I want to tell the story through whimsical tone and true facts of both experiencing a serious stroke...

I am seeking an animator to collaborate on a personal project based on my firsthand experience as a survivor of a serious stroke and the subsequent failures and shortcomings within the medical system. The goal is to create a 10-15 minute animated cartoon that uses a whimsical yet honest tone to mix true storytelling with humor. The animation should highlight the realities of receiving poor medical treatment, the losses that follow, and the ongoing gaslighting from medical practitioners and institutions. Ideally, the style would draw inspiration from the boldness and simplicity of shows like South Park, but should have its own unique, approachable, and personal aesthetic—accessible enough for broad audiences, but still capable of addressing heavy topics with biting candor.

I have medical records, personal documents, and compelling narrative details available for reference, and I hope the resulting work can both raise awareness and educate others about stroke risk, warning signs, and the inadequacies and dangers present in the healthcare system. I’m interested in working with an animator who brings not only the technical skills but possibly a personal connection to similar medical experiences for greater authenticity. There is no strict deadline, as the project is in early development and depends on additional funding and preparation. If this first project is successful, there is potential for future related collaborations.

Budget range:
Larger project ($5,000 – 10,000 USD)

Examples:
We are in the “thumbnail” phase, and as shorthand I think the boldness, simplicity, humor and straightforward storytelling of South Park’s work is a good starting point. I would aim for a more “G” rated voice and picture without compromising on truth. Ideally the “style” would be much different from SP and more personal to the illustrator, I envision a collaboration with real gut-hitting visuals and storytelling that cut through all the nonsense that we hear all the time from the medical establishment for why they have “accidentally” killed and maimed and missed obvious things for which they express no regret nor willingness to improve. A style that balances between definite human form in an approachable cartoonish expression with fun elements that draw people into the story and understanding clearly the process, ideally finding themselves on that same gurney having a stroke and watching many doctors walk by nonchalantly as though the patient was just having a rough morning.

Who are you, and what do you do?
Northern California area. I’m on a fixed income and struggling, but have a sense that as a project becomes further along that there are some wealthy (and non) friends that might pitch in and the “go fund me” route is another likely possibility. We also have survivor groups where stroke education portion of this as well as their knowledge of what was done to me may be helpful in obtaining resources.

In what capacity are you hiring?
For a personal project

Where are you in the hiring process?
I’m planning and researching

What type of work is this?
Single job with potential follow up work

What experience level is needed?:
Beginner, Junior, Mid-level (Industry Average)