Announcing the New Title of the Documentary
After nearly a decade of dedicated work, Susan's Story has undergone a small but meaningful transformation that marks an important step toward the documentary’s 2024 release date. The film will now be known simply as Susan.
Directed and produced by Russ Kirkpatrick, Susan offers a deep and poignant look into the life of Susan Suchan, a Tulsa woman whose world was turned upside down when she received a frontotemporal dementia (FTD) diagnosis in 2013. Over several years, Kirkpatrick and the film's crew documented the lives of Susan and her family, capturing intimate and powerful moments.
FTD, a lesser-known but devastating condition, affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to drastic changes in personality, behavior, and language. It is the most common form of dementia for those under the age of 60. In a dramatic and honest fashion, Susan put a face to FTD and tirelessly advocated for others with similar diagnoses. Today, Susan’s advocacy work is continued through her daughter, Heather Miller.
The decision to shorten the title to Susan reflects our commitment to bringing viewers closer to her story. It is a name that speaks directly to the person at the heart of this journey, allowing her humanity and strength to shine through. As we approach the film's release, we are excited for audiences to see Susan as we did—an extraordinary woman whose lived experiences offer profound insights into the realities of living with FTD. We believe that Susan will not only honor her memory, but also continue to raise awareness about FTD, fostering understanding and empathy among viewers.
Stay tuned for more updates as we finalize the details for the 2024 completion and release. We look forward to sharing Susan's incredible story with the world!