THE COMA CLUB follows four matriarchs as their loved ones emerge from comas caused by injuries sustained during America's recent wars. Moving between an annual retreat and their lives back home, the film offers a rare, intimate portrait of caregiving and the resilience of families living in combat’s long shadow.
SYNOPSIS
THE COMA CLUB is a feature-length documentary that intimately examines the lives of a close-knit group of families who met in a VA hospital and have become full-time caregivers for their loved ones as a result of injuries sustained during America’s recent wars. Led by women, these families have formed a community they call the “Coma Club,” a nod to their loved ones’ condition - severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
No area of modern medicine remains more mysterious than severe TBI, leaving these families uncertain about what the future holds. The injury impacts not only the patients themselves, but also those closest to them - creating a ripple effect as each family member adjusts to entirely new roles and relationships.
In the face of an unbelievable new reality, these families have forged something extraordinary: a community sustained by shared strength, irreverent humor, and an unbreakable bond. THE COMA CLUB reveals not only the impact of combat on families, but also the depth of love of those impacted.
Director Statement
Through THE COMA CLUB, I’ve come to know families whose lives have been irrevocably shaped by war. Their stories reveal that even in the wake of the most challenging experiences a family can endure, there can also be laughter, tenderness, and extraordinary grit. This film is rooted in love - the bonds between husbands and wives, parents and children, and the deep friendships formed in the face of hardship. It is ultimately a hopeful story about human connection and the strength people find in each other. I began working with veteran and caregiver communities across the country over ten years ago. I was struck by how deeply I connected with this community, and by the urgency with which I’ve continually returned to these stories. What affected me most was realizing how little I truly understood about the intergenerational impact of combat on American families - an impact felt not only by the service member, but by their loved ones. In the case of catastrophic injuries, caregiving can become both a full-time job and a lifelong commitment. The stories in this film are a testament to the depths of human resilience. Our participants, each facing their own remarkable circumstances, have reinvented themselves as families in the aftermath of injury. Within their chosen family of the “Coma Club,” they have built a community that transcends trauma. My hope is that this film gives voice to a group that hasn’t always been recognized and inspires others facing trauma to find strength through connection.
Supporter Statement
"THE COMA CLUB is a moving story about the power of connection throughout the journey of a military caregiver. This documentary presents an honest and raw portrayal of military caregivers as they navigate the challenges of their roles while also raising families and experiencing loss. The film underscores the importance of connection and the community these caregivers build, highlighting their strength and resilience. These caregivers are the true hidden heroes, supporting our nation’s heroes with love, dedication and of course, humor. The Coma Club reveals real-life triumphs and tragedies, offering a poignant and authentic look at the lives of military caregivers. Their stories are important, and this film is a must see." - Wounded Warrior Project
“THE COMA CLUB is a powerful testament to the experiences of military and veteran caregivers. Sharing these stories is essential—not only to amplify their voices but to foster connection, strengthen communities, and remind these families that they are never alone. There are others who understand their journey, and we stand beside them in unwavering support.” - The Elizabeth Dole Foundation
ABOUT FILMMAKER(S)
Erin Sanger
Erin is a Colorado-born filmmaker working in both narrative and documentary realms. Her films often examine character-driven stories of trauma and healing. Her directorial work has screened at festivals including SXSW, Tribeca, and Aspen Shortfest, and has been featured on ESPN, PBS, The Atlantic, National Geographic, and Topic. She is a Wasserman Award winner, Webby Award honoree, Student Academy Award nominee, American Film Showcase Envoy, and Academy Nicholl Fellowship Semi Finalist. Her documentary project MACK WRESTLES, which she produced and directed for ESPN’s acclaimed 30 for 30 series, aired on both ESPN and ABC and became the first short documentary ESPN Films chose to campaign for an Oscar.
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Women Make Movies (WMM), Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit media arts organization registered with the New York Charities Bureau of New York State and accepts charitable donations on behalf of this project. Your donation will be spent by the filmmaker(s) toward the production and completion of this media project. No services or goods are provided by Women Make Movies, the filmmaker(s) or anyone else associated with this project in exchange for your charitable donation.
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