LETTER TO THE AUDIENCE
I always write a letter to the audience while working on my films. This letter changes as the film comes to completion and then I write a final letter to the audience. I wrote this letter to the audience for Forever Faithful. I wanted to share my reasons for making the film and my hopes that it will help others make informed decisions for their pet companion's health. Below is the letter.
LETTER TO THE AUDIENCE
A few things you should know before watching this film.The Rottweiler and other large breed dogs like the Great Dane, German Shepherd, Doberman Pincher, Irish Setter, Bernese Mountain Dog, Mastiff, and Golden Retriever are prone to a type of bone cancer called Osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma can affect any breed, but it’s most common in large breeds. While making this film, I learned so much about canine cancer and the advanced treatments available. It was information I wish I would have known a few years ago when my dog was diagnosed with bone cancer. Looking back, I wonder if I could have prevented my dog from getting bone cancer. I wonder if I made the right choices about his treatments. I wish I could have caught the tumor earlier. The reason I made this film was to share the information I learned to help dog owners make more informed decisions than the ones I made. I also wanted to tell the stories of the beautiful dogs that are featured in the film. Some have cancer, some overcame cancer, some have disabilities that have nothing to do with cancer, and some are just doing amazing things for the world and bringing happiness to everyone who meets them. Making this film was cathartic for me in many ways. I know how important dogs are to the people who have them. One of my favorite quotes in the film is by a lifelong Rottweiler owner who says “If you’ve ever had a friend who was always there, who didn’t judge you, who wanted to be with you and do things with you and was always happy to be around you, that’s how I would describe these dogs to people who don’t own dogs”. I couldn’t agree more. I hope you enjoy the film. I promise it is not all sad! There is a very positive message in the end. If you are a dog owner, I made this film for you. Love and light, Angie