NORM: A Documentary about Love, Family, and Survival![]() Norm was born with Down Syndrome in 1949, in an era that assumed children like him would be sent away to institutions and that their life expectancy may not exceed 15 years. Though Norman spent much of his childhood with his family, he was ultimately put into foster-care by his parents. Karen, Norm's sister who had been adopted, spent most of her life feeling that she had usurped Norm's place in the family. The day he left, she vowed they'd never be separated again. Sixteen years ago she did get her brother back. Today Norman lives with Karen and her partner. He is loved and is well known in his community and has many friends of all ages. But, even though Norm is supported by some remarkable caregivers, including an inspired and inspiring physician, he now faces another difficult battle. Like many aging adults living with Down syndrome, he is experiencing the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Once again Norm's sister Karen is faced with one of life's most difficult questions, a decision her adopted parents had to deal with many years ago, "What if I can't keep him at home anymore?" Filmed with extraordinary access over a four-year period, NORM offers a powerful reminder of the depth of sibling love and the challenges faced by many families living with the often harsh realities of aging. Produced and directed by award winning filmmaking team, Kent Nason and Teresa MacInnes, who have been the creative talent behind numerous documentaries. *Postscript: Norm died peacefully at his home on September 22, 2010, surrounded by family and friends. Norm continued to live with Karen and Claudy right up until his passing. *PERSONAL, HOME USE ONLY price $39.95 | ||||||||
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