Emma's Gifts
45 minutes / documentary / 2003 / USA

Emma was born with Down Syndrome, which makes her different from her twin sister, Abigale. Expectations for Emma are automatically lowered. Yet, in telling Emma's story through the eyes of her parents, the film challenges our perception of difference. Ultimately we are encouraged to embrace difference and never to underestimate the gifts that every individual has to offer.

John Disher - director
John spent a large part of his career working in the camera department in feature and commercial film production. His passion for documentary film led him to study at the International Film and Video Workshops in Rockport, Maine. He also has served on the board of several organizations focused on helping those with special needs including: The Brain Injury Association of North Carolina, Residential Support Services and The ARC of Mecklenburg County. John has been able to combine his passion for philanthropy and production by producing and directing video and film projects for such non-profit organizations as Hospice, United Family Services, The ARC, United Way, Residential Support Services and the Children's Miracle Network. Currently he is residing in Charlotte, North Carolina where he continues his career as an award winning producer and director, while directing a new documentary on The Merry Pranksters, a theatrical group in South Carolina made up of adults with mental disabilities.