Lorenzo’s Oil Reflection Paper
Gordon Brown's remark "When something genuinely matters, you
should never give up or give in" was echoed in Lorenzo's Oil movie. There are
several reasons to give up in life, but there are also numerous reasons to
continue, particularly if you have family to support you. Fighting for the unknown
is never easy, as in the case of the five-year-old boy who suffers from the
unknown disease Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), but all is possible due of his
parents' love.
The film is about the struggles that the Odone family has while facing an
unknown
disease
that
their
son
has been
diagnosed
with
called
Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). It is a fatal hereditary condition that primarily
affects boys and men. It damages the membrane that surrounds nerve cells in
the brain and spinal cord. The film depicts the transformation of a joyful, active
boy into one who suffers from deafness, loss of balance, and hyperactivity as
a result of brain damage. Despite this, the Odone family grows more empathetic
in order to assist their son. They become researchers in order to thoroughly
comprehend the disease, discover a solution, and never give up on their loved
one. The Odone family seldom exhibits signs of weakness, but they are
becoming more courageous in their fight for a treatment to help prolong the life
of their son, who was given a two-year prognosis. And, as a result of their
unwavering love and battling spirit, they discover a substance known as
Lorenzo's oil, which not only helps to prolong the life of their son but also helps
other children.
As I watch the film, I am filled with emotions. It's difficult to see Lorenzo's
tragic transformation. As a five-year-old boy, he should be able to participate in
typical kid’s activities such as playing outside, making friends, learning new
skills, and enjoying school; yet, because to his ALD, he was unable to do so.
Lorenzo became paralyzed and had diminished physical function as a result of
the formation of very long chain fatty acids, which destroyed the protective
myelin layer around nerve cells, which is crucial for brain function. In the movie,
I remember the lines of Mrs. Odone conveyed to Lorenzo, such as “tell to your
brain, tell to your toes, your fingers, your anything to do what you want them to
do and then, one day, I’ll hear my voice and all these words I’m thinking will get
outside my head”. These lines represent the way the nerve signals a message
to different parts of the body so that the body will follow it. That moment also
demonstrates how Lorenzo's physique has improved after receiving the
Lorenzo's oil. It's also one of my favorite parts from the film since the performers
do an excellent job portraying the character. Even though the film was old, the
scene was clear and the narrative was told effectively. The performers portray
their roles in a way that elicits emotions in the audience. Mrs. Odone, played by
Susan Sarandon, portrays a mother's normal reaction when her paraplegic son
shows signs of progress. Her enthusiasm, love, and trepidation could all be
seen on her face, making the scenario both emotional and stunning. It
demonstrates the mother's love for her kid, but it's also painful for her to see
their son suffer, especially after learning that the illness was caused by her
genes. I can't image the anguish she must have felt when she realized she was
the cause of his son's misery. Mr. Odone likewise gives his all to provide for his
family. Working to meet his family's necessities while also studying and
speaking with several experts in order to discover a treatment for his son's
sickness is difficult. Nonetheless, their battling spirit encouraged me. They offer
everything they have to help their son. They devote time to learning about the
condition, consult with several specialists, and dispute with others in order to
help their child. Despite the fact that they are working and studying about the
sickness, they continue to assist Lorenzo by complimenting him, calming his
feelings, reading a book, and expressing their love. It demonstrates the lengths
to which parents will go to support their son.
"Sometimes, I wonder if people realize how incredible you truly are," was
my favorite line in the film. It has significance for both Lorenzo and his parents.
They genuinely demonstrate that miracles can be achieved through hard work,
persistence, and love. Even when people disagree with them, do not trust them,
and do not support them, they shine and achieve their goal for their loved ones.
Fighting is difficult for them, but they persevere because they believe. And I
want people to remember that, despite our flaws and weaknesses, we can still
do great things because we are all incredible.