Filmmaker Statement

This film began as a joint effort, between Mary and her son, Oisín. Mary believed that living with cancer is a unique journey, one that is specific to every individual. However, during the filming process, Mary’s health severely deteriorated. Determined to make her point, Mary agreed to be filmed for the final days of her life, enabling Oisín to finish the film in her absence. Making use of charcoal drawings, oil painting, and intimate family footage, 'Mary Lost her Battle' proposes that we shouldn't let the societal fear of death negatively influence our attitudes to end-of-life care. Instead, when offering our support, the perspectives of those with cancer should be considered. MLHB shows how Mary made the conscious decision to enjoy life, even after being diagnosed with an incurable disease.