Two women on the opposite side of diagnosis, documentary film TRUE VISION is an exploration of how people deal with unexpected obstacles in their lives, and the perceptions that go hand in hand with diagnosis and disability.

WATCH TRAILER

This event will include a screening of TRUE VISION (released on ABC and finalist in the Australian Teachers of Media Awards) and a discussion with filmmaker and mother Diana Fisk, along with disability advocate Stephanie Dower. This is a free event and will include a light lunch, with an opportunity to connect with other individuals, organisations and families.

Stephanie Dower is a screen producer, writer, and editor having worked across short films, TVCs and online content, and has a strong passion for reframing how people with disabilities are portrayed in popular media. Stephanie is currently developing a slate of engaging and progressive projects through her production company, Dower Productions with notable projects including factual series Carry On, which was selected for the Pitch FACTory at AIDC 2019 and coming-of-age feature film Seeing Scout, recent recipient of the Attagirl production prize. Stephanie is also a co-host of Attitude Foundation’s ReFramed Podcast and is known to speak regularly on matters of accessibility and inclusion, having recently been appointed to Screen Queensland’s newly formed Equity and Diversity Taskforce.

ABOUT THE FILM

In 2014, Alfie Fisk was born to adoring parents Diana and Robert. But at four months of age everything changed when Alfie was diagnosed with Nystagmus – a vision condition caused by an abnormal function in the brain.

As Alfie’s mother Diana researched the condition, words like 'abused' 'bullied' and 'embarrassed' appeared as descriptors of the life children with Nystagmus experience growing up. Determined to provide a better future for Alfie, Diana needed to find someone who understood the challenges she and her family were about to face.

It was then Diana found Paralympian Jess Gallagher, and the inspiration she was looking for.

Despite being diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease, Jess has represented Australia in three different sports and is the first Australian athlete to medal at both the Winter and Summer Games. Declared legally blind, Jess is also an ambassador of numerous non-for-profit organisations, and a highly sought-after motivation speaker.

True Vision weaves the story of Jess Gallagher’s incredible achievements alongside the determination of Diana Fisk as she navigates daily life with Alfie (now 4). Through these two women on opposite sides of a diagnosis coming together, and the subsequent friendship that developed, we see the real potential and opportunity of a life otherwise labelled as difficult.

True Vision is an exploration of how people deal with the obstacles in their lives, and the perceptions that go hand in hand with diagnosis and disability.

Vision Australia’s CEO Ron Hooton “Vision Australia’s mission is to support people who are blind or have low vision to live the life they choose and True Vision perfectly illustrates what this means. I can think of no better way to show people that blindness or low vision is no barrier to people leading a full and active life and chasing their dreams. We’re thrilled by the idea of True Vision reaching new audiences across Australia and I know they will be moved by the amazing stories of Diana, Alfie and Jess.

A TOUR OF TRUE VISION is in partnership with Vision Australia and supported by the Percy and Ruby Haddy Foundation as managed by Equity Trustees. For further information please visit: dianafisk.com/true-vision