Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story

Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story is a deeply moving and inspirational documentary film featuring Fred Modell and Vicki Modell, the loving parents of Jeffrey Modell. In this tear-jerking tale of heartbreak and perseverance, the documentary outlines the life and death of young Jeffrey Modell, as well as his parents' determined efforts to find a cure for his tragic illness, Primary Immunodeficiency (PI).

The film unfolds through a series of interviews, home movies, photographs, and dramatic re-enactments, meticulously presented to give a powerful insight into Jeffrey's short but inspirational life. Jeffrey, a child full of life and promise, becomes noticeably ill at an early age, causing his concerned parents to seek medical answers. The Modells discover that their son is suffering from PI, a collective term for more than 300 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body’s immune system is missing or functions improperly.

Fred and Vicki Modell, faithful in their love for their son and driven by a fervent desire to cure him, made it their life's mission to learn more about this obscure disease. The film chronicles their relentless search for treatment and a potential cure, revealing their determination, resilience, and undying parental devotion.

Infuriatingly, they encounter a myriad of challenges, which only complicate Jeffrey's case. The rarity of Jeffrey's disease means few doctors equipped to handle his condition, limited research funds, and an overall lack of public awareness about the disease. Despite these obstacles, the Modells refuse to accept defeat and continue their unfaltering search for answers.

Sadly, Jeffrey loses his fight against PI at a tender age. However, his brave battle against the disease and his parents’ tireless efforts don’t stop there. The documentary shifts focus to the aftermath of this loss – when most would be swallowed by grief, the Modells make a pivotal decision. They channel their anguish and despair into creating a lasting legacy in honor of their son.

The Modells establish the Jeffrey Modell Foundation (JMF) to raise public awareness about PI, drive research efforts, and provide a support network for families affected by PI. The foundation, funded primarily by the Modells themselves, devotes itself to combating PI and providing hope and support to thousands of families across the globe.

The story takes full advantage of its visual medium, presenting intimate memories and heart-rending scenes through a montage of photographs, personal videos, and interviews. The recounting of events is powerful and compelling without becoming maudlin. It showcases the incredible strength of two grieving parents to turn their personal tragedy into a worldwide hope.

Fred Modell, being a natural storyteller, provides an emotionally charged narration throughout the film. His and Vicki's intimate accounts of their experiences offer a raw, revealing, yet inspiring look into what it is like to navigate the complex medical world while grappling with a personal crisis.

Not just a poignant tribute to Jeffrey's memory, "Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story" also serves as a rallying cry for increased attention to and understanding of PI. It effectively thrusts its relatively unknown central issue into the limelight, urging for more research and medical funding, and calling on a stronger global response to PI.

In the end, the movie transcends its initial goal of memorializing Jeffrey and becomes a broader exploration of love, loss, and the human capacity for resilience and hope. "Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story" is a powerful, compelling, and emotionally resonant documentary that illuminates the strength and dedication of two parents-turned-advocates, turning their personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for families worldwide.

The Modells’ profound love for their son and their steadfast efforts to provide him and others with a fighting chance against PI make for a deeply moving film. "Do Something: The Jeffrey Modell Story" is a call to action, presenting a sobering reminder of the essential role of medical research in curing rare diseases and the power of individual efforts to effect change, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem.