free screenings of “Daydream (EnsuenÍo)” will be held May 6 to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association. The film, which is in Spanish but has English subtitles, was co-directed by Diaz-Bonilla and Priscilla Rojas, produced by Priscilla Rojas and Linda Rojas, and executive produced by Mariel Drifter Productions. The story centers on the relationship between Clara and Manuel, who have shared a deep heartbreak. But although the couple’s pain is shared, their perspectives of it are quite different, as Clara is experiencing hers through the lens of Alzheimer’s disease. As Clara’s husband and primary caregiver, Manuel struggles to relate to her version of reality as they each experience what it means to be alone, together.
“What I have learned from my mother’s illness and through the process of researching and writing this short script is how devastating the obscurity and loneliness that encompasses Alzheimer’s disease is,” Diaz-Bonilla said. “It’s been challenging and painful for my father to witness the love of his life go deeper inside herself, leaving him further behind. For him, the process of caring for her has brought upon cardiovascular and musculoskeletal issues due to the physical and emotional strain he feels.”
Proceeds of the screenings will benefit The Longest Day, an annual Alzheimer’s Association fundraising campaign that encourages participants to combat the darkness of Alzheimer’s disease on the summer solstice – the day with the most light. Participants can fundraise through the activity of their choice, and fundraising efforts continue throughout the calendar year.
Emma Nestler, The Longest Day manager for the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter, noted: “The strain of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease can take a toll on a caregiver’s physical and emotional health. As many as 40 percent of family caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or another dementia reportedly suffer from depression. That’s why it is vital that those caring for loved ones with dementia also take the time to care for themselves.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and more than 11 million family members are providing them with care. In Florida alone, there are more than 580,000 people battling the disease and 527,000 family caregivers.
“As the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia continues to grow, it’s important that we continue to shine a light on this disease and the ways it is affecting our neighbors, family members and friends,” Nestler added.
The “Daydream (EnsuenÍo)” film screenings will begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 6, at CMX Brickell City Centre. Attendees will be required to wear masks, and showings will be limited to 40 people per screening in accordance with public health guidelines. While the event is free to attend, donation boxes will be available on-site, as well as a QR code for online donations. To RSVP, contact ervices@alphaentertainmentweb.com, and for more information about the screening, visit @thedaydreamshortfilm on Instagram.
For more information about The Longest Day, visit www.alz.org/TheLongestDay.
