BBC Video Nation

Joanna's documentary
A few weeks before the Great North Run I was asked by Trai Anfield our new patron if I would like to take part in Video Nation, making a short film for the BBC about my experience in this years run.

Although many of you will have seen Trai presenting the weather on Look North she also now produces Video Nation for this area. For those of you who don’t know what it is, it has been set up to give individuals a chance to tell their story, looking straight into the camera lens, talking about something that’s interesting and personal to themselves. Trai then edits the short film and it is loaded onto the BBC Website.

I agreed with Trai that this was an opportunity I didn’t want to miss. As a result of the film and the level of coverage on the BBC website this was an opportunity for all individuals to see and recognise the challenges and frustrations of living with ME everyday.
I was provided with a camera before, during and after the 'wheelchair push'. I gave an honest and personal account of my experience taking part in such a massive sporting event. Although it was difficult at times balancing the camera whilst being pushed in the wheelchair I am delighted with the final edition. I do apologise now for my face being particularly close to the camera lens! Trai also did her own filming on the day for extra shots and put an enormous amount of time and effort into it.

You can now view my short film by visiting www.bbc.co.uk/tyne/videonation
Thanks to Trai and this short film we have yet again hopefully improved
awareness of the chronic illness ME.
Joanna