Santa Barbara Is Invited to Be Part of the Making of the ‘One Name’ Documentary

This Friday, June 16, the public is invited to take part in an informal meeting regarding the launching of a documentary with a satirical angle about rebranding ME, Long Covid, and other diseases. (www.movieaboutme.com) The effort is being spearheaded by Chesley Heymsfield, a Santa Barbara film producer who is living with ME.

“I first noticed symptoms when I was 18 years old,” said Heymsfield. “I went from doctor to doctor for ten years searching for a diagnosis. I’ve spent much of my life’s energy trying to convince others what I have is real. This disbelief can be life threatening. Our team wants to make a film that will change these harmful misperceptions. We’d love you to be involved with us.”

The event will take place at La Lieff Wines in Santa Barbara, and will feature short talks by some of the top autoimmune experts in the country, including Dr. Joseph Smith and Oved Amitay, President and CEO of Solve M.E. 

“It’s a serious topic, but I think we’re going to have an inspiring evening,” said Dr. Smith, a chiropractic neurologist from Marin County. “I believe health care needs to go beyond simple diagnosis and dispensing of pills. The future should include a clear focus on improved quality of life for every patient. Doctors should be given the freedom to design a health care plan tailored to each patient. We have a lot to talk about.”

Amitay is a powerful patient advocate and is firmly behind the move to rename some of the confusing names given to autoimmune diseases. “Rebranding these diseases so people and doctors can understand them better will be helpful and provide hope,” he said. “It’s going to be a terrific discussion.”

Heymsfield has been involved with films worldwide. “We’re inviting everyone to help us find the best unifying umbrella name for this group of diseases, a true public branding exercise,” said Chesley. 

“Friday evening’s event,” she added, “will provide a wonderful opportunity for people in Santa Barbara to not only listen to a great conversation about the intersection of medicine, science, advocacy, and the future – but to become an important part of it.”

The ‘One Name’ Campaign
Friday, June 16
Open to the public
La Lieff Wines
210 Gray Avenue
5:30 – 7:30 pm