SALT IN MY SOUL: An Unfinished Life: Review

Director: Will Battersby
Run time: 1 hour 36 Minutes
Genre: Feature Documentary
Country: USA

The Power in Telling Your Own Story and Finding the Balance of Living in the Moment and Preparing for a Future

Will Battersby brings Mallory Smith's challenges and triumphs to the screen in 'SALT IN MY SOUL: An Unfinished Life', a documentary based on her book with the same name.

Faced with her own possible death because of cystic fibrosis, Mallory captures her thoughts, feelings and emotions in writing, audio and video recordings that are woven together to tell her remarkable and inspiring story with the love and support of her mother Diane, her father Mark, her friends and doctors. A remarkable support system.

One of the things that really stands out for me is, Mallory's ability to take a difficult and brutally honest conversation, for anyone of any age, that she had with her father at the age of 9 years old and used it to find her voice and to use her own word start documenting her thoughts and feelings.

She had the challenge of trying to live life to the fullest while at the same time, fighting for her life. Helping to achieve that balance are her parents Diane and Mark. Diane, a determined, outgoing, people person, who oversees appoints and direct interactions with the public including fundraising for Mallory's Garden. You cannot be shy and raise funds at the same time.

And there is her father Mark, who is in charge of all research. He is dedicated to researching all things cystic fibrosis and committed to staying on top of the latest treatments and developments with cystic fibrosis. An important component that he can accomplish mostly on his own, without the constant and direct face-to-face interactions.

It appears Mallory had the best of both her parents and together are instrumental in helping her to achieve the balance she sought in her life. Being happy with what you have and at the same time, thriving for more, working toward dreams and goals.

Having actual video footage of Mallory's hospitalizations and treatment and having narrate her story, brings you in, in an impactful and meaningful way. The opportunity for Will Battersby to use her actual days and weeks spent in the hospital is powerful, sharing her struggles. The footage of the challenges she faces, especially during her hospitalizations, really adds to the movie experience.

Learning early of the importance of being good stewards of our bodies and the earth and out environment. And how they are
both connected. As seen in the benefits of the Hawaiian salt water. As well as the great benefit of that sports played in helping to extend her life.

I must say, Mallory was very fortunate to have her mom Diane, her dad Mark and brother Micah by her side and the same can be said for them.

SALT IN MY SOUL is a good film that is sure to enlighten and inspire its viewers. A valuable lesson in finding your voice, passion and purpose in life.