A Special Screening: The Last Stamp
I always look forward to my yearly Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA) Conference. This year was no exception. The sessions and speakers were excellent, and I enjoyed meeting fellow nurses who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. DDNA regularly asks attendees what they would like to see for the following year’s conference. My answer is usually self-advocates sharing insight regarding their lives, jobs, accomplishments, and concerns when navigating medical needs.
So, I was very excited, when after a long day at the conference, we had an incredibly special experience. Koji Okamoto, a gentleman with Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s, joined us for a screening of the documentary he stars in, The Last Stamp. He was accompanied by Dr. Buckley, Director of The Roland Center where Koji attends, and filmmaker, Antony Talia.
During his time at the center, Koji would often talk about his travels around the world. At first, staff believed these stories were a result of confusion related to Alzheimer’s. However, everything changed when they discovered his passport—filled with stamps from twenty-eight different countries! Oh my-can you imagine those adventures and the staff’s surprise when they realized he had actually been to all of those places?!
Koji’s final wish was to visit his sister in Hong Kong. With the support of Dr. Buckley and his team, the wish became a reality. Together, they helped him embark on one last journey—one that reconnected him with his family, his past, and his identity.
Watching this story unfold was incredibly powerful. It served as a reminder that every person we support has a history, a story, and meaningful connections that deserve to be honored—no matter their diagnosis or stage of life.
It can be challenging if we don’t know a person’s true history. At times we may be so focused on the condition or the disease, that we are not taking the time to really see the person. The Last Stamp is more than a documentary; it is a call to truly see the individuals we care for, to listen beyond assumptions, and to provide care rooted in dignity, respect, and compassion.
For a little glimpse into this heartwarming film, click on the link to the trailer for The Last Stamp. And sign up on the website to be notified of future screenings.
Website: www.thelaststampfilm.com
Trailer: The Last Stamp Official Trailer
Stream the whole movie: Want to stream the movie right now? If you make a donation of any amount to The Roland Center, within 24 hours they will send a private password to access the film. Since access to The Last Stamp expires after 72 hours, you must plan carefully. Donate to stream The Last Stamp.
Watch the movie, share in the conversation, and make a better community.
