CADDAC in the Community

CADDAC was thrilled to be the community sponsor of Doc Institute’s screening, “A Mind Like Mine - An Intimate Portrait of Life with Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”. A film by Karen O’Donnell.

This free documentary screening and public discussion series is focused on community engagement and activism. These screenings of local docs link Torontonians to important social issues of our time. 

 This compelling documentary chronicles a year in the life of two adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This deeply personal film features the filmmaker's son, Kail and another young man Daniel.

 Seven years after documenting their lives as children with ADD/ADHD for her film, O'Donnell turns the lens back to document their growth into young adults. Along the way however, the filmmaker is taken by surprise as she begins to suspect that she too may be living with ADD!

After the screening audience members were invited to participate in a one hour Q & A session with leading ADHD figures from a variety of fields. ADHD personality, Zoe Kessler, acted as moderator making for an always entertaining evening.

Audience members enjoyed sharing questions about the film and ADHD issues to such a distinguished group. Topics ranged from:

• Where to get an ADHD diagnosis
• Transitions in schooling
• ADHD in the workplace.
• Natural/Alternative treatments
• Assistive Technologies
• Comorbid Conditions

One woman at the event became emotional describing her challenges receiving an ADHD diagnosis. Her doctor was dismissive, leaving her quietly suffering. This raw moment demonstrated the importance of community events. Everyone should have a right to understand ADHD without the stigma.

CADDAC applauds all those involved in a fantastic evening and providing valuable information to the public. We hope to see more in the future.

If you missed the screening, you can still catch the documentary by following the link below:

http://tvo.org/video/168406/mind-mine

Event Review by Hilary Shea