This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Godspeed Pictures, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #wherehopegrowsmovie http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”.
“Where Hope Grows” is a new movie about love, faith, redemption and the friendship that grows between former Major League Baseball Player Calvin Campbell and a down syndrome young man called Produce. I had the fortunate opportunity to preview “Where Hope Grows “ at home this past weekend before it hits local theaters on May 15. This movie hit close to home for me because my brother-in-law Jason has down syndrome.
I have known Jason for 32 years and met him when I was 16 years old. Jason not only has down syndrome, but is also deaf. Life has thrown Jason lots of curveballs, but he has a huge passion for life and it just so happens baseball. Food and hugs are two of his top priorities in life. Some of his favorite pastimes are seeing live bands perform, watching old wrestling DVD’s (Hulk Hogan is his favorite), playing UNO and driving through car washes. Despite the many challenges Jason faces it doesn’t keep him from having a genuine joy for the little things in life. His eyes light up at the sight of a package of hot dogs or a piece of cake and a huge grin spreads across his face. His smile and laugh are contagious and they give myself and others joy just to see him get excited.
In the movie “Where Hope Grows” Calvin Campbell is an alcoholic who struggles with raising a teenage daughter and the shame of having his baseball career cut short. He meets Produce on a visit to the grocery store and the two develop a fast friendship. My husband and I laughed at many of the scenes between Calvin and Produce. Many people with down syndrome love to give hugs and are very affectionate. My husband is a huge hugger which initially took some time for me to get used to. Most of my friends know this is part of his personality and actually feel jilted if they don’t get a hug from him. We could all use more hugs as Produce shows in the shot below from the movie.
Calvin’s relationship with Produce blesses him in many ways. There are parts of the movie where you’ll laugh and parts where you’ll cry. The actor who portrays Produce is a very high functioning person with down syndrome. Jason would never be able to live on his own and needs help with some basic functions, but works at a workshop during the day with other special needs adults. Truth be told, I think he’s also capable of a lot more than he let’s on because he can be very set in his ways and is determined.
Jason has changed my life in unexpected ways just as Produce changes Calvin Campbells. I’m more comfortable around people with special needs than I used to be and I’m reminded to be grateful for the little things is life. “Where Hope Grows” shows how individuals with down syndrome are special, and they have a lot to offer and contribute to society. My husband, teenage daughter and I really enjoyed this inspirational movie and I hope you’ll look for it in a theater near you starting May 15. I give this movie 5 out of 5 popcorn bags. It’s guaranteed to make you smile!
The Movie Trailer:
Ooh, can’t wait to see it, it sounds great!
Great movies like this rarely get shown in my area.. which is a big bummer! But I keep a list of inspiration and faith based films and when they become available on DVD or streaming, I host a movie night in my basement for friends, so I’ll add this to my list:)
Keeping my fingers crossed for you that it comes to your area Seana!
It made me smile reading your post today. I could picture that enthusiasm as you spoke of Jason’s love for cake and music. Sounds like a great movie!
I look forward to seeing this movie….looks like I should bring tissues.
A great reminder to be grateful. I will look for the movie!!!