A short film telling the story of different fathers with a child who has congenital heart disease, produced by Cassius Rayner for charity ECHO, is up for an award at the 2019 Charity Film Awards.

ECHO’s emotionally charged, short film, ‘Walking In Our Shoes’, hears directly from a group of dads individually as they reflect on their child’s diagnosis and treatment, and the impact this had on them and their family.

Poignant and intimate

‘Walking In Our Shoes’ is a poignant film giving an intimate look into the dads’ experiences and the reality that many fathers feel the need to cope alone and be strong for the rest of their family, through what for most is the hardest experience of their life.

The fathers open up about how hard it can be to support your family at a time of crisis – being told your child has been diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening heart condition – and also offer advice and reassurance to fathers who may be experiencing a similar situation.

South London filming

The film was shot in different locations across South London and the surrounding area, including Evelina London Children’s Hospital where many of these fathers have watched their children experience heart surgery, and many spend weeks or even months while their child is being treated.

Samantha Johnson, ECHO’s Chief Executive said: “I am extremely thankful to all of the dads involved in the making of ECHO’s short film for opening up about their experiences in what is a very emotive film.

“I hope their stories inspire other dads to reach out for support, and feel connected with the ECHO heart community.

“We are delighted to have an opportunity for the film to be recognised at the Charity Film Awards, and I would like to thank everyone who has been voting so far.”

ECHO is passionate about ensuring that all parents and carers whose child has been diagnosed with congenital heart disease feel supported, and we do so by offering practical and emotional support within the Evelina London Children’s Hospital and local network hospitals, supporting hundreds of families from across the UK.

The Charity Film Awards have been created to celebrate the success of film in engaging supporters, driving positive conversations and encouraging donations for good causes.