65 Redroses

65 Redroses is a heartfelt, touching, and deeply emotional Canadian documentary film that revolves around the life of Eva Markvoort, a vivacious young woman living with a severe genetic ailment known as cystic fibrosis. The film presents a heart-wrenching but hopeful chronicle of Eva's daily struggles, her aspirations to be normal, and her unyielding quest for life beyond her ailment. Graciously endowed with an unwavering spirit, Eva becomes an emblem of strength, exhibiting a hopeful resilience which is inspiring and moving.

The title "65 Redroses" arises as a term of endearment and code from an online community of friends, as children with cystic fibrosis phonetically speak their disease as "65 roses". Red, being Eva's favorite color, influenced her blog name selection, using it as a platform to showcase her arduous journey battling cystic fibrosis and awaiting a double lung transplant.

Directed by Philip Lyall and Nimisha Mukerji, the film first aired on CBC Television in 2009 in Canada but has since reached a global audience due to its profound storyline and raw, engrossing narration. Issued a grim prognosis by her doctors, Eva, with her piquant spirit, unending resilience, becomes a beacon of hope and determination in the mundane world.

The film captures Eva's unwavering optimism and vitality as she races against time to secure a double-lung transplant. It also investigates the meaning of life, chronic illness, humanity and love through Eva's eyes, unmasking her dreams, fears, and relationships with family and friends. Notably, it brings to the forefront her bond with two American women living with the same condition, as they cope together, forming an unshakeable bond of friendship, understanding, and mutual support.

65 Redroses details the power of technology where Eva uses social media in a unique way, connecting her with others suffering the same ailment, ultimately establishing a supportive online community. In an age where technology often serves to disconnect rather than connect, this lens into Eva's life reveals how it can be utilized as a lifeline, a connection fostering immense empathy, understanding, and depth in human relationships.

The documentary skillfully manages to show the immense physical toll of the disease on Eva's body without overshadowing her lively spirit and unyielding determination to lead a full life. The film doesn't shy away from the grim reality of cystic fibrosis, offering a look into the hard, often painful, day-to-day life of a patient with chronic illness. Nevertheless, Eva's positive attitude and kinetic personality take the centre stage, outshining the story of her physical battles.

Eva Markvoort's presence on screen is powerful, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into her world – her infectious laughter, her moments of despair, and her fierce determination. She is recognized to be an advocate for organ donation, using her platform to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis and organ transplants.

Lyall and Mukerji's poignant direction make 65 Redroses a rare gem, accurately capturing the raw emotions, trials, tribulations, and the essence of a resilient woman who refused to allow her condition to define her. From beautiful visuals of Eva's life to the melodic musical score, every aspect of the film adds depth to Eva's narrative, drawing viewers in and allowing them to experience Eva's journey firsthand.

In essence, 65 Redroses serves as a mirror to the plight of thousands battling cystic fibrosis daily, and resounds with the broader human struggle of coping with debilitating conditions and the relentless fight to overcome. It serves as a lesson in celebrating life, resilience, and the power of human connection in adversity.

A testament to the human spirit's strength and resilience, 65 Redroses is a film that provides an incredible insight into the reality of living with a terminal illness, and a reminder of the preciousness of life.