I Am Breathing

17^th June 2013

Conor Nyhan

Conor Nyhan

17 June 2013

“It’s amazing how adaptable we are when we have to be. It’s what separates us and defines us as human beings.” These are the words of 33-year-old Neil Platt, diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, a rapidly aggressive and fatal condition described as “the last incurable disease of the modern day.”  I Am Breathing documents Neil’s mission to leave behind a series of letters for his baby son before losing his ability to speak. He is faced with the difficulty of guessing what his son will want to know about him in the future, and trying to explain his life to him.

I Am Breathing is a difficult watch, but an entirely necessary one. Watching a once healthy young man fall prey to a horrible illness is, of course, difficult, but Neil is a witty, humorous and insightful person who even jokes about his own funeral arrangements. Interspersed with home footage of his life before, updates from his blog posts and spoken word entries the audience get a clear picture of this remarkable figure. 

It’s a detailed and thorough examination of the life and last days of one incredibly strong man. To call this documentary moving would not do it justice: it is heart-rending and will leave the viewer thinking about their own life, as well as the importance of family and friends. It also raises awareness for Motor Neurone Disease, which can only be a good thing. It is the best documentary of the year so far, and will undoubtedly remain so. I Am Breathing is a truly remarkable piece. Outstanding. 

Conor Nyhan

I Am Breathing is released on 21^st June 2013 to raise money and awareness on MND Global Awareness Day. For further information about I Am Breathing click here, and for further information about MND Global Awareness Day click here.

Watch the trailer for I Am Breathing here: