CÚRAM, the Science Foundation Ireland Centre for Research in Medical Devices based at NUI Galway and Galway Film Centre select ‘A Tiny Spark’ as the recipient of the 2018 Science on Screen commission.
The documentary, which will be directed by Niamh Heery and produced by Caroline Kealy of Swansong Films, will examine the effect of stroke on people’s lives, specifically looking into research on clots.
‘A Tiny Spark’ will focus on research, being led by Dr Karen Doyle, which involves analysis of removed blood clots to see what information they may yield. This is the first study of its kind in the world and is an international collaborative study between NUI Galway, hospital partners in Beaumont Hospital and throughout Europe and the Mayo Clinic, USA.
Contributors to the documentary will include individuals who have had a stroke, as well as the scientists and medics who work in the stroke area in Galway and Dublin. Filming will take place in Dublin, Limerick and Galway in July 2018.
Eric Dolan will animate the brain highlighting the functions that the various parts serve such as the ‘amygdala’ which is the emotional part of the brain and is responsible for affection. They will also use this method to highlight the journey of clots and their potential for destruction.
Professor Abhay Pandit, Scientific Director of CÚRAM said:
“This year’s film will focus on stroke and clot research which is yet another area of research which will have a significant impact on audiences all over the country. These stories, narrated through our Science on Screen documentaries, show the real challenges that people face when living with chronic illness but also how we are trying to address them here at CÚRAM, to improve quality of life for all.”
Galway Film Centre Manager, Alan Duggan noted:
“The Science on Screen commission scheme shows the real human side of the application of science. We are delighted to continue working with CÚRAM on this scheme and we will be supporting Niamh, Caroline and the filmmaking team in bringing ‘A Tiny Spark’ to the screen this year.”
“A Tiny Spark’ will premiere in Galway in November 2018 as part of the Galway Science and Technology Festival during Ireland Science Week.
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