Monica and David

About the Project

Monica and David explores the marriage of two adults with Down syndrome and the family who strives to support their needs. Monica and David embody child-like spirits with adult desires; they are aware of their need for assistance, but also capable beyond traditional expectations. Behind the couple's blissful love are two mothers who struggled against an intolerant world, and with this wedding, realize a dream.

This story opens audiences up to a very new perspective on the emotional depth of a person with Down syndrome. First there is the authentic and deep love Monica and David share. The kind of love we all dream of. Then there is the ability to accept and explore loss. Monica writes an honest and painful letter to her biological father, who has been absent from her life for many years. And David reveals his ability to take on adult responsibility for his own diabetes, when he learns to self-medicate four times a day. But this story also reveals the unfair burden placed on progressive parents, who because of lack of state and federal resources, have to address every issue on their own. The challenge for families deepens when an individual with Down syndrome transitions to adulthood, and even fewer resources are available.

Although there are 156 million intellectually disabled people in the world, basic resources that inform adult needs are scarce. Until recently, people with Downs lived short isolated lives. In 1900, the life expectancy was 9 years old. Twenty years ago they lived into their 20s. Today the median life span is 56, with many adults with Down living into their 60's and 70's. Marriage for adults with Down syndrome continues to be very unusual. That all said, Monica and David have an amazingly supportive and committed marriage, and face the daily challenges of their disability with patience, laughter and a highly developed sense of humor. Over the course of the film their relationship becomes a model of respect and how to live in the present. Audiences are left to wonder why something so necessary --love and companionship-- is so unique for people with intellectual disabilities. What audiences witness in the film can be translated into policy, programs and community dialogue.

The Fledgling Fund Impact

The Fledgling Fund is pleased to provide post-production, outreach and audience engagement support for Monica and David. We believe this film is a unique look at a side of disability we so rarely consider. The film raises questions about love, independence, housing options, family support and social services. Together with some of the other films we have supported in this category, we hope to take a comprehensive look at options for those living with disabilities.