Film and television producers Brad and Deb Carr have been working to support families of children with ataxia telangiectasia, a terminal genetic disease, since 1998. When they learned that ultrarunner Tim Borland planned to run 63 marathons in 63 consecutive days as part of the A-T CureTour, as Deb says, “We knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to share the greater story of A-T.” Their documentary FEAT chronicles Borland’s accomplishment and profiles families living with A-T.

What response has the film generated? What would you say has been the impact of the film for the A-T community?

The response has been overwhelmingly supportive and thankful. Any film dealing with terminally ill children can be incredibly difficult to watch. Our goal was to educate audiences about the realities of what A-T families face but also showcase their inspiring example of hope and determination. Tim’s journey running 63 consecutive marathons offered so many parallels to the challenges these families face every day.

As far as the impact for the A-T community, Tim’s endeavor rejuvenated everyone’s spirits to keep on fighting. With roughly 500 children in the U.S. diagnosed, families often feel alone. The 2007 A-T CureTour connected them in such a powerful way.

There was an incredibly sweet moment in the film when one of the kids says, “Someone else besides our families is actually doing something about this.” Did working on the film show you anything particular about how community comes together?

I think its human nature to feel a connection to those who experience similar struggles. Because A-T is so rare, the bond between A-T families is very strong.

I actually consider Jamie’s quote to be a call to action. These families have enough on their plates. Once you watch “FEAT” you no longer have the excuse, “I didn’t know.” So, I challenge you, as Jamie says, to do something about it.

Do you have any words of advice for readers looking for concrete actions to take toward a cause that means a lot to them?

Identify the specific need and action you want to take. Write it down, put it somewhere you will see it every day. Find others who share your passion and collaborate. Research. Research. Research. Develop a plan that includes short-term and long-term goals. Listen to your gut.

  Feat: 63 Marathons in 63 Days
A-T, brad and deb carr, documentaries, feat, ultrarunning

About the Author:

Jessica Inman

Jessica Inman writes and edits in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She loves books, food, dogs and, for lack of a better way to say it, anyone's efforts anywhere to do good in the world. She welcomes the opportunity to write or read about any of these things.

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