# Izidor Story > to belong is to be alive Language: en URL: https://izidorstory.com/ All pages on this site are available as clean Markdown by adding the header `Accept: text/markdown` to any HTTP request, or via the REST API: REST API: https://izidorstory.com/wp-json/mescio-for-agents/v1/markdown?url={page_url} REST API (by id): https://izidorstory.com/wp-json/mescio-for-agents/v1/markdown?id={post_id} ## Pages - [Child Welfare Form](https://izidorstory.com/child-welfare-form/): Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience designed to strengthen foster parent training, support continuing education for child welfare professionals, and help rekindle the purpose and hope that sustain those serving vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can - [Privacy Policy – test](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy-test/): Privacy Policy – test Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. - [Login Designer](https://izidorstory.com/login-designer/): This page is used by Login Designer to preview the login form in the Customizer. - [Church form](https://izidorstory.com/church-form/): Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that helps churches explore God’s heart for vulnerable children while equipping people to take practical next steps. For a church of 2000+ membership/attendance, please use this form to provide your information so we - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/): Contact Downloads Logline Trapped in a horrid, animated asylum, an orphan discovers a beautiful, real world exists outside the gate. Synopsis Disabled children are banished in 1988 communist Romania. But one daring nanny resolves to take 8-year-old Izidor outside for - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/): Contact Producer Sarah Padbury Director David Kabbe Producer Izidor Ruckel Producer’s Statement Sarah Padbury As Mom to seven children, all of whom joined our family through adoption, I am driven to give voice to children who are missing a mom - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/): Contact Iosua Barbu as Izidor (EE-zee-door) At age 8, Iosua’s standout audition earned him a lead role in his acting debut. Now 12, he enjoys clay modeling, playing guitar, and building STAR WARS Legos. He hopes playing Izidor marks the - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/): The Contact Director/PRODUCER David Kabbe IZIDOR marks Dave’s narrative film directorial debut, building on his 20 years of experience producing, coordinating, and directing a diverse range of projects—from independent films and television to live events, tentpole premieres, talk shows, and - [Izidor Story team](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-team/): About Izidor Who we are Izidor Story uses film to create meaningful change for vulnerable children and families, across child welfare and beyond. At the center of our work is IZIDOR, a 30-minute film designed not just to be watched, but - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/): 10 Questions #1 What inspired the idea for this film? COURAGEOUS KINDNESS: Kindness is more than just being nice. Kindness shocks us because it takes courage. It requires great personal risk with no guarantee of reward. Yet in a moment - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/): Contact us Send us a message - [Education Form](https://izidorstory.com/education-form/): Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that uses one extraordinary true story as a case study to explore trauma, belonging, resilience, and courageous kindness. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your - [Organization form](https://izidorstory.com/organization-form/): Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience designed to help organizations spark meaningful conversations and inspire practical action on behalf of vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your goals and - [Welcome](https://izidorstory.com/): https://vimeo.com/1042002431?share=copy Izidor One child’s story becomes a window into the struggles and hopes of vulnerable children everywhere. Stories shape how we see the world. Reflection changes what we do. IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that becomes a catalyst for - [About the film](https://izidorstory.com/about/): The short film Recent media coverage IZIDOR is a short film based on an awakening event in Izidor Ruckel's childhood. Izidor lived in a hidden institution for eight years where "defective" children were banished and abused in Communist Romania, never - [About us](https://izidorstory.com/about-us/): About us Engaging quote from you or authority in your space About us content - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/contact/): Claes Jonasson Design LLC - [Meet Izidor](https://izidorstory.com/meet-izidor/): About Izidor Set in 1988, IZIDOR is inspired by the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Abandoned as a baby after contracting polio, he grew up in one of Romania’s notorious state-run orphanages. These institutions, products of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s communist regime, - [News](https://izidorstory.com/news/) - [Izidor Limited Series](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-limited-series/): A disabled orphan escapes a hellish Romanian orphanage through adoption, only to grow up and discover he still isn’t free. LIMITED SERIES: Watch this 5-minute clip of Izidor revealing why post-Communist Romania had so many abandoned children and Izidor's goals for - [Watch now](https://izidorstory.com/watch-now/): Watch now Individual rental Stream IZIDOR for watching at home or on the go. Incorporate IZIDOR in your organization’s work Packages for using IZIDOR in organizations, child welfare agencies, churches, and education. Packages include film streaming and downloadable discussion guides. - [Individual rental](https://izidorstory.com/individual/): Individual rental Coming in 2026 The release date for Izidor for individual rental is still pending. To be the first to know when a date is set, be sure to sign up here to get our email updates: - [Group viewing](https://izidorstory.com/groups/): Group licensing IZIDOR: A Transformative 30-minute Film Every IZIDOR experience begins with a shared viewing of the film, followed by a guided discussion.   The story opens the door to understanding, while deeper conversation helps participants connect what they’ve seen - [Using the Izidor film in your Church](https://izidorstory.com/groups/churches/): From Compassion to Action Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children is a biblical calling. But knowing the call and knowing how to respond are two different things. IZIDOR gives that calling a face and a story. Through one family’s courageous act - [Education](https://izidorstory.com/groups/education/): Bring Learning to Life Students can learn concepts from a textbook or lecture. IZIDOR gives them the opportunity to see those concepts lived out through a powerful human story. The film becomes a real-world case study, bringing academic concepts into - [Organization](https://izidorstory.com/groups/organization/): One Film. Multiple Ways to Advance Your Mission. Creating an engaging event shouldn’t mean starting from scratch.  IZIDOR combines a powerful 30-minute film with ready-to-use discussion guides and promotional materials, making it easy to bring people together around your mission and - [Child Welfare](https://izidorstory.com/groups/child-welfare/): A Different Story. Same Human Needs. Izidor’s story takes place in an institution, but the questions at its heart reach far beyond institutional care: What happens when a child grows up without consistent, nurturing relationships? What helps a young person - [Take action](https://izidorstory.com/take-action/): Take action You’ve seen the story. Now you can be part of the change. Vulnerable children need safe homes, strong support, and caring adults willing to stand with them. There are many ways to make a difference: helping families in - [Need help?](https://izidorstory.com/need-help/): Need help? If You’re Hurting, You’re Not Alone If Izidor’s story stirred up painful memories or left you feeling overwhelmed, please know this: you are not alone. Many people carry hidden wounds from childhood experiences, separation, loss, or trauma. If - [Privacy policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. - [Terms of service](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-service/): Terms of use Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. - [Disclaimer](https://izidorstory.com/disclaimer/): Disclaimer Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. ## Blog Posts - [The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/the-eddrick-show-interview-with-director-david-kabbe/) (2025-09-26): Podcaster Eddrick Jerome interviews director David Kabbe about the genesis of IZIDOR. - [IZIDOR’s Big Summer 2025](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/) (2025-09-15): IZIDOR moves audiences around the world to tears, laughter, and most importantly - action. - [DMovies: Witness Romania through the eye of an orphaned child](https://izidorstory.com/dirty-movies-dmovies-witness-romania-through-the-eye-of-an-orphaned-child/) (2025-06-04): DMovies talks with director David Kabbe about the real meaning of resilience, recording sound at an elementary school, and more... - [‘izidor’ Review: Iosua Barbu is a marvel in the role of Izidor](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-iosua-barbu-is-a-marvel-in-the-role-of-izidor/) (2025-06-04): DMovies says IZIDOR is a movie that reminds adults of their inner child. - [Film Daily: Hope wins](https://izidorstory.com/film-daily-hope-wins/) (2025-05-29): Film Daily interviews director David Kabbe on the power of courageous kindness. - [Indie Wrap: Some films don’t just entertain — they move us.](https://izidorstory.com/indie-wrap-some-films-dont-just-entertain-they-move-us/) (2025-05-28): Indie Wrap asks director David Kabbe and writer/producer/actress Sarah Padbury what brought each of them to tell Izidor's story. - [‘izidor’ Review: A fairy tale in the modern age](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-fairy-tale-in-the-modern-age/) (2025-05-26): Movie Blogger film critic Federico Furzan reviews IZIDOR. - [Film Fugitives: Director David Kabbe on Romania’s sordid history](https://izidorstory.com/film-fugitives-director-david-kabbe-on-romanias-sordid-history/) (2025-05-03): Film Fugitives movie critic Pramit Chatterjee interviews David Kabbe about working with child actors, animation and the real meaning of the movie IZIDOR. - [‘izidor’ Review: A stunning depiction of one child’s shot at escaping state-inflicted shame](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-stunning-depiction-of-one-childs-shot-at-escaping-state-inflicted-shame-and-isolation/) (2025-04-30): Rotten Tomatoes accredited global critic Ronak Kotecha reviews IZIDOR. - [‘izidor’ Review: A whisper from the shadows of history](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-whisper-from-the-shadows-of-history/) (2025-04-22): GHMovie Freak film critic reviews IZIDOR, giving it a 5/5 star review! "IZIDOR uncovers a forgotten injustice..." - [Bond on Cinema: What happens when Izidor experiences family for the first time?](https://izidorstory.com/bond-on-cinema-what-happens-when-izidor-experiences-family-for-the-first-time/) (2025-04-21): YouTube film critic Ward Bond hosts an in-depth interview with David Kabbe and Sarah Padbury. - [‘izidor’ Review: Get That Movie](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-get-that-movie/) (2025-04-10): Get That Movie film critic and YouTuber Ale Turdo reviews IZIDOR, giving it a 9/10 star review... - [‘izidor’ Review:  A Tender Glimpse into a Hidden Past](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-tender-glimpse-into-a-hidden-past/) (2025-04-05): Scene for Scene film critic Reina K gives IZIDOR a 4.5-star review. "In just under thirty minutes, IZIDOR manages to stir the soul, break your heart, and gently piece it back together again..." - [‘izidor’ Review: A Short Film That Hits Like a Sledgehammer](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-short-film-that-hits-like-a-sledgehammer/) (2025-04-05): Action Reloaded film critic Jeff Turner gives IZIDOR a 5-star review, calling it "unmissable"! - [‘izidor’ Review: An artfully sincere homage to survivors](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-an-artfully-sincere-homage-to-survivors/) (2025-03-28): Cinemacy founder and film critic Morgan Rojas reviews IZIDOR. - [Authority Magazine: Things I wish someone told me](https://izidorstory.com/authority-magazine-sarah-padbury-of-izidor-story-things-i-wish-someone-told-me-when-i-first-became-a-filmmaker/) (2025-03-14): Authority Magazine interviews writer/producer Sarah Padbury about her journey from advocating for children through adoption to writing and producing the film IZIDOR. - [Grit Daily: Conversation with Indie Filmmaker David Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/grit-daily-conversation-with-indie-filmmaker-david-kabbe-izidor-film/) (2025-03-04): Grit Daily interviews director David Kabbe about the struggle to secure funding for independent films and the use of AI to augment animation. - [Romania Insider: From hopelessness to hope](https://izidorstory.com/romania-insider-a-romanian-orphanage-survivors-path-to-healing-in-izidor-a-short-film/) (2025-02-17): Romania Insider interviews producer Izidor Ruckel, director David Kabbe, and lead actress Sarah Padbury about the new short film, IZIDOR. - [IZIDOR the film is finished!](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-film-finished/) (2024-11-24): IZIDOR, the short film, finishes production. Read what is planned next and how to view the 30-minute movie. - [Libertatae (video): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/libertatae-video-sighetu-marmatiei-romania/) (2023-09-12): LIBERTATAE follows Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei as settles into a new home and looks for work. (English with Romanian subs.) - [Libertatea (article): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/libertatea-sighetu-marmatiei-romania/) (2023-09-12): LIBERTATAE interviews Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei about his efforts to live in Romania in 2023. - [IZIDOR Production Update (Spring 2023)](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-production-update-spring-2023/) (2023-03-24): Izidor Ruckel, David Kabbe (Director) and Sarah Padbury (Producer) provide an update on the production timeline and fundraising effort. - [“All of Life” Podcast: The Power of Belonging](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-producer-podcast-interview/) (2022-05-13): Sarah Padbury, producer and writer of the short film IZIDOR, participates in a panel discussion on belonging and hospitality on the "All of Life" podcast at Redemption Church Tempe (Arizona). - [Short film update: GREAT news!](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-report-from-romania-filming/) (2021-11-03): The IZIDOR production team gives an overview of their 5-week timeline to shoot the live action sequences in Romania, including first hiring actors and finding locations! - [REAL BOY FOR A DAY: A short film](https://izidorstory.com/real-boy-for-a-day-a-short-film/) (2021-05-21): In December 2020, we announced we had entered pre-production for the narrative limited series IZIDOR, based on the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Now, we are pleased to announce we will preview the series with a short film called REAL - [“Your Day Brighter” Podcast: Izidor Ruckel’s Incredible Journey to Healing](https://izidorstory.com/abandoned-adopted-advocate-izidor-ruckels-incredible-journey-to-healing/) (2021-01-27): Tracey Tiernan interviews orphan advocate Izidor Ruckel and screenwriter Sarah Padbury on her podcast, "Your day brighter: Real reasons to have hope in this world." The duo discuss how they met, Izidor's journey from orphan to advocate, and how they - [IZIDOR limited series begins pre-production!](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-limited-series-begins-pre-production/) (2020-12-16): The time has come! I never could have imagined this when I was ten. Izidor looks out his old window in 2015. Back then, I remember staring out the orphanage window for hours at a time, wondering if there was - [[ROMANIAN Translation] The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love?](https://izidorstory.com/romanian-translation-the-atlantic-can-and-unloved-child-learn-to-love/) (2020-07-17): The Atlantic's July 2020 feature article by Melissa Greene about Izidor Ruckel was translated into Romanian by DOR, Romania's leading magazine of literary nonfiction. It includes new photos of Izidor's journey. Read the story here in Romanian. Read the original story - [The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love?](https://izidorstory.com/the-atlantic-can-an-uloved-child-learn-to-love/) (2020-06-18): The Atlantic takes a deep dive into Izidor Ruckel's story of surviving a horrific Romanian orphanage. Presenting comprehensive analysis of institutionalized children from experts, the almost 9,000-word story is the most in-depth look to date of what he and tens - [Ruckel attends Romanian premiere of ‘The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman’](https://izidorstory.com/ruckel-attends-romanian-premiere-of-the-story-of-us-with-morgan-freeman-and-heads-back-to-the-u-s/) (2018-01-16): Ruckel ends two years' service with successful event On January 10th, Izidor Ruckel attended the Romanian premiere of The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman in Bucharest. The event, held in Cinema Pro’s largest theater, drew over 400 people, including - [Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseries](https://izidorstory.com/morgan-freeman-interviews-izidor-ruckel-for-new-docuseries/) (2017-10-02): FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseriesThe Story of Us with Morgan Freeman highlights the power of love with Ruckel’s story LOS ANGELES, Calif., October 2, 2017 – Morgan Freeman interviewed Izidor Ruckel for the six-part docuseries The - [Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune](https://izidorstory.com/1461-2/) (2017-10-02): PENTRU  DISTRIBUȚIE IMEDIATA Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune"Povestea noastră" cu Morgan Freeman evidențiază puterea dragostei prin povestea lui Izidor Ruckel. LOS ANGELES, Calif., 2 Octombrie, 2017 – Morgan Freeman la intervievat pe Ruckel pentru un - [BAMA Mediaworks: Budapest, Hungary](https://izidorstory.com/bama-mediaworks-budapest-hungary/) (2017-08-23): Izidor Ruckel is interviewed regarding a report by the Romanian Prosecutor's Office on the Crime of Communism (IICCMER), which documents the era's lack of care for orphans. (Story archived.) - [Antena 1 Observator: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/antena-1-observator-bucharest-romania/) (2017-06-01): Izidor, supravieţuitorul din „Orfelinatul Groazei“ din Sighetu Marmaţiei: Există copii care. The Observator interviews Izidor Ruckel about the long-term effects of orphanage life. Watch the interview here. - [Izidor’s first 10 months in Romania – and counting!](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-first-10-months-in-romania-and-counting/) (2017-02-14): In April 2016, as Izidor was packing up to head back to the United States after a one-month visit to Romania, he received a one-year job offer from Love Light Romania (LLR). Izidor decided to stay and work with the - [Mix Actual: Brașov, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/mix-actual-brasov-romania/) (2016-09-27): Izidor Ruckel and Azota Popescu (left) of the Catharsis Association interview on Mix Actual inBrașov, Romania. Watch the full interview here. - [Breaking News: Izidor Ruckel moves to Romania](https://izidorstory.com/breaking-news-izidor-ruckel-moves-to-romania/) (2016-04-25): BUCHAREST, ROMANIA>> In a Bucharest apartment last week, Izidor Ruckel was packing to return to the United States when his phone buzzed. “Hi Izidor, sorry do not want to disturb you, I know you are busy,” said the text message. - [ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/protvs-la-maruta-bucharest-romania/) (2016-04-18): Izidor, filmul copiilor salvati din Iad Cătălin Măruță, well-known host of the talk show "La Măruță," interviewed Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, about Izidor's efforts to turn his life story into a film. Watch the interview here. - [BBC News: London, United Kingdom](https://izidorstory.com/bbc-news-london-united-kingdom-uk/) (2016-04-06): The Brixton Broadcasting Corporation (BBC News) interviewed Izidor Ruckel about growing up in a Romanian orphanage. View the story on BBC News. (4 minutes) Listen to the BBC Radio interview. (11 minutes) - [BBC Radio: London, United Kingdom](https://izidorstory.com/bbc-radio-interviews-izidor-ruckel/) (2016-03-29): BBC Radio in-depth interview with Izidor Ruckel on Mar. 28, 2016 about institutionalized life in Communist Romania. Listen to the BBC Radio interview. (11 minutes) View the BBC News story. (4 minutes) - [Los Angeles Times: Former Romanian orphan in the U.S. helps…](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-featured-in-los-angeles-times/) (2016-01-04): Los Angeles Times reporter John M. Glionna traveled to Colorado in 2015 to interview Izidor Ruckel. The meeting reunited Glionna and Ruckel for the first time since 1991. Glionna's first story covered Ruckel's transition into his new adoptive family after arriving in America at - [Izidor Ruckel reveals new film on live radio show](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-interviewed-on-stacy-petty-show-movie-sarah-padbury-radio/) (2015-08-08): Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, participated in a two-hour radio interview on the Stacy Petty Show on Friday, Aug. 7. The live broadcast is a daily show on 1310 KFKA, a news talk AM radio station, based in Greeley, Colo., within reach of one million - [TVR: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/tvr-bucharest-romania/) (2015-07-15): Abandonaţi pe viaţă. Poveşti din orfelinatele groazei. Izidor Ruckel, several other adoptees, and government officials discuss Romanian international adoption issues. Watch the TVR story here. - [Izidor Ruckel concludes 2-month tour of Romania](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-concludes-2-month-tour-of-romania-orphan-florica-popescu-oradea-brasov-bucharest-protv/) (2015-05-30): Izidor Ruckel returned to the United States in early May after a two-month stay in Romania, his birth country. Due to major press coverage around the country and across Europe throughout his trip, citizens began approaching Ruckel in every city - [Radio Transilvania: Cluj, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-interview-on-radio-transilvania/) (2015-04-03): Radio Transilvania interview with international adoptees Izidor Ruckel, Veronica Clark and Alex Kush in Cluj, Romania. "My goal in Romania is to create advocacy with citizens within the country.  the purpose for international adoption that I am personally fighting for - [TVR 1: Brașov, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/salvati-din-orfelinate-acum-vor-ei-sa-ajute-copiii-orfani-din-romania/) (2015-03-21): lvaţi din orfelinate. Acum vor ei să ajute copiii orfani din România A Stirile TVR1 news story announcing Izidor and Alex Kush's speaking engagement in Brașov, Romania. "...After nearly a quarter century, Isidor and Alexander, two young adopted from the former - [Romanian Global News: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-isi-reintalneste-in-romania-familia-biologica-care-l-a-abandonat-si-colegii-din-orfelinatul-groazei-de-la-sighet-la-24-de-ani-de-la-adoptie/) (2015-03-17): Izidor Ruckel îşi reîntâlneşte, în România, familia biologică care l-a abandonat şi colegii din orfelinatul groazei de la Sighet, la 24 de ani de la adopţie Romanian Global News featured Izidor's spring 2015 trip to Romania and his efforts to help - [Izidor Ruckel a hit on live Romanian TV](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-a-hit-on-live-romanian-tv/) (2015-03-17): Ruckel’s Facebook page explodes during six nights of live interviews on ProTV’s “La Măruță” Izidor and Marlys visit Tasnad, Romania BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 3/17/15: Izidor Ruckel’s scheduled 2-day interview on ProTV’s “La Măruță” was extended to 6 days on the live - [ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-on-protvs-la-maruta-adoption-international-romania-orphan/) (2015-03-16): On March 9, 2015, Izidor Ruckel was interviewed on live TV by Cătălin Măruţă on ProTV's "La Măruţă" in Bucharest, Romania. His appearance on the show was extended to six days (Mar 9-13 and 16) due to skyrocketing ratings when his adoptive mom, - [Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-s-a-reintalnit-cu-parintii-care-l-au-abandonat-in-orfelinatul-groazei-din-sighet-reactia-mamei-sale-biologice_adoption_romania_ruckel/) (2015-03-12): Izidor s-a reintalnit cu parintii care l-au abandonat in orfelinatul groazei din Sighet. Reactia mamei sale biologice A Stirile ProTV news story featuring Izidor's return to Romania in March 2015 and reunion with his biological parents. "Izidor reunited with parents who --- # Full Content --- title: "Child Welfare Form" url: "https://izidorstory.com/child-welfare-form/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience designed to strengthen foster parent training, support continuing education for child welfare professionals, and help rekindle the purpose and hope that sustain those serving vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can" last_modified: "2026-10-15T21:31:19+00:00" --- # Child Welfare Form ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Eddrick-Show-2.jpg) ![IZIDOR child welfare package graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/child-welfare-package-wh.webp) # Information request _IZIDOR_ is a film-based learning experience designed to strengthen foster parent training, support continuing education for child welfare professionals, and help rekindle the purpose and hope that sustain those serving vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your agency’s needs and provide information on pricing and available discussion guides. FacebookThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Phone Position/Title(Required) Agency/Organization(Required) Location(Required) City State / Province / Region Country AfghanistanÅland IslandsAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRéunionRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTürkiyeTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUS Minor Outlying IslandsUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe Agency Type(Required) State Child Welfare Agency County Child Welfare Agency Tribal Child Welfare Agency Private Child Welfare Provider Foster Care Provider Family Preservation Provider Other Describe your agency(Required) Estimated Number of Participants(Required) Under 20 20–50 51–100 101–250 251–500 501–1,000 Over 1,000 Intended Use(Required)(Select all that apply) Event-in-a-Box (one-time screening and discussion) Foster Parent Training Professional Continuing Education Staff Training Community Awareness Event Support Groups Family Preservation Services Recruitment and Retention of Foster Families Other Describe your intended use(Required) Preferred License(Required) Single-use license Unlimited use for one year Not sure yet When Are You Hoping to Use IZIDOR?(Required) Specific Event Within 3 months 3–6 months 6–12 months More than 1 year away Just exploring Event Name Event Date MessageTell us about your program, goals, or questions. We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "Organization form" url: "https://izidorstory.com/organization-form/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience designed to help organizations spark meaningful conversations and inspire practical action on behalf of vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your goals and" last_modified: "2026-10-15T21:18:28+00:00" --- # Organization form ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Eddrick-Show-2.jpg) ![IZIDOR organization package](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/organization-package-wh.webp) # Information request _IZIDOR_ is a film-based learning experience designed to help organizations spark meaningful conversations and inspire practical action on behalf of vulnerable children. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your goals and provide information on pricing and available discussion guides. PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Phone Position/Title(Required) Organization(Required) Location(Required) City State / Province / Region Country AfghanistanÅland IslandsAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRéunionRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTürkiyeTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUS Minor Outlying IslandsUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe Type of organization(Required) Adoption Organization Foster Care Organization Child Welfare Nonprofit Family Services Organization Faith-Based Organization Mental Health Organization Advocacy Organization Foundation Other Describe your organization(Required) Estimated Number of Participants(Required) Under 20 20–50 51–100 101–250 251–500 501–1,000 Over 1,000 Intended Use(Required)(Select all that apply) Event-in-a-Box (one-time screening and discussion) Foster Parent Training Professional Continuing Education Support Groups Staff Training Volunteer Training Community Awareness Event Other Describe your intended use(Required) Preferred License(Required) Single-use license Unlimited use for one year Not sure yet When Are You Hoping to Use IZIDOR?(Required) Specific event Within 3 months 3–6 months 6–12 months More than 1 year away Just exploring Event name Event Date MessageTell us about your program, goals, or questions. We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "Education Form" url: "https://izidorstory.com/education-form/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that uses one extraordinary true story as a case study to explore trauma, belonging, resilience, and courageous kindness. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your" last_modified: "2026-10-14T16:25:40+00:00" --- # Education Form ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Eddrick-Show-2.jpg) ![IZIDOR Education package icon](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/education-package1-wh.webp) # Information request _IZIDOR_ is a film-based learning experience that uses one extraordinary true story as a case study to explore trauma, belonging, resilience, and courageous kindness. Complete this brief form so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your classroom, department, or campus, along with pricing details and information about the curriculum included with each license. X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Phone Position/Title(Required) School/Institution(Required) Location(Required) City State / Province / Region Country AfghanistanÅland IslandsAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRéunionRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaSaint BarthélemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTürkiyeTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUS Minor Outlying IslandsUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe Type of Institution(Required) University/College Community College High School Middle School Alternative School Homeschool Organization Other Describe your institution(Required) Estimated Number of Students Who May Participate(Required) Under 20 20–50 51–100 101–250 251–500 501–1,000 Over 1,000 Intended Use(Required)(Select all that apply) Single classroom Multiple classrooms within the same department School-wide event University course Student club Professional development for educators Other Describe your intended use(Required) Academic Field(s)(Required)(Select all that apply) Child Development Counseling Criminal Justice Education History Nursing Psychology Public Health Social Work Sociology Theology/Religion Other List your academic fields(Required) Preferred License(Required) Single-use license Unlimited use for one year within a single department Unlimited use for one year across multiple departments Not sure yet When Are You Hoping to Use IZIDOR?(Required) Within 3 months 3–6 months 6–12 months More than 1 year away Just exploring MessageTell us about your program, goals, or questions. We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "Izidor Story team" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-team/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "About Izidor Who we are Izidor Story uses film to create meaningful change for vulnerable children and families, across child welfare and beyond. At the center of our work is IZIDOR, a 30-minute film designed not just to be watched, but" last_modified: "2026-10-20T16:50:06+00:00" --- # Izidor Story team # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## Who we are Izidor Story uses film to create meaningful change for vulnerable children and families, across child welfare and beyond. ![Izidor actor in woods, film title logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IZIDOR-pixlogo-small-1500x844.jpeg) At the center of our work is _IZIDOR_, a 30-minute film designed not just to be watched, but to spark conversation. We pair the film with guided discussion and practical tools, forming a story-driven platform that helps turn that experience into reflection, connection, and next steps. ## How it works We use a simple, intentional model: - **Shared Experience** — A 30-minute film creates a shared emotional experience, giving people a common starting point. - **Guided Conversation** — Structured discussion helps people process what they’ve seen and relate it to their own experiences. - **Next Steps** — Clear pathways turn reflection into action, whether that’s learning, engagement, or support. ## **Why it’s different** Most training and awareness efforts rely on statistics and information. While important, they can be difficult to engage with and retain. Feature-length films can create emotional impact, but they are often too long to fit into real-world settings where time for discussion and application is limited. Our approach solves both challenges. _IZIDOR_ uses story to engage people on a human level, and at 30 minutes, it fits into a single setting while leaving room for meaningful conversation and next steps. ## **What you get** We provide a complete, ready-to-use experience built around _IZIDOR_. Each partner receives access to the film for their event or setting, along with structured facilitator and participant discussion guides that turn the viewing into a guided experience. We offer distinct guide formats for different settings: - Event-in-a-Box programs to pair with your own initiative, such as recruitment or community engagement - Training resources for caregivers and professionals - Support group frameworks for youth and adoptees - Classroom materials for educators and students ## **Who it’s for** This model is designed to work across a wide range of settings: - Child welfare systems, including foster care and adoption - Organizations serving vulnerable children and families - Schools and universities - Faith-based and community organizations - Support groups for youth and adoptees ## **Our goal** We aim to strengthen belonging and connection for vulnerable children and families, wherever they are. We do this by helping people move beyond awareness into real conversation and meaningful action. ## **Team** behind the work ![Sarah Padbury](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Sarah-outdoors.webp) ### **Sarah Padbury** **Creative Director, Izidor Story LLC Writer and Producer of _IZIDOR_** _Sarah Padbury is the writer and producer of IZIDOR, an adoptive mother of seven, and a former foster parent. She held leadership roles with Project 1.27, helping design foster parent recruitment systems, training programs, and church-based engagement strategies. She now leads the work of Izidor Story, shaping IZIDOR into a scalable platform for training, recruitment, and support. _ ![Izidor Ruckel](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Izidor-cameras.webp) ### **Izidor Ruckel** **Producer and Subject of _IZIDOR_** _Izidor’s lived experience as a former Romanian orphan is the foundation of the story and shapes the work’s focus on helping vulnerable children. He shares his story to help ensure no child has to endure what he experienced, bringing awareness, understanding, and a voice to children in vulnerable situations._ ![Claes Jonasson](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ClaesJonasson-1.webp) ### **Claes Jonasson** **Creative and Digital Strategy** _Claes Jonasson leads how the IZIDOR platform connects with audiences and functions online. With decades of experience across film, design, and web, he builds integrated systems that support storytelling, engagement, and growth._ --- --- title: "Privacy Policy – test" url: "https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy-test/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Privacy Policy – test Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy." last_modified: "2025-10-30T16:28:54+00:00" --- # Privacy Policy – test # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please [click here](https://policies.termageddon.com/api/policy/VVZsMFlVODRiV040UW1wMFpIYzlQUT09) to view the policy. --- --- title: "Church form" url: "https://izidorstory.com/church-form/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Information request IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that helps churches explore God’s heart for vulnerable children while equipping people to take practical next steps. For a church of 2000+ membership/attendance, please use this form to provide your information so we" last_modified: "2026-10-15T21:23:58+00:00" --- # Church form ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Eddrick-Show-2.jpg) ![IZIDOR church package graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/church-package-wh-1.webp) # Information request _IZIDOR_ is a film-based learning experience that helps churches explore God’s heart for vulnerable children while equipping people to take practical next steps. For a church of 2000+ membership/attendance, please use this form to provide your information so we can recommend the licensing option that best fits your ministry and provide information on pricing and available discussion guides. (If your church membership/attendance is less than 2000, please [explore our packages ready for immediate purchase](https://izidorstory.com/groups/churches/#church-tiers).) Instagram This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Position(Required) Church(Required) Location(Required) City AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific State Church size Please enter membership or attendance Email(Required) Message We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe" url: "https://izidorstory.com/the-eddrick-show-interview-with-director-david-kabbe/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Podcaster Eddrick Jerome interviews director David Kabbe about the genesis of IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-09-26T17:07:40+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] tags: [david kabbe, interview, Izidor, orphan, romania, the eddrick show] --- # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe _The Eddrick Show,_ featuring podcaster Eddrick Jerome, presents compelling conversations with creative and influential guests. In this episode, he interviews director/producer David Kabbe about the genesis and purpose of the short film _IZIDOR_. Watch the interview **[here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6M_3-Hwk1UU)**. --- --- title: "Child Welfare" url: "https://izidorstory.com/groups/child-welfare/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "A Different Story. Same Human Needs. Izidor’s story takes place in an institution, but the questions at its heart reach far beyond institutional care: What happens when a child grows up without consistent, nurturing relationships? What helps a young person" last_modified: "2026-10-20T19:45:01+00:00" --- # Child Welfare ![IZIDOR child welfare package graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/child-welfare-package-wh.webp) # **A Different Story. Same Human Needs.** Izidor’s story takes place in an institution, but the questions at its heart reach far beyond institutional care: What happens when a child grows up without consistent, nurturing relationships? What helps a young person learn to trust, connect, and belong? And what difference can one caring person make? For foster and adoptive families, youth, caseworkers, and other child welfare professionals, _IZIDOR_ offers a powerful way to explore trauma, attachment, resilience, identity, and belonging. By entering someone else’s story, participants can examine difficult experiences from a little distance, then connect those insights to their own lives, relationships, and work. **Guided discussion equips participants by turning that connection into deeper understanding and practical application.** ## **Discussion guide options** **_Resources that inspire: Connection. Action. Change._** Each discussion guide is designed to be simple, flexible, and impactful. They can be used **as-is**—no expertise required—or easily tailored to fit your audience. ![Izidor Event in a Box - film + resources graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LOGO-Event-in-a-box.png) ### Event-in-a-box **Setting:** - Community events - Recruitment events **Purpose:** **MOVING TO ACTION:** A 90-minute event with a facilitator guide that inspires communities to take action on behalf of vulnerable children through a _customized Call to Action_. Additional resources coming soon: ![Izidor Support Group - film + resources graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LOGO-Support-Group.png) ### Support group **Setting:** - Youth and adults with foster care experience (12+) - Foster parents/Caregivers **Purpose:** **DIGGING DEEPER:** Multi-session, facilitator-led guides that help people touched by foster care and the families who walk alongside them explore their experiences, build connections, and find support. ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Training-pink.png) ### Training **Setting:** - Foster parent training - Caseworker continuing education (CEUs) **Purpose:** **LEANING IN:** A single-session training with facilitator-led discussion that equips caregivers and child welfare professionals to better understand and support vulnerable children in their care. ## Child Welfare package includes: - **Streaming access to the _IZIDOR_ film via browser for use with your organization. You may stream the film as many times as you want during the license period.** - **Discussion and participant guides in pdf format for download.** - **Marketing tools.** _Once purchased, the child welfare package provides access for the term of the package._ _The license allows the oraganization to host multiple group screenings during the license duration._ _The streaming link is for group use only and may not be shared for individual home viewing._ [Request package information](https://izidorstory.com/child-welfare-form/) --- --- title: "Organization" url: "https://izidorstory.com/groups/organization/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "One Film. Multiple Ways to Advance Your Mission. Creating an engaging event shouldn’t mean starting from scratch.  IZIDOR combines a powerful 30-minute film with ready-to-use discussion guides and promotional materials, making it easy to bring people together around your mission and" last_modified: "2026-10-20T19:45:56+00:00" --- # Organization ![IZIDOR organization package](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/organization-package-wh.webp) # **One Film. Multiple Ways to Advance Your Mission.** Creating an engaging event shouldn’t mean starting from scratch.  IZIDOR combines a powerful 30-minute film with ready-to-use discussion guides and promotional materials, making it easy to bring people together around your mission and move them toward action. And the film can keep working for your organization beyond a single event. Use it to introduce new audiences to your mission, recruit volunteers or supporters, and then go deeper with specialized guides for training or support groups. **One shared story becomes a flexible tool for engaging people at every level of your work.** ## **Discussion guide options** **_Resources that inspire: Connection. Action. Change._** Each discussion guide is designed to be simple, flexible, and impactful. They can be used **as-is**—no expertise required—or easily tailored to fit your audience. ![Izidor Event in a Box - film + resources graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LOGO-Event-in-a-box.png) ### Event-in-a-box **Setting:** - Community events - Recruitment events - Fundraising – Local, National, Global **Purpose:** **MOVING TO ACTION:** A 90-minute event with a facilitator guide that **mobilizes** communities to launch their own _Call to Action_ on behalf of vulnerable children and families. Additional resources coming soon: ![Izidor Support Group - film + resources graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LOGO-Support-Group.png) ### Support group **Setting:** - Youth and adults with foster care experience (12+) - Adoptees (12+) - Foster parents/Caregivers - Adoptive parents **Purpose:** **DIGGING DEEPER:** Multi-session, facilitator-led guides that **encourage** and support people touched by foster care and adoption, along with the families who walk alongside them. ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Training-pink.png) ### Training **Setting:** - ·Foster and adoptive parent training - Caseworker continuing education (CEUs) **Purpose:** **LEANING IN:**  A single-session training with facilitator-led discussion that **equips** caregivers and child welfare professionals with practical insights to better understand and support vulnerable children. ## Organization package includes: - **Streaming access to the IZIDOR film via browser for use with your organization. You may stream the film as many times as you want during the license period.** - **Discussion and participant guides in pdf format for download.** - **Marketing tools.** _Once purchased, the organization package provides access for the term of the package._ _The license allows the organization to host multiple group screenings during the license duration._ _The streaming link is for group use only and may not be shared for individual home viewing._ [Request package information](https://izidorstory.com/organization-form/) --- --- title: "Education" url: "https://izidorstory.com/groups/education/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Bring Learning to Life Students can learn concepts from a textbook or lecture. IZIDOR gives them the opportunity to see those concepts lived out through a powerful human story. The film becomes a real-world case study, bringing academic concepts into" last_modified: "2026-10-20T16:36:00+00:00" --- # Education ![IZIDOR Education package icon](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/education-package1-wh.webp) # Bring Learning to Life Students can learn concepts from a textbook or lecture. _IZIDOR_ gives them the opportunity to see those concepts lived out through a powerful human story. The film becomes a real-world case study, bringing academic concepts into focus through one child’s experience. A multi-session curriculum guides students deeper into the story, helping them examine what they’ve seen through the lens of their coursework, engage in meaningful discussion, and connect what they’ve learned to their future professional practice. **The result is learning that goes beyond understanding concepts — students explore their human impact and consider what** **they can do with what they’ve learned.** ![IZIDOR education film + curriculum](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/education-curriculum.png) ## Education ### **Setting:** - University classes - High school classes - University panel discussions ### **Purpose:** **ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENT:** A flexible 5-module curriculum designed to help professors and teachers integrate _IZIDOR_ into their coursework. Modules may be used as presented or adapted into existing course material to meet the needs of individual classes and students. The **Psychology** Curriculum is available now, with **Sociology** and **History** versions coming soon. ## Education package includes: - **Streaming access to the _IZIDOR_ film via browser for use with your educational institution. Streaming is available as either a one-time viewing or unlimited access during the license period.** - **Discussion and participant guides in pdf format for download.** - **Marketing tools.** _Access is provided according to the license option purchased: one-time streaming or unlimited streaming during the license period._ _Streaming access is for educational group use only and may not be shared with students or others for individual home viewing._ [Request package information](https://izidorstory.com/education-interest-form/) --- --- title: "IZIDOR’s Big Summer 2025" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "IZIDOR moves audiences around the world to tears, laughter, and most importantly - action." last_modified: "2026-10-22T20:30:28+00:00" categories: [Press releases, Recommended, Short Film] custom_fields: ast-featured-img: "disabled" --- # IZIDOR’s Big Summer 2025 ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sunlight-laurels1-1500x791.jpg) ### **FILM FESTIVAL SCREENINGS** _IZIDOR_, the powerful short film inspired by true events, has been officially selected for six film festivals to date, including the prestigious **Oscar®-qualifying Cleveland International Film Festival**. “We are honored by the recognition and deeply moved to see how _IZIDOR_ continues to resonate with audiences across the country,” said Sarah Padbury, writer and producer of _IZIDOR_. “This story of resilience and belonging is sparking the conversations we hoped it would.” ![Izidor Ruckel (producer) and Sarah Padbury (writer/producer) at the Cleveland International Film Festival](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IzidorSarah-at-CIFF-1500x844.jpg)Izidor Ruckel (producer) and Sarah Padbury (writer/producer) at the Cleveland International Film Festival ### **ROMANIA 3-WEEK TOUR** In June 2025, _IZIDOR_ returned to Romania, where Sarah, Izidor, and director/producer David Kabbe hosted **11 private screenings across four cities—Cluj, Bucharest, Timișoara, and Sighetu Marmației**. Each event featured a Q&A with the filmmakers, sparking heartfelt conversations around Romania’s history and the lasting impact of its orphanage system. The response was powerful. We held screenings in a high school for the deaf, a county library, a retreat center, a special needs art program, churches, and multiple theaters. Educators and students, government officials and community advocates expressed strong interest in bringing the film into **universities and high schools** as a meaningful tool for teaching and reflection, especially in psychology and history programs. - [![High School Youth](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/4E92EAF7-E36A-4C3E-BBE0-A8C9BCC8CCC6_1_105_c.webp) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/4E92EAF7-E36A-4C3E-BBE0-A8C9BCC8CCC6_1_105_c.webp) - [![IZIDOR screening in theater](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0948-e1757888256600.jpeg-1500x1115.webp) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0948-e1757888256600.jpeg.webp) - [![IZIDOR screening in theater](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_8891-1500x1125.webp) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_8891.webp) - [![Showing IZIDOR in a church](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_9047-1500x1125.webp) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_9047.webp) - [![IZIDOR screening at county library](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_8921-1500x1125.webp) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_8921.webp) - [![Retreat Center](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_9633-1500x1125.jpeg) ](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_9633.jpeg) ### PRESS AND PEOPLE For complete media coverage and professional movie reviews, click **[here](https://izidorstory.com/news/).** ![Izidor being interviewed on video](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/att.IteYeYa_eRKwmCXRH5bZxIwJ5_I2tCn8rKcoGUIhRoY-e1757890536832-1500x826.jpg)Izidor shared about the film in several Romanian press interviews. ![Izidor speaking to special needs art students](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_9022-1500x844.webp)Izidor speaking to special needs art students ![Dave and Sarah meet with the film's child actors - now grown up!](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0969-e1757892096386-1500x841.jpeg)Dave and Sarah meet with the film’s child actors – now grown up! ![Filmmakers sitting on stage for post-screening talk](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Post-screening-talk-1500x844.jpg)One of several post-film discussions. ## WHAT’S NEXT ### THE IZIDOR COLLECTION The IZIDOR Collection equips child advocates with access to the film _IZIDOR_ and a range of **curated discussion guides**. These resources help organizations adapt the experience to their mission, sparking meaningful dialogue and inspiring action. ![Graphic of 4 types of partnerships](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/types-of-partnerships-1500x445.png) **More information coming soon on available discussion guides!** ## WHEN CAN I SEE IT? **IN-PERSON Private Screenings:** Available for **organizations/groups** by contacting Exec. Producer Sarah Padbury (Sarah@IzidorStory.com). ** MOVIE PREMIERE: Public screenings** to be available in 2026 (after the festival circuit). --- --- title: "Izidor Limited Series" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-limited-series/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "A disabled orphan escapes a hellish Romanian orphanage through adoption, only to grow up and discover he still isn’t free. LIMITED SERIES: Watch this 5-minute clip of Izidor revealing why post-Communist Romania had so many abandoned children and Izidor's goals for" last_modified: "2026-02-06T22:36:07+00:00" --- # Izidor Limited Series ![Izidor limited series poster](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Izidor-16x9-1-1500x844.jpg) _A disabled orphan escapes a hellish Romanian orphanage through adoption, only to grow up and discover he still isn’t free._ LIMITED SERIES: Watch this 5-minute clip of Izidor revealing why post-Communist Romania had so many abandoned children and Izidor’s goals for the limited series. _*This video contains images that some viewers may find disturbing. Viewer discretion advised.*_ # _IZIDOR_ Limited Series _IZIDOR_ (the limited series) is a coming-of-age, dramatic limited series that follows a disabled orphan’s struggle to escape his tortuous past and prove he is human and valuable, a “real” boy. His Pinocchio-like journey begins when Western media uncovers a secret long veiled by the Iron Curtain. ## History For twenty-four years, Romania’s dictator Nicolae Ceausescu pressured families to have at least five children in order to build his army. The fallout for tens of thousands of abandoned children was imprisonment, torture, and death in hidden government asylums. Thousands of “Ceausescu’s children” escaped across the globe as adoption skyrocketed en masse worldwide. IZIDOR mirrors the story of millions of families, including the painful consequences they never imagined. Set in the 1990’s in Romania and San Diego, IZIDOR follows the true story of what happened to 10-year-old Izidor and his orphan friends during the Collapse of Communism: some saved through international adoption and others left behind. ## Animation and live action The appalling conditions that warehoused these children were too brutal to reenact with child actors. Thus, the series depicts the orphanage scenes with a dramatic style of animation. This artistic choice allows the audience to experience an emotional connection to the physical and psychological anguish they endured, and also entrenches them with the orphans on their path through the series to truth and self-discovery. On screen for the very first time, the story of Romania’s abandoned children sheds light on the global issues of orphan discrimination and human rights. The story also highlights the people who navigated uncharted territory, risking their lives and livelihood to help the children escape and heal. The limited series is already written and we are looking for production partners. **[Contact us](https://izidorstory.com/request-access/)** for the series‘ show bible and more. --- --- title: "Meet Izidor" url: "https://izidorstory.com/meet-izidor/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "About Izidor Set in 1988, IZIDOR is inspired by the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Abandoned as a baby after contracting polio, he grew up in one of Romania’s notorious state-run orphanages. These institutions, products of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s communist regime," last_modified: "2026-04-28T21:11:05+00:00" --- # Meet Izidor # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Set in 1988, _IZIDOR_ is inspired by the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Abandoned as a baby after contracting polio, he grew up in one of Romania’s notorious state-run orphanages. These institutions, products of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s communist regime, warehoused tens of thousands of children in bleak conditions, hidden from the world. Izidor’s story reveals both the devastating toll of systemic neglect and the transformative power of a single act of courageous kindness. His day outside the orphanage with Onisa and her family — brought to life in the film — became a personal turning point and a window into the struggles vulnerable children face everywhere. After the 1989 Romanian Revolution, Western journalists exposed the once-secret plight of these institutionalized children, sparking a wave of international adoptions. In 1991, at age eleven, Izidor was adopted by a family in the United States. He went on to become an outspoken advocate for orphans and people with disabilities, changing hearts and inspiring better care for at-risk children worldwide. To learn more about Izidor and his orphan advocacy work, visit [IzidorRuckel.com](https://izidorruckel.com). “I  share  my  story  so  that  other  orphans,  adoptees,  and  their  families  can  know  that  they  are  not  alone  in  what  they’ve  gone  through. I  may  not  be  able  to  save  the  world,  but  if  I  can  help  one  life  at  a  time, it’s  worth  it.” — Izidor --- --- title: "Need help?" url: "https://izidorstory.com/need-help/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Need help? If You’re Hurting, You’re Not Alone If Izidor’s story stirred up painful memories or left you feeling overwhelmed, please know this: you are not alone. Many people carry hidden wounds from childhood experiences, separation, loss, or trauma. If" last_modified: "2026-10-20T16:04:01+00:00" --- # Need help? # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## **If You’re Hurting, You’re Not Alone** If Izidor’s story stirred up painful memories or left you feeling overwhelmed, please know this: you are not alone. Many people carry hidden wounds from childhood experiences, separation, loss, or trauma. If Izidor’s story brought some of those feelings to the surface, it’s okay to reach out for help. Healing can begin with the simple step of talking to someone you trust. If you are in crisis, **please don’t stay silent. Call someone now.** - _**Suicidal thoughts or crisis:** _Call or text **988** (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) for immediate support in the U.S. - _**International Hotlines**:_ [Click to find a hotline in your country](https://findahelpline.com/)[.](https://findahelpline.com/) - _**Domestic abuse or unsafe situations:**_ Call **800-799-SAFE (7233)** (National Domestic Violence Hotline). - _**Child abuse concerns:** _Call or text “GO” to **ChildHelp at 800-422-4453**. - [Support Resources](#supportresources) - [Books & Podcasts for Healing](#bookspodcasts) ## Support Resources Explore these resources for professional counseling, encouragement, and community support. While we may not agree with every perspective or approach, we hope you’ll find the support that best meets your needs. ### Professional Counseling - **[Psychology Today Therapist Finder](https://psychologytoday.com/us/therapists)** | Directory of mental health professionals - **[BetterHelp](https://betterhelp.com)** | Online therapy with licensed professionals - **[EMDR International Association](https://emdria.org/find-a-therapist)** | Find therapists specializing in EMDR trauma therapy ### Faith-Based Support - **[Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO)](https://cafo.org)** | Resources, encouragement, and community for caregivers - [**Celebrate Recovery** ](https://celebraterecovery.com) | Christ-centered 12-step program for healing from hurts, habits, and hang-ups ### Encouragement & Community - [**National Foster Parent Association (NFPA)**](https://nfpaonline.org/about/) | Resources and connections for foster and adoptive families - **Adoptee & Foster Care Support Groups** | Find local groups through Facebook, Meetup, or an AI search tool ### Adoption & Trauma Support - **[Attachment & Trauma Network (ATN)](https://attachmenttraumanetwork.org/)** | Resources, support, and training for those affected by trauma and attachment issues - [**Center for Adoption Support and Education (CASE)** ](https://adoptionsupport.org/)| Counseling resources and support groups for adoptees and adoptive families ## Books & Podcasts for Healing - _[**The Body Keeps the Score_** ](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+body+keeps+the+score)by Bessel van der Kolk, MD Examines how trauma affects the brain and body and presents pathways toward healing. - _[**The Deepest Well_** ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/132850266X/?bestFormat=true&k=the%20deepest%20well&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-bk-v2_k0_1_16_de&crid=3J6OFPL0MA70H&sprefix=the%20deepest%20well)by Nadine Burke Harris, MD Reveals how childhood adversity affects long-term health and resilience. - _[**The Connected Child_** ](https://www.amazon.com/Connected-Child-healing-adoptive-family/dp/0071475001/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37AG0M50JI2B3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.laBfaD63OL9vJlZluRriQ0Vj-hvxHn57niM6OCmuXGOblpXT0gNx7lVCJX_l7jzZkXVduTD--3Ck-XKWoQjEKswOyq488hlJ_OydXfvT9ewGo4gurGKM_Beuwj25evCvPj1OvXXP8-OR4LzdWIugwM_yXIC3oLYd1k-S6bkz1qb8nIq9DGKXEwLOlM6aT7jH7rPdr7S9bhos6hbuHA1hRk9oufp2n8mc_ox3YKGDFWQ.9_ztW7-uO4Pt84THxmXagkiyst8jsdqR5vC0va83MZo&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+connected+child&qid=1792179344&s=books&sprefix=the+connected+child%2Cstripbooks%2C178&sr=1-1)by Karyn Purvis, David Cross, and Wendy Lyons Sunshine Offers practical guidance for adoptive and foster families. - [**_The Place We Find Ourselves _(Podcast)** ](https://theplacewefindourselves.libsyn.com/#)_by Adam Young_ Discussions exploring trauma, attachment, and healing from a Christian perspective. - [**_The Allender Center Podcast_** ](https://theallendercenter.org/category/podcast/) Conversations about trauma, healing, faith, and the power of personal stories. _These books and podcasts are offered as additional resources for exploring trauma and healing. Izidor Story does not necessarily endorse all views expressed by their authors or hosts._ --- --- title: "Take action" url: "https://izidorstory.com/take-action/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Take action You’ve seen the story. Now you can be part of the change. Vulnerable children need safe homes, strong support, and caring adults willing to stand with them. There are many ways to make a difference: helping families in" last_modified: "2026-10-20T16:06:55+00:00" --- # Take action # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## You’ve seen the story. Now you can be part of the change. Vulnerable children need safe homes, strong support, and caring adults willing to stand with them. There are many ways to make a difference: helping families in crisis stay together, fostering or adopting, supporting those who open their homes, or offering your time, talents or money to meet practical needs. On this page, you’ll discover opportunities to take meaningful steps of compassion and service. - [Support Engagement](#supportengagement) - [U.S. Foster Care Engagement](#fosterengagement) - [Adoption Engagement](#adoptionengagement) - [Film Engagement](#filmengagement) - [Self-Starter](#selfstarter) - [AI to find local support](#findlocal) ## Support Engagement ### **Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)** Trains volunteers to advocate for children in foster care, ensuring their voices are heard and their best interests represented in court. [CASA website](https://nationalcasagal.org/advocate-for-children/be-a-casa-gal-volunteer/) ### CarePortal Connects child welfare agencies with local churches and community members to meet urgent needs, strengthen families, and support vulnerable children. [CarePortal ](https://www.careportal.org)[website](https://www.careportal.org) ### Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO) Equips churches, organizations, and individuals with resources, training, and partnerships to serve vulnerable children through foster care, adoption, and global initiatives. [CAFO ](https://cafo.org)[website](https://cafo.org) ## U.S. Foster Care Engagement ### **National Foster Care & Adoption Directory (NFCAD)** Provides contact information for foster care and adoption agencies, organizations, and services across the United States. [NFCAD directory](https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/states-territories-tribes/nfcad/) ### **National Foster Parent Association (NFPA) ** Provides education, resources, and advocacy for foster, kinship, and adoptive families across the United States. [NFPA website](https://nfpaonline.org/about) ### **AdoptUSKids** Provides a national database of children in foster care awaiting adoption, along with information and resources for prospective foster and adoptive families. [AdoptUSKids website](https://adoptuskids.org/) ### **More Than Enough** Equips churches and communities with resources, training, and partnerships to strengthen support for children and families involved in foster care. An initiative of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO). [More Than Enough website](https://cafo.org/morethanenough/) ### **Project 1.**[**27**](https://project127.org/) Recruits, trains, and supports foster, kinship, and adoptive families while equipping churches to serve vulnerable children through a nationwide network of partner organizations. [Project 1.27 website](https://www.project127.org) ## Adoption Engagement ### **National Council for Adoption (NCFA)** Provides a national directory of adoption agencies and professionals offering home studies, placement services, birth parent support, legal assistance, and post-adoption services.  [National Council for Adoption website](https://adoptioncouncil.org/directory/) ### **CCAI Adoption Services** A Hague-accredited adoption agency providing international and domestic adoption services, home studies, and post-adoption support. International adoption programs include **Belize, Bulgaria, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Taiwan, and Ukraine.**  [CCAI website](https://ccaifamily.org) ### **ShowHope** Provides private adoption aid grants, medical care grants for children with complex needs, and educational resources to support healing and attachment in adoptive families. [ShowHope website](https://showhope.org) ## Film Engagement ### **Video your reactio**[**n**](https://directory.iaame.net/ords/r/iaame/asp-directory/search) Send us a 30-60 second video of your reaction to the _IZIDOR_ for us to feature on social media. [Contact us](https://izidorstory.com/contact/) ### **Host a screening** Bring _IZIDOR_ to your community by sponsoring a screening. [Group license packages](https://izidorstory.com/groups/) ### **Rent _IZIDOR_** Rent _IZIDOR_ and invite family and friends to a viewing party. [Rent the film](https://izidorstory.com/individual/) ## Self-Starter Commission You don’t have to wait for someone else’s program—you can begin right where you are. Gather friends, family, or your faith community and create your own initiative. Host a fundraiser to meet specific needs, organize meal trains for foster families, volunteer at a children’s shelter, mentor teens aging out of foster care, or start a support group. The possibilities are as wide as your imagination.    Ask yourself: _What are the greatest needs in my community? Where are the gaps in care for vulnerable children? And where do my gifts and passions meet those needs?_  **That’s where your unique calling begins.** ## Use AI to help find local opportunities Not sure where to start? ChatGPT or another AI search tool can help you discover organizations serving vulnerable children and families in your area.   Copy one of the sample prompts, replace the location with your city, county, or state, and explore the results   Tip: If you don’t find what you’re looking for, try expanding your search area or asking a more specific question. _Note: Always verify AI-generated information directly with the organization._ **Sample prompts:** - _What organizations in [your city] support children and families through foster care, adoption, or other services? Give a brief description of each._ - _What organizations in [your state] serve vulnerable children internationally? Briefly describe their work._ - _What churches or faith-based organizations in [your city, state] support foster care, adoption or vulnerable families?_ Give a brief description of each. --- --- title: "Using the Izidor film in your Church" url: "https://izidorstory.com/groups/churches/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "From Compassion to Action Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children is a biblical calling. But knowing the call and knowing how to respond are two different things. IZIDOR gives that calling a face and a story. Through one family’s courageous act" last_modified: "2026-10-20T19:37:11+00:00" --- # Using the Izidor film in your Church ![IZIDOR church package graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/church-package-wh-1.webp) # **From Compassion to Action** Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children is a biblical calling. But knowing the call and knowing how to respond are two different things. _IZIDOR_ gives that calling a face and a story. Through one family’s courageous act of kindness, the film invites Christians to consider what it looks like to step into the life of a vulnerable child with love, faith, and hope. Guided discussion then helps your congregation connect the story to Scripture, explore practical ways to respond, and discover how they can make a difference in their own community and beyond. **The film doesn’t end when the credits roll. It’s where the conversation – and the opportunity for action – begins.** ## ONE EVENT. LASTING IMPACT. Looking for creative inspiration to draw people into your mission—or to launch something new?** This is it!** ### **OUR GIFT TO YOU** This film wasn’t created for us to keep, but for you to use. It’s a modern parable of belonging and hope—designed to point toward what God can do through _your church_ and _your community_. Pair it with your own initiative, and make the story complete in the way only you can. ## **Discussion guide options** **_Resources that inspire: Connection. Action. Change._** Each discussion guide is designed to be simple, flexible, and impactful. They can be used **as-is**—no expertise required—or easily tailored to fit your audience. ![Izidor Event in a Box - film + resources graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/LOGO-Event-in-a-box.png) ### Event-in-a-box **Setting:** - Church service or other large gatherings with attendees broken into small groups - Home/Community groups - Sunday School **Purpose:** **MOVE TO ACTION: **Inspire and transform your congregation around the Church’s call to care for vulnerable children and families: - **Align with key observances** such as Pure Religion Sunday, National Foster Care Month, National Adoption Month, and World Children’s Day - **Engage new volunteers** to strengthen your ongoing ministry with children and families - **Launch new initiatives or partnerships** that extend your ministry’s impact - **Recruit foster, adoptive, and support families** to meet real community needs - **Spark fundraising** to sustain orphan care and related ministries - **Incorporate into sermons or guest speaker messages** inspire compassion and reflection ## Church package includes: - **Streaming access to the _IZIDOR_ film via browser for use with your church and church groups. You may stream the film as many times as you want during the license period.** - **Discussion and participant guides in pdf format for download.** - **Marketing tools.** _Once purchased, the church package provides access for 14 days._ _The license allows the church to host multiple group screenings during the license duration._ _The streaming link is for group use only and may not be shared for individual home viewing._ ## Church package tiers Select tier based your congregation size. **_Introductory pricing for a limited time only_** **We’re making _IZIDOR_ accessible to as many churches as possible, as quickly as possible — and we’ll follow up with you afterward to hear how the film sparked impact in your community.** ### Home church Licensing fee: $30.00 [Buy now](https://film.izidorstory.com/checkout/?pmpro_level=2) ### Up to 100 people Licensing fee: $100.00 [Buy now](https://film.izidorstory.com/checkout/?pmpro_level=4) ### 101-500 people Licensing fee: $250.00 [Buy now](https://film.izidorstory.com/checkout/?pmpro_level=5) ### 501-1000 people Licensing fee: $400.00 [Buy now](https://film.izidorstory.com/checkout/?pmpro_level=6) ### 1001-2000 people Licensing fee: $650.00 [Buy now](https://film.izidorstory.com/checkout/?pmpro_level=7) ### 2000+ Contact us for pricing [Contact us](https://izidorstory.com/church-form/) [Questions about which package is right for your church? Contact us here.](https://izidorstory.com/contact/) ## **Frequently Asked Questions** ### How long does the license last? Your license is valid for **2 weeks** from when you purchase the package. During this time, your church may host multiple screenings. ### What counts as a “church screening”? A church screening includes any showing held as part of your church’s official ministry—such as Sunday services, small groups, youth events, or special gatherings on church property. ### Can members watch the film at home? No. This license covers **church events only**. For personal or home use, members can access the film separately through our individual rental option. ### How do we show the film? Your package includes access to a web page containing the film and guides. The film will play (stream) from that page, either in a window on the page or full screen mode. By connecting your computer to a projector or large screen TV you can easily show the film to a group or the entire congregation. We recommend testing your equipment setup prior to the screening to ensure everything is working and that your internet connection is stable and fast enough to stream the video without hiccups. ### What equipment do we need? A computer with a modern web browser connected to a projector or large screen TV. Speakers/audio system for sound. Reliable internet connection (please test in your location prior to the screening to ensure video streams without stuttering). ### Can we advertise the screening publicly? Yes, you may promote the screening to your community and on church platforms. However, the film may not be redistributed online or broadcast publicly. ### How much does it cost? Pricing is based on **church size**. See the pricing chart above for details. ### Can we charge admission or collect donations? Admission fees are not permitted. However, you may take up a **general offering** or invite donations to support your church’s ministry or a related cause. ### Do we need separate permission for multiple campuses? Yes. Each church campus or physical location needs its **own license**. ### Are study or discussion guides included? Yes. You’ll have full access to our **discussion guides** to help spark conversation and reflection. Download and print as needed. ### Are marketing tools provided? Yes. We provide **flyers, social media graphics, and promotional templates** to make inviting your community easy. ### The video isn’t playing — what should we do? - Check your internet connection. - Try refreshing your browser. - Clear cache or try a different browser. - [Contact our support](https://izidorstory.com/contact/) ### Can we download the film? No. The film is for streaming only and not downloadable. ### Is our payment secure? Yes — all transactions are processed securely through our payment processor Stripe. ### Is the film suitable for all ages? Contains mild language and disturbing images; recommended for ages 12+. ### How can we contact you if we have issues? Please use our [contact form](https://izidorstory.com/contact/). --- --- title: "Group viewing" url: "https://izidorstory.com/groups/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Group licensing IZIDOR: A Transformative 30-minute Film Every IZIDOR experience begins with a shared viewing of the film, followed by a guided discussion.   The story opens the door to understanding, while deeper conversation helps participants connect what they’ve seen" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:40:00+00:00" --- # Group viewing # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Organization-pkg-white-transparent.png) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Church-pkg-white-transparent.png) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Child-Wefare-pkg-white-transparent.png) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Education-pkg-white-transparent.png) ## **_IZIDOR_: A Transformative 30-minute Film** Every _IZIDOR_ experience begins with a shared viewing of the film, followed by a guided discussion.   The story opens the door to understanding, while deeper conversation helps participants connect what they’ve seen to their own lives, work, and communities. While every Film Package centers on the same story, each explores different themes, questions, and practical applications based on your audience and goals. Some packages are ideal for a single event, while others unfold over multiple classroom or discussion sessions. All are designed to move participants from reflection to meaningful action. [Jump to film packages](#packages) ## **Event-in-a-Box** ### _**Your complete toolkit to host a transformational 90-minute event**_ Event-in-a-Box Film Packages include the _IZIDOR_ film, audience-specific discussion guides, and promotional materials. Simply choose your package, watch the film, review your facilitator guide, and invite your audience. We’ve done the groundwork so you can lead with confidence. _Inside your toolkit: _ - Streaming access to the _IZIDOR_ film - Facilitator and participant guides tailored for your audience - Marketing tools **Option:** Invite an _IZIDOR_ producer to join your discussion. [Contact us](https://izidorstory.com/contact/) to find out more. ## **Select your audience to explore available Film Packages**: ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Organization-package.png) ### Organization Nonprofits and corporate partners building impact through events and conversations.**** [Get the details](https://izidorstory.com/groups/organization/) ![IZIDOR church package graphic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Church-package.png) ### Church A springboard to grow or launch your ministry to vulnerable children and families. [See package](https://izidorstory.com/host-screening/churches/) ![IZIDOR child welfare agency package](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Child-Welfare-Package.png) ### Child Welfare A shared resource to equip caseworkers, caregivers, and support groups. [Get the details](https://izidorstory.com/groups/child-welfare/) ![IZIDOR education package](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Education-package.png) ### Education Teach with _IZIDOR:_ 5-Module curriculum for universities and high schools. [Get the details](https://izidorstory.com/host-screening/education/) ## **Discussion Guides and Resources** Each Film Package includes discussion guides designed to spark meaningful conversations in a variety of settings.  Select a package above to view complete package details. --- --- title: "Individual rental" url: "https://izidorstory.com/individual/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Individual rental Coming in 2026 The release date for Izidor for individual rental is still pending. To be the first to know when a date is set, be sure to sign up here to get our email updates:" last_modified: "2025-09-26T15:21:46+00:00" --- # Individual rental # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## Coming in 2026 The release date for Izidor for individual rental is still pending. **_To be the first to know when a date is set, be sure to sign up here to get our email updates_:** [Yes, sign me up](#emailsignup1) --- --- title: "Watch now" url: "https://izidorstory.com/watch-now/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Watch now Individual rental Stream IZIDOR for watching at home or on the go. Incorporate IZIDOR in your organization’s work Packages for using IZIDOR in organizations, child welfare agencies, churches, and education. Packages include film streaming and downloadable discussion guides." last_modified: "2025-09-30T19:03:05+00:00" --- # Watch now # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## Individual rental Stream _IZIDOR_ for watching at home or on the go. [Individual rental](https://izidorstory.com/individual/) ## Incorporate _IZIDOR_ in your organization’s work Packages for using _IZIDOR_ in organizations, child welfare agencies, churches, and education. Packages include film streaming and downloadable discussion guides. [Group licensing](https://izidorstory.com/groups/) --- --- title: "Login Designer" url: "https://izidorstory.com/login-designer/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "This page is used by Login Designer to preview the login form in the Customizer." last_modified: "2025-06-26T20:51:47+00:00" --- # Login Designer This page is used by Login Designer to preview the login form in the Customizer. --- --- title: "DMovies: Witness Romania through the eye of an orphaned child" url: "https://izidorstory.com/dirty-movies-dmovies-witness-romania-through-the-eye-of-an-orphaned-child/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "DMovies talks with director David Kabbe about the real meaning of resilience, recording sound at an elementary school, and more..." last_modified: "2025-09-26T22:45:58+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, movie review, romania, short film] --- # DMovies: Witness Romania through the eye of an orphaned child _DMovies_ is an online platform that seeks to celebrate convention-disruptive cinema. Reporter Eoghan Lyng talks with director David Kabe about “emotionally accessible” animation, the real meaning of resilience, recording sound at an elementary school, and a “mini-miracle” called Iosua Barbu. Read the interview [**here**](https://dmovies.org/2025/06/04/our-dirty-questions-to-david-kabbe/). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: Iosua Barbu is a marvel in the role of Izidor" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-iosua-barbu-is-a-marvel-in-the-role-of-izidor/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "DMovies says IZIDOR is a movie that reminds adults of their inner child." last_modified: "2025-12-20T20:33:05+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, movie review, orphan, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: Iosua Barbu is a marvel in the role of Izidor _DMovies_ is an online platform that seeks to celebrate and examine cinema that disrupts conventions, provokes thought, and leaves a lasting emotional impact. Their take on IZIDOR fits the bill with a 4.5/5 rating! Read the review [**here**](https://dmovies.org/2025/06/04/izidor/). --- --- title: "Film Daily: Hope wins" url: "https://izidorstory.com/film-daily-hope-wins/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Film Daily interviews director David Kabbe on the power of courageous kindness." last_modified: "2025-05-30T00:24:17+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, romania, short film] --- # Film Daily: Hope wins _Film Daily _is an entertainment news magazine. Frankie Stein interviews David Kabbe about the power of courageous kindness. Read the interview [**here**](https://filmdaily.co/indie-film/hope-wins-david-kabbe-on-izidor-and-the-power-of-courageous-kindness/). --- --- title: "Indie Wrap: Some films don’t just entertain — they move us." url: "https://izidorstory.com/indie-wrap-some-films-dont-just-entertain-they-move-us/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Indie Wrap asks director David Kabbe and writer/producer/actress Sarah Padbury what brought each of them to tell Izidor's story." last_modified: "2025-05-28T23:57:24+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film] tags: [interview, Izidor, orphan, romania, short film] --- # Indie Wrap: Some films don’t just entertain — they move us. _Indie Wrap _is an independent film magazine. This interview presents director David Kabbe and writer/producer/actress Sarah Padbury discussing what brought each of them to tell Izidor’s story. Read the interview [**here**](https://indiewrapmag.com/interviews/interview-with-director-david-kabbe-and-producer-writer-and-actress-sarah-padbury/). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: A fairy tale in the modern age" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-fairy-tale-in-the-modern-age/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Movie Blogger film critic Federico Furzan reviews IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-05-26T23:32:23+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] tags: [movie review, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: A fairy tale in the modern age _Movie Blogger_ film critic Federico Furzan reviews _IZIDOR_. “…a beautiful short film where Izidor finds the light of knowledge, hope and kindness with the help of that angel.” Read the review [**here**](https://www.movie-blogger.com/izidor-2025-short-film-review/). --- --- title: "Film Fugitives: Director David Kabbe on Romania’s sordid history" url: "https://izidorstory.com/film-fugitives-director-david-kabbe-on-romanias-sordid-history/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Film Fugitives movie critic Pramit Chatterjee interviews David Kabbe about working with child actors, animation and the real meaning of the movie IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-05-03T22:48:54+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] --- # Film Fugitives: Director David Kabbe on Romania’s sordid history _Film Fugitives _movie critic Pramit Chatterjee interviews David Kabbe about Romania’s history, working with child actors, the use of animation, and the real meaning of the movie. Read the interview [**here**](https://fugitives.com/interview-izidor-director-david-kabbe-2025/). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: A stunning depiction of one child’s shot at escaping state-inflicted shame" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-stunning-depiction-of-one-childs-shot-at-escaping-state-inflicted-shame-and-isolation/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Rotten Tomatoes accredited global critic Ronak Kotecha reviews IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-04-30T23:12:55+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] tags: [film review, Izidor, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: A stunning depiction of one child’s shot at escaping state-inflicted shame Rotten Tomatoes accredited global critic Ronak Kotecha reviews _IZIDOR_. “Thanks to some scintillating camerawork, the audience gets to experience the marvel of Onisa’s little town through the eyes of her astonished little guest…” Read the review [**here**](https://reviewron.ae/A-Review-of-Izidor-A-stunning-depiction-of-one-childs-shot-at-escaping-state-inflicted-shame-and-isolation). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: A whisper from the shadows of history" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-whisper-from-the-shadows-of-history/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "GHMovie Freak film critic reviews IZIDOR, giving it a 5/5 star review! \"IZIDOR uncovers a forgotten injustice...\"" last_modified: "2025-12-05T17:37:07+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: A whisper from the shadows of history _GHMovie Freak_ film critic Tony Asankomah reviews _IZIDOR_, giving it a **5/5 star review**. “_IZIDOR_ uncovers a forgotten injustice….it is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to at least try to make a difference. Even if it’s in the life of just one person.” Read the review [**here**](https://ghmoviefreak.com/short-film-review-izidor-a-whisper-from-the-shadows-of-history/). --- --- title: "Bond on Cinema: What happens when Izidor experiences family for the first time?" url: "https://izidorstory.com/bond-on-cinema-what-happens-when-izidor-experiences-family-for-the-first-time/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "YouTube film critic Ward Bond hosts an in-depth interview with David Kabbe and Sarah Padbury." last_modified: "2025-04-21T22:18:00+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film] --- # Bond on Cinema: What happens when Izidor experiences family for the first time? The “Bond on Cinema” YouTube Channel is an eclectic collection of in-depth long form interviews with filmmakers from around the world. Host Ward Bond interviews Director David Kabbe and Writer/Producer/Actress Sarah Padbury in their first comprehensive interview about the short film, IZIDOR. “…[Izidor] can now tough the dream he could only see from the window…” – Ward Bond Watch the interview [**here**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poyYhyVPPF8). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: Get That Movie" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-get-that-movie/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Get That Movie film critic and YouTuber Ale Turdo reviews IZIDOR, giving it a 9/10 star review..." last_modified: "2025-04-10T21:21:34+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, movie review, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: Get That Movie _Get That Movie_ film critic and YouTuber Ale Turdo reviews _IZIDOR_, giving it a **9/10 star review**. “IZIDOR’s blend of animation and live action results in a moving depiction of a real life story that represents vulnerable children everywhere, while teaching us that one small act of kindness can change everything.” Watch the YouTube review [**here**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXtmWDuFq6g). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review:  A Tender Glimpse into a Hidden Past" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-tender-glimpse-into-a-hidden-past/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Scene for Scene film critic Reina K gives IZIDOR a 4.5-star review. \"In just under thirty minutes, IZIDOR manages to stir the soul, break your heart, and gently piece it back together again...\"" last_modified: "2025-04-05T17:24:11+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [film review, Izidor, kindness, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review:  A Tender Glimpse into a Hidden Past _Scene for Scene_ film critic Reina K gives _IZIDOR_ a **4.5-star review**. “In just under thirty minutes, IZIDOR manages to stir the soul, break your heart, and gently piece it back together again…” Read the review [**here**](https://sceneforscene.com/izidor-a-tender-glimpse-into-a-hidden-past/). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: A Short Film That Hits Like a Sledgehammer" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-a-short-film-that-hits-like-a-sledgehammer/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Action Reloaded film critic Jeff Turner gives IZIDOR a 5-star review, calling it \"unmissable\"!" last_modified: "2025-04-05T13:51:26+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, izidorstory, movie review, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: A Short Film That Hits Like a Sledgehammer _Action Reloaded_ film critic Jeff Turner gives _IZIDOR_ a **5-star reveiw**, calling it “unmissable”! Read the review [**here**](https://www.actionreloaded.com/izidor-a-short-film-that-hits-like-a-sledgehammer/). --- --- title: "‘izidor’ Review: An artfully sincere homage to survivors" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-review-an-artfully-sincere-homage-to-survivors/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Cinemacy founder and film critic Morgan Rojas reviews IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-03-28T13:27:05+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [movie review, orphan, romania, short film] --- # ‘izidor’ Review: An artfully sincere homage to survivors _Cinemacy_ founder and film critic Morgan Rojas reviews _IZIDOR_. Read the review [**here**](https://cinemacy.com/izidor-review/). --- --- title: "Authority Magazine: Things I wish someone told me" url: "https://izidorstory.com/authority-magazine-sarah-padbury-of-izidor-story-things-i-wish-someone-told-me-when-i-first-became-a-filmmaker/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Authority Magazine interviews writer/producer Sarah Padbury about her journey from advocating for children through adoption to writing and producing the film IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-03-14T19:03:29+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [Izidor, orphan, romania, sarah padbury, short film] --- # Authority Magazine: Things I wish someone told me _Authority Magazine_ is an online publication that focuses on showcasing thought leaders who are making a significant impact. In this interview, writer/producer Sarah Padbury reflects on her journey from advocating for children through adoption to writing and producing the film _IZIDOR_. Read the interview [**here**](https://medium.com/authority-magazine/sarah-padbury-of-izidor-story-5-things-i-wish-someone-told-me-when-i-first-became-a-filmmaker-f747a6861a20). --- --- title: "Grit Daily: Conversation with Indie Filmmaker David Kabbe" url: "https://izidorstory.com/grit-daily-conversation-with-indie-filmmaker-david-kabbe-izidor-film/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Grit Daily interviews director David Kabbe about the struggle to secure funding for independent films and the use of AI to augment animation." last_modified: "2025-03-05T06:12:21+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [director, Izidor, orphan, romania, short film] --- # Grit Daily: Conversation with Indie Filmmaker David Kabbe _Grit Daily,_ a digital news platform that focuses on startup culture, interviews IZIDOR director David Kabbe about the struggle to secure funding for independent films and the use of AI to augment animation. Read the interview [**here**](https://gritdaily.com/conversation-indie-filmmaker-david-kabbe-izidor-film/). --- --- title: "Romania Insider: From hopelessness to hope" url: "https://izidorstory.com/romania-insider-a-romanian-orphanage-survivors-path-to-healing-in-izidor-a-short-film/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Romania Insider interviews producer Izidor Ruckel, director David Kabbe, and lead actress Sarah Padbury about the new short film, IZIDOR." last_modified: "2025-02-18T05:00:00+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [Izidor, orphan, romania, short film] --- # Romania Insider: From hopelessness to hope _Romania Insider,_ an independent English-language news platform, interviews producer Izidor Ruckel, director David Kabbe, and lead actress Sarah Padbury about the new short film, IZIDOR. Read the interview [**here**](https://www.romania-insider.com/izidor-ruckel-short-film-story-february-2025). --- --- title: "About us" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about-us/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "About us Engaging quote from you or authority in your space About us content" last_modified: "2025-06-26T19:52:34+00:00" --- # About us # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Engaging quote from you or authority in your space About us content --- --- title: "Contact" url: "https://izidorstory.com/contact/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Claes Jonasson Design LLC" last_modified: "2025-09-25T20:59:44+00:00" --- # Contact # Izidor Story LLC 4960 S. Gilbert Rd. Ste. 1-194 Chandler, AZ 85249 ## Contact us Facebook This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Message(Required) We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "Terms of service" url: "https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-service/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Terms of use Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy." last_modified: "2026-04-07T20:52:26+00:00" --- # Terms of service # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please [click here](https://policies.termageddon.com/api/policy/ZGtGcVYzWmxRMUl3SzJwRVRYYzlQUT09) to view the policy. --- --- title: "Disclaimer" url: "https://izidorstory.com/disclaimer/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Disclaimer Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy." last_modified: "2026-04-07T20:55:37+00:00" --- # Disclaimer # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please [click here](https://policies.termageddon.com/api/policy/VUhGbVJEVlVWVE5qTkRSdFNGRTlQUT09) to view the policy. --- --- title: "Welcome" url: "https://izidorstory.com/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "https://vimeo.com/1042002431?share=copy Izidor One child’s story becomes a window into the struggles and hopes of vulnerable children everywhere. Stories shape how we see the world. Reflection changes what we do. IZIDOR is a film-based learning experience that becomes a catalyst for" last_modified: "2026-08-03T20:10:00+00:00" --- # Welcome # _Izidor One child’s story becomes a window into the struggles and hopes of vulnerable children everywhere._ [Individual rental](https://izidorstory.com/individual/) [Group viewing](https://izidorstory.com/groups/) ## **Stories shape how we see the world.** ### _**Reflection changes what we do.**_ _IZIDOR_ is a film-based learning experience that becomes a catalyst for thoughtful discussion and practical action on behalf of vulnerable children. Whether you’re teaching, training, recruiting, fundraising, or launching a community initiative, _IZIDOR_ helps you strengthen the work you’re already doing—or start something new. On this site, you’ll find everything you need to integrate _IZIDOR_ into your program, event, or initiative: an award-winning film and audience-specific discussion guides that turn a shared story into lasting impact. Watch. Discuss. Act. ## Watch the film **Home film rental** [Rent the film](https://izidorstory.com/individual/) ## Group viewing **Options to use the film in your organization** [Screening options](https://izidorstory.com/host-screening/) ## Take action **Ways you can help** [Actions](https://izidorstory.com/take-action/) ## Need help? **Support for you here** [Find help](https://izidorstory.com/need-help/) ![quote mark](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/quote30.svg) _IZIDOR is a short film with a long echo… It asks us to feel the weight of what’s lost when children grow up unseen—and the profound ripple effect when even one person chooses to see them._ _I won’t forget this film. I don’t want to._ _If you work with kids, watch it. If you’ve ever wondered whether small acts of kindness matter, watch it. If you need a reminder of why this work is worth doing even when the systems feel impossible, watch it._ _**Melody Aguayo, PhD Adoption Trauma Coach**_ ## Making of the film & Press kit Discover the story behind _IZIDOR_ through cast and crew bios, production notes, and behind-the-scenes photos.  Download the official Press Kit for ready-to-use details and assets. [About the film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) ## Izidor Ruckel Meet Izidor Ruckel, the real person behind the story of _IZIDOR_. [About Izidor](https://izidorstory.com/about-izidor/) ## News ### Recent posts [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-Eddrick-Show-2-1500x774.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/the-eddrick-show-interview-with-director-david-kabbe/) #### [The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/the-eddrick-show-interview-with-director-david-kabbe/) Podcaster Eddrick Jerome interviews director David Kabbe about the genesis of IZIDOR. [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Laurels-Poster-1500x844.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/) #### [IZIDOR’s Big Summer 2025](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/) IZIDOR moves audiences around the world to tears, laughter, and most importantly – action. [![Web page with Dave Kabbe interview](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Dave-Kabbe-interview-1500x844.webp)](https://izidorstory.com/dirty-movies-dmovies-witness-romania-through-the-eye-of-an-orphaned-child/) #### [DMovies: Witness Romania through the eye of an orphaned child](https://izidorstory.com/dirty-movies-dmovies-witness-romania-through-the-eye-of-an-orphaned-child/) DMovies talks with director David Kabbe about the real meaning of resilience, recording sound at an elementary school, and more… ### From the news archives [![Alex and Izidor picture on Publico](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Publico.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/o-rapaz-do-documentario/) #### [Público: Lisbon, Portugal](https://izidorstory.com/o-rapaz-do-documentario/) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Laurels-Poster-1500x844.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/) #### [IZIDOR’s Big Summer 2025](https://izidorstory.com/izidors-big-summer-2025/) [![Sarah Padbury, Stacy Petty and Izidor Ruckel in studio at 1310 KFKA talk radio.](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Padbury-Petty-Ruckel-on-KFKA.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-interviewed-on-stacy-petty-show-movie-sarah-padbury-radio/) #### [Izidor Ruckel reveals new film on live radio show](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-interviewed-on-stacy-petty-show-movie-sarah-padbury-radio/) [![A woman and limping little boy exit through an animated, scary metal gate with the words asylum for irrecoverable children, and out into a beautiful, tree-lined path](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Web-wide-black-izidor-1500x845.webp)](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-report-from-romania-filming/) #### [Short film update: GREAT news!](https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-report-from-romania-filming/) [Visit the FULL news page](https://izidorstory.com/blog/) --- --- title: "News" url: "https://izidorstory.com/news/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" last_modified: "2025-09-16T21:47:34+00:00" --- # News --- --- title: "Privacy policy" url: "https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Privacy Policy Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy." last_modified: "2025-10-30T16:34:56+00:00" --- # Privacy policy # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please [click here](https://policies.termageddon.com/api/policy/VVZsMFlVODRiV040UW1wMFpIYzlQUT09) to view the policy. --- --- title: "IZIDOR the film is finished!" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-film-finished/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "IZIDOR, the short film, finishes production. Read what is planned next and how to view the 30-minute movie." last_modified: "2026-10-22T20:30:03+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Recommended, Romanian news stories, Short Film] tags: [adoption, animation, Izidor, kindness, romania] custom_fields: ast-featured-img: "disabled" --- # IZIDOR the film is finished! ### **ANIMATION – COMPLETE!** IZIDOR is a 30-minute film with 8 minutes of animation. The animation process was laborious and complicated, with Director** David Kabbe** working alongside Animation Supervisor **John Kujawa** to ensure the animation conveyed its important emotional messaging. We were also thrilled to add to this team two people from the prestigious Savannah College of Art and Design, Professor **Ahmed Elmatarawi** and a gradating, talented animator,** Alani Sanders**. ![Animated Onisa in Director's office](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DirectorOfficeScene_PK.jpg-1500x806.webp) ![Animated scene with Sofia and Onisa](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sofiaOnisaScene_PK-1500x806.jpeg) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/OnisaIzidorAlbescu_Scene_PK-1500x791.jpg) ### **SOUND DESIGN AND MIX – COMPLETE!** French Sound Designer **Benjamin Jacquier **created a detailed palate of sound for our film, including a haunting recording of children made at his local elementary school. **Dominic Camardella**, an industry-recognized audio engineer and producer, mixed Ben’s sound effects and **Jesper Ankarfeldt**‘s score and made them come alive, stirring viewers’ hearts with how just a small light shining in the darkness sparks hope. ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sound-Mix-1500x810.jpeg)_Director David Kabbe, Producer Sarah Padbury, and Audio Engineer Dominic Camardella in the sound studio_ ### FINAL EDIT AND COLOR – COMPLETE! **Tony Leech**, a director/writer/editor in his own right (_Hoodwinked! Escape from Planet Earth_), rounded out our post-production team, capping the film’s final look. His added touch completed the film’s beauty and impact. ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Dave-and-Tony-1-1500x779.jpeg)_David Kabbe and Tony Leech_ ## WHAT’S NEXT? ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/film-festival-award-icon-simple-illustration-film-festival-award-vector-icon-web-design-isolated-white-background_98396-13804.png) **FILM FESTIVALS: **We are applying to film festivals around the world to showcase the film and its message: IZIDOR humanizes “the orphan” by uncovering a need we all have: **to belong**. This human connection transcends culture and time, making the lessons learned in 1988 communist Romania relevant today. ## WHEN CAN I SEE IT? **ONLINE Private Screenings:** All **DONORS** will receive an email with a private link to watch the film! **IN-PERSON Private Screenings:** Available for **organizations/groups** by contacting Exec. Producer Sarah Padbury (Sarah@IzidorRuckel.com). ** MOVIE PREMIERE: Public screenings** to be available in 2026 (after the festival circuit). ![A lone apple hangs from a tree branch](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PP-46-copy-1200x529.jpg) _**FUNDING UPDATE**_ 150+ Donors = $90,000 2 Grants = $60,000 We are so grateful for the** 150+ people** who partnered with us to make this film with their** tax-deductible donations**.** **With your partnership, we created a beautiful and moving short story that will have big impact for children all over the world! --- --- title: "Contact" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Contact us Send us a message" last_modified: "2025-12-20T20:07:44+00:00" --- # Contact - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # Contact us [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) ## Send us a message Company This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Message(Required) We’ll treat your information in accordance with our [Terms of Use](https://izidorstory.com/terms-of-use/) and [Privacy Policy](https://izidorstory.com/privacy-policy/). Submit --- --- title: "10 Questions" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "10 Questions #1 What inspired the idea for this film? COURAGEOUS KINDNESS: Kindness is more than just being nice. Kindness shocks us because it takes courage. It requires great personal risk with no guarantee of reward. Yet in a moment" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:23:36+00:00" --- # 10 Questions - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe #1 What inspired the idea for this film? COURAGEOUS KINDNESS: Kindness is more than just being nice. Kindness shocks us because it takes courage. It requires great personal risk with no guarantee of reward. Yet in a moment when most people shrink, ignore or run away, others are compelled to _do something_. Humanity is awed and inspired when someone abandons good sense and safety on behalf of another. _IZIDOR_ is about an act of kindness in the darkest of places by a person who had no idea what the end result would be. All Onisa knew was that these forgotten children needed love and a home despite the fact the system was set up to keep them hidden away until they died. She didn’t know just two years later Communism would fall and Izidor would go on be adopted by an American family. She didn’t know he would later describe the visit to her home as, “The day I discovered hope!” while speaking to large audiences. And she certainly didn’t know a film would be made about her risky decision to shine a tiny light in the darkness for one small child. We want to amplify Onisa’s testimony to the power of courageous kindness. ![Onisa cooking in kitchen](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/onisa-mare-890x1200.webp)Onisa #2 **The film is based on a true story about an orphan. How did you prepare for handling such a tender subject?** AUDIENCE OF ONE: From the beginning, we focused on making a film about orphans – _for orphans_. (By “orphan” we mean: all vulnerable children who are missing parental protection.) That drove our decision-making from the storyline to how we talk about and promote the movie. How can we truthfully represent the orphan experience and then positively impact their situation? We also understood that anyone with childhood trauma could also be affected by this film. We spent 100s of hours researching the subject matter. For historical accuracy, we interviewed orphan survivors and locals who lived under Nicolae Ceausescu’s regime. We examined the effects of communism and fascism on Romania, sifting through hours of old footage. To better understand the orphan, we talked with current and former orphans, young and old. We visited a Romanian family group home. We reached out to orphan care workers and nonprofits, adoptive and foster parents, psychologists, and social workers. Finally, we will provide audiences with a how-to-help guide. The storyline itself provides a beautiful example of how to make a difference. Upon public release of the film, we will offer linked resources on our website. These plans are being developed with input from many of the people listed above. ![orphan boy in crib](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/child-in-crib-1200x932.webp) #3 **What techniques were used to give the film its unique style?** ANIMATION AND LIVE ACTION: In the cinematic universe, when live action and animation are paired, the animated world is typically the fantastical, whimsical and beautiful world where the protagonist escapes the difficulties of life and learns a valuable lesson. (Examples: _Mary Poppins, Christopher Robin, Pete’s Dragon, IF, Narnia _series) Our tale turns this film trope on its head: The animated world is a terrible world, a scary place you don’t want to be. And the live action world, the real world, is full of beauty and goodness. The animation has the feel of dark, European expressionistic art with its exaggerated realism. Our Animation Supervisor, John Kujawa, created an innovative production process that blends traditional 3D animation processes, motion capture, and cutting-edge techniques to achieve the emotional depth the animation needed. ![John, Sarah and Dave at motion capture](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/John-Sarah-Dave-motion-capture-1500x1033.webp) #4 **Why did you use animation in the film?** REALITY CHECK: We had the challenge of creating an appalling world that is truly dark and terrifying. In communist Romania, tens of thousands of disabled children were warehoused in “home hospitals” that could be better described as asylums. The atrocities the children endured there are too graphic to recreate. (Ask us…) With such high stakes, we had to make many difficult decisions about how to represent such harrowing experiences. Using animation to depict life inside the asylum allowed us to handle sensitive content with delicacy and compassion, yet still invoke the harsh realities of that life. The animated world’s location also exists in the film’s live action world, so the animation was meticulously built to mirror the real building, inside and out. Accordingly, DP Daniel Wyland and our live action crew worked diligently to make the real world beyond the asylum exceedingly beautiful, magical and full of light. ![animated frame of Izidor at window at crowded orphanage](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/izidor-graphic-HR-1200x958.webp) #5 **How did you find the location and set decoration to pull off a home set in 1980s Romania?** COMMUNITY HELP: We did a lot of research and cultural exploration on homes the Maramures region where this story takes place. We also interviewed people who lived during that time to confirm what typified a home back then. When we arrived on-location, we had just three weeks to find a location, decorate it, and complete the shoot. After sharing photos of the type of home interior we were looking for, a community member led us to an unoccupied, unrenovated house. Several volunteers helped us transform it into Onisa’s home. In fact, a handful of local women took it upon themselves to make sure we got it right, pulling out family heirlooms and traditional textiles for us to use on set. Moreover, Izidor’s memory and attention to detail as a producer was crucial in getting Onisa’s home to be not only period correct, but displayed endearingly to represent the emotional roller coaster he experienced during this 24-hour period. In the end, several Romanian crew members proclaimed, “I feel like I’m in my grandma’s house!” ![Onisa's house set decor](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/onisa-house-set-deco-960x1200.webp) #6 **What was a difficult moment during filming and how was it handled?** ON-LOCATION FILMING: Producing a low-budget film in a foreign country about a sensitive subject, we were really on a knife’s edge where any number of things could have derailed the whole project. We planned to film in Izidor’s hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei (“Sighet”), Romania, where he was institutionalized for the first 11 years of his life. We needed permission to film around the city, as well as in the now-dilapidated building where hundreds of children used to live. However, the topic of Romania’s abandoned children under Nicolae Ceausescu is a delicate matter in Romania. We didn’t know how city officials would respond to us filming there. A local, hard-working social worker arranged for Izidor and the filmmakers to meet with the mayor of Sighet. We wanted to personally convey that the film was not about bashing Romania’s past. Rather, Izidor represents all orphans, everywhere. He is an example of how children from hard places can overcome and heal. Mayor Vasile Moldovan welcomed us warmly as we exchanged gifts and told him about our vision. In the end, he loved the message of the film and granted us permission to shoot in the city. In a Facebook [post](https://www.facebook.com/vasile.moldovan.142240/posts/pfbid0YDgHVpS6vydGeezRedWqyBqJbGB1KHNMZmxV2XfxoydL6o4y6Lv2MozFA9b3VRkyl), the mayor said, “…We hope that the period you will spend in Sighet, in the city that offered you a childhood with many challenges, will be a pleasant one, Izidor…” ![Mayor Moldovan and Izidor](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/izidor-and-moldovan.webp)Mayor Moldovan and Izidor #7 **What is a standout memory from production?** SUNDAY MEAL: We wanted to recreate the actual first meal Izidor enjoyed at Onisa’s house: soup, cabbage rolls (sarmale), juice and cake. This very special “Sunday meal” means that Onisa spent extra time and money to celebrate Izidor’s visit. One of the local grandmothers, whom our director nicknamed Mama Mia, volunteered to cook the traditional meal. She also taught the actress playing Onisa how to roll sarmale correctly. We are grateful Mama Mia helped us reproduce this beautiful memory. ![making sarmale](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/making-sarmale.webp) #8 **What role does music play in the film?** CONNECTION THROUGH MUSIC: We want audiences to experience with Izidor his many “firsts” – first time outside, first time seeing a horse, first bite of an apple, first time eating at a table. The film was written with very little dialogue and designed to lean on music to convey Izidor’s emotions and senses as he explores what it means to be human. In effect, the music becomes a lead character. Thus, finding the right composer was super important. We couldn’t be happier with the exceptional score created by Jesper Ankarfeldt. We also wanted to add some distinctly Romanian touches to the music. The score incorporates a dulcimer (traditional Romanian instrument) and folk music themes. In addition, a popular Romanian folk song from the 1980s is played over a radio in the film (Irina Loghin’s “Mi-ai dat Mama Cantecul”). ![Jesper Ankarfeldt](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/jesper-ankarfeldt-975x1200.webp) #9 **How did a first-time writer and first-time director attract so many experienced crew members to a low budget short film?** STORY WITH PURPOSE: Our dominant strengths were having an extraordinary coming-of-age story and Sarah Padbury’s solid screenplay revealing a powerful way to tell it. We also had a strong grasp of the subject matter, a firm belief this film could help vulnerable children, and a commitment to make a high-quality film if we could convince top-notch artists and crew members to join us. But most importantly, we had Izidor Ruckel’s trust that our proposed film would represent him well. The screenplay opened the door for conversations with talented artists and crew. The next hook was our distinctive use of animation and live-action. This was a fun way to start a conversation about cinematic history and how directors use new techniques to disrupt the status quo. Director Dave Kabbe shared his compelling vision about how the film would introduce an innovative way to construct a story and flip more than one movie trope on its head. Along the way, we discovered many people yearning to put their fingerprints on a film bound to do good in this world. In the end, some incredible folks took a leap of faith and trusted us with their time, talents, and efforts. We are so very grateful. ![team members on Zoom call](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/zoom-call.webp) #10 **What is the filmmakers’ hope for audiences to take away from the film?** STEP OUT: Orphan heroes make the perfect movie trope because they have no family ties to hold them down, freedom to step out into adventure, and anonymity to move easily across social and economic barriers. But real orphans and foster children _do _have a backstory, they _do not _feel free, and they endure a _multitude _of barriers. _IZIDOR_ reveals a universal truth about vulnerable children across all history and cultures: adventure and healing come not by pulling themselves up by their own bootstraps, but by outsiders stepping up to help. Through Izidor’s eyes, people will better relate to at-risk children in their own communities and abroad through a longing we all have: the need to belong. In addition, Onisa’s family presents a model for how to step out, reach into a vulnerable child’s life with courageous kindness, and make a difference. We hope viewers will do the same. ![Izidor and Onisa walk home](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/izidor-and-onisa-walk-home.webp) [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "Crew" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "The Contact Director/PRODUCER David Kabbe IZIDOR marks Dave’s narrative film directorial debut, building on his 20 years of experience producing, coordinating, and directing a diverse range of projects—from independent films and television to live events, tentpole premieres, talk shows, and" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:21:47+00:00" --- # Crew - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ![David Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/David-Kabbe-2.webp) ## Director/PRODUCER ### David Kabbe _IZIDOR_ marks Dave’s narrative film directorial debut, building on his 20 years of experience producing, coordinating, and directing a diverse range of projects—from independent films and television to live events, tentpole premieres, talk shows, and large-scale multimedia productions. He has collaborated with major studios, including Paramount, Universal, DreamWorks, and Warner Brothers. Dave’s global upbringing ignited a deep passion for storytelling that amplifies humanitarian issues. His filmmaking journey has taken him from interviewing Filipino warlords to documenting genocide in war-torn Iraq and recording the recent atrocities in Ukraine. As a foster child mentor, he gained firsthand insight into the struggles of at-risk youth, further fueling his commitment to impactful storytelling. [![LinkedIn logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/LI-wh.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kabbe-2b37a76/) [![IMDb logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMDb-wh.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2852314/?ref_=fn_t_1) ![Izidor and Director talking through scene outdoors](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Director_Izidor_landscape-1500x1000.webp) ![David Kabbe watching on monitor as indoor scene is being shot](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Director_Monitoring-1500x1000.webp) ![Director giving Izidor and Onisa instructions for outdoor scene](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Director_Tunnel_Directions-1200x800.webp) ## Writer/Producer ### Sarah Padbury Sarah is a producer, writer, actress, and child advocate—now making her producing debut with _IZIDOR_. She conducted in-depth research on Izidor’s story, interviewing Izidor himself, his family, orphanage friends, former caregivers, and key figures in his rescue, both in the U.S. and Romania. In 2004, Sarah played a pivotal role in launching [Project 1.27](https://project127.org), a nonprofit dedicated to equipping foster and adoptive parents. Today, the organization leads a national network of 18 bridge organizations, collectively supporting 7,000 children each year. She has seven children by adoption and has trained hundreds of foster and adoptive parents. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1720129/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_sarah%2520padbury) [![Linked In logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/LI.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-padbury-1aa8818/) ![Sarah Padbury](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Sarah-Padbury-2-1500x1000.webp) ![Izidor Ruckel](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Izidor-Ruckel.jpg) ## PRODUCER ### Izidor Ruckel Izidor Ruckel is a Romanian-born author, speaker, and filmmaker known for advocating for vulnerable children. He is the producer of a two-time award-winning film, _GIVEN OUR CHANCE_, a documentary that explores the lives of Romanian orphans who grew up in the country’s notorious orphanage system during the Communist era. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5975736/) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://izidorruckel.com) ![Elena Beuca](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ElenaBeuca.webp) ## ROMANIA CO-PRODUCER ### Elena Beuca Rogers Elena is a Romanian-American independent filmmaker best known for producing, directing and starring in _TALITA_ (formerly _D-LOVE_), which won Best Picture at 10 film festivals. _THY NEIGHBOURS_ is her new documentary about the plight of Ukrainian civilians and the volunteers serving them. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2979363/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://elenabeucarogers.com) ![Daniel Wyland](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DanielWyland.webp) ## DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY ### Daniel Wyland Daniel is a Romanian-born filmmaker best known for the short film _27 CHILDREN_, which won multiple film festival awards. He is a seasoned cinematographer who also is a director, producer and writer for film, music videos and commercials. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4734882/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://www.danielwyland.com) ![Jesper Ankarfeldt](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/JesperAnkarfeldt.webp) ## composer ### Jesper Ankarfeldt Jesper is a Danish award-winning composer with more than 100 films and tv shows to his credit. His films have been screened at hundreds of film festivals, broadcast in multiple countries, won dozens of awards and earned several Oscar qualifications. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3828369/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://www.ankarfeldt.dk) ![John Kujawa](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/JohnKujawa.webp) ## animation supervisor ### John Kujawa John is a computer graphic (CG) artist whose extensive experience includes 16 years as technical director for Comedy Central’s Emmy Award-winning _SOUTH PARK._ He also holds credits for several studios, including Activision, Sony Pictures, Disney and HBO. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1380616/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](http://johnkujawa.com/index.html) ![Christine Lojko Haslett & Mark Haslett](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Haslett.webp) ## editors ### **Christine Lojko Haslett & Mark Haslett** Christine is an editor best known for _BADGUYS_ (DreamWorks), _HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON_ (DreamWorks) and _TROLLS_ (DreamWorks). Mark is a writer/editor best known for _LET’S GO LUNA!_ (PBS Kids), _HELIX_ (Syfy Network) and _LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT_ (Universal). [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0368236/) [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1425003/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) ![Tony Leech](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/TonyLeech.webp) ## animation editor, online editor & colorist ### Tony Leech Tony’s work spans both animated and live action films as writer, director and editor. He is best known for _HOODWINKED!, ESCAPE FROM PLANT EARTH _and _VARIANT_. The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror nominated _HOODWINKED! _for Best Animated Film (2006). [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0498555/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) ![Benjamin Jacquier](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BenjaminJacquier.webp) ## SOUND DESIGNER ### **Benjamin Jacquier** Ben is a French sound designer and composer who offers sound production and mixing for films, music videos, web content, games, and advertising. This award-winning artist specializes in creating original soundtracks and foley to capture the emotion of each project. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12363864/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://www.benjacquier.com) ![Dominic Camardella](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DominicCamardella.webp) ## SURROUND & STEREO SOUND MIX ### **Dominic Camardella** Dom is an industry-recognized audio engineer and producer. His vast resume includes recording dozens of musicians, as well as audio mixing and dialogue recording for film and television. Dom has received two Grammy nominations, including winning Best Spoken Word Album. [![IMDb logo](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMDb.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3283328/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) [![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/website.svg)](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3283328/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1) ## Full Crew & Credits | DIRECTOR | David Kabbe | | --- | --- | | WRITER | Sarah Padbury | | PRODUCERS | Izidor RuckelSarah PadburyDavid Kabbe | | ROMANIA CO-PRODUCER | Elena Beuca Rogers | | ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS | Jor Van KlineChristine Lojko Haslett | | EXECUTIVE PRODUCER | Sarah Padbury | | COMPOSER | Jesper Ankarfeldt | | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY | Daniel Wyland | | ANIMATION SUPERVISOR | John Kujawa | | EDITORS | Christine Lojko HaslettMark Haslett | | ANIMATION EDITOR | Tony Leech | | AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY & PRODUCTION STILLS | Paul Plesa | | 1st AC & 2nd UNIT DP | Stefan Aghitoaie | | PRODUCTION SOUND MIXER | Daniel Rizea | | PRODUCTION COORDINATOR | Dave Rogers | | PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS | Robby BeucaRuth Beuca | | SET DESIGNERS | Alexandra Cadar Lumei, Mariana Cadar Lumei, Elena Beuca Rogers, Izidor Ruckel | | SET DESIGN ASSISTANTS | Florentina Farcas, Maicariu Marius, Dan Opris, Dina Roman, Ramona Ivascu, Adina Covaci, Noemi Boje, Bogdan Boje, Nelu Cadar Lumei | | ASSEMBLY EDIT | Daniel Lindeen | | ANIMATION TECHNICAL DIRECTOR | John Kujawa | | ANIMATION VISUAL DEVELOPMENT | Tony Peluce | | CHARACTER DESIGN & MODELING | Gabe LeonardJohn Kujawa | | ANIMATION STORYBOARDS & ANIMATICS | Marc Sanchez | | ANIMATED DREAM SEQUENCE | Edgar Tellez | | BACKGROUND ARTIST | John Kujawa | | RIGGERS | John KujawaAhmed Elmatarawi | | ANIMATORS | John KujawaAlani Sanders | | ASSISTANT ANIMATOR | Tyler Lindsey | | VISUAL EFFECTS | John KujawaTony Leech | | VOICEOVER RECORDINGS | Fineas Alexa (Cluj, Romania)Axiom Post Productions (Los Angeles, CA) | | SOUND DESIGN & FOLEY | Benjamin Jacquier | | SURROUND & STEREO SOUND MIX | Dominic Camardella @ Santa Barbara Sound Design (Santa Barbara, CA) | | CHILDREN’S WALLA & ADR | Hayden Jinsu Chang5th Grade Class @ Champagny Primary School (Champagny, France) | | COLORIST & ONLINE EDITOR | Tony Leech | | FILM SCORE MUSICIANS: | | | FLUTE | Karolina Ogrodowska | | OBOE & ENGLISH HORN | Phil Popham | | CLARINET | Jason Alder | | BASSOON | Damian Montano | | VIOLIN | Leonard Chong | | VIOLA | Drew Forde | | CELLO | Klara Krklec | | “MI-AI DAT MAMA CANTELCU”MUSIC, LYRICS & PERFORMANCE | Irina Loghin | | ARCHIVAL FOOTAGE | ABC News VideoSource | [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "Cast" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Contact Iosua Barbu as Izidor (EE-zee-door) At age 8, Iosua’s standout audition earned him a lead role in his acting debut. Now 12, he enjoys clay modeling, playing guitar, and building STAR WARS Legos. He hopes playing Izidor marks the" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:19:34+00:00" --- # Cast - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ![Izidor looking at camera](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PP-59-1200x800.webp) ## Iosua Barbu as **_Izidor_** (EE-zee-door) At age 8, Iosua’s standout audition earned him a lead role in his acting debut. Now 12, he enjoys clay modeling, playing guitar, and building _STAR WARS _Legos. He hopes playing Izidor marks the beginning of his acting career. ## Sarah Padbury as **_Onisa_** (Oh-NEE-sha) Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater, has performed in community theater, and played a supporting lead in _PAMELA’S PRAYER_ (Dir. Dave Christiano). This film marks her on-screen leading role debut. ![Onisa standing in kitchen](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Onisa-standing-1200x800.webp) ![Smiling man on horse cart](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Buggy-Ride-1-1500x1000.webp) ## Lucian Igna as **_Dragos_** (DRAW-go-sh) _IZIDOR_ is Lucian’s screen debut in a supporting lead role. By day, he’s a full-time dad at a family group home in Romania, as well as a talented pastry chef. ![Onisa and Izidor talking close together](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PP-79-1200x1200.webp) ![Izidor and Onisa playful moment](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Onisa-Izidor-goof-off-1500x1500.webp) ![Onisa helping Izidor after he's fallen down](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PP-89-1200x1200.webp) ## Animation Cast | IZIDOR | Iosua Barbu | | --- | --- | | ONISA | Sarah Padbury | | SOFIA | Elena Beuca Rogers | | CRISTINA | Sara Elena Balea | | MR. ALBESCU | Warren Williams | | HOSPITAL DIRECTOR | David Kabbe | ![Recording studio, working on voice for animated segments](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/voiceover.webp) ![Cristina voiceover](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Cristina-voiceover.webp) ## Live Action Cast | IZIDOR | Iosua Barbu | | --- | --- | | ONISA | Sarah Padbury | | DRAGOS | Lucian Igna | | TITI | Yasmina Igna | | ALEX | Cristian Irimia | | MIHAI | David Igna | | NEIGHBORHOOD BOYS | Darius Gherdan, Codrut Gherdan & Costin Simion | | ONISA’S MOTHER | Mariana Candar Loumei | | SECURITATE | Jor Van Kline | | MR. ALBESCU | Nelu Candar Loumei | ![Dragos and child actors sitting in a field at sunset](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dragos-Kids-Sunset-1200x632.webp) [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "Our Why" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/background/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Contact Producer Sarah Padbury Director David Kabbe Producer Izidor Ruckel Producer’s Statement Sarah Padbury As Mom to seven children, all of whom joined our family through adoption, I am driven to give voice to children who are missing a mom" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:18:10+00:00" --- # Our Why - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe [![Sarah Padbury](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sarah-Pabury-2023.webp) ](#producer) Producer Sarah Padbury [](#producer) ![Dave Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DavidKabbe.webp) Director David Kabbe [](#director) ![Izidor Ruckel](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-Ruckel7.webp) Producer Izidor Ruckel [](#source) ## Producer’s Statement _Sarah Padbury_ ![Sarah Padbury](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sarah-Padbury-1.webp) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Mom-and-Kids-2025-e1754440877819.jpg) As Mom to seven children, all of whom joined our family through adoption, I am driven to give voice to children who are missing a mom to speak up for them. I am also passionate about writing, film, and acting. Promoting Izidor’s story brings together my talents to advocate for children beyond my own family. I met Izidor Ruckel in a coffee shop a dozen years ago. We began collaborating to help vulnerable children around the globe. This led to traveling to Romania to research and write both a short film and a limited series about Izidor’s extraordinary life. Putting his story on screen will inspire and educate more people than a lifetime of speaking engagements, bringing hope and help to millions. Portraying the day Onisa took Izidor home presents our message in one powerful anecdote everyone can relate to: the need to belong. _IZIDOR_ is a success when it moves viewers to help neglected children experience belonging in this world, because to belong is to truly be alive. ## Director’s Statement _David Kabbe_ ![David Kabbe](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/David-Kabbe1-1306x1500.webp) ![David Kabbe and DP plan a shot on location in Romania](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Director-DP-Horse.webp) Sometimes the best stories find you. I have traveled and documented stories of survival and resilience in some of the most desperate circumstances in this war-torn world. I wondered how these stories could ever be made into films. They are too hard, too real, too sad. In 2015, I met Izidor Ruckel and Sarah Padbury who wanted to bring Izidor’s personal story from script to screen to help children and families. They asked me to read Izidor’s autobiography and research the mountain of news coverage about his life. When I reached the story about a nanny who took him outside for the first time at eight years old, I was so moved that I had to put the book down and take a long walk. There are just too many stories of children in situations they shouldn’t have to endure. How many more stories like this do I have to read, witness, or document? Five years later, the memory of that feeling was still with me when they asked me to be a part of the development of a beautiful series about Izidor’s life. After many conversations, we kept coming back to this one crucial event: going “outside.” It became clear it isn’t just a story we should tell; it is the story we MUST tell. ## Source Material _Izidor Ruckel_ Author, Speaker, Advocate ![Izidor Ruckel](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IzidorRuckel1-1025x1500.webp) ![Izidor speaking to a group of people](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-speaking-to-audience.webp) _IZIDOR_ is based on an awakening event in Izidor Ruckel’s childhood as revealed in his autobiography, _Abandoned for Life_. The book recounts his life as a neglected Romanian orphan, ensuing adoption by an American family, and ongoing struggles as an adoptee. Izidor uses his story to advocate for vulnerable children, changing hearts and inspiring initiatives to better care for at-risk children and people with disabilities. Izidor has presented to adoptive parents, college students, churches, nonprofits, and government policymakers across the United States and Romania about the effects of institutionalization on children. His hands-on involvement includes mentoring at a facility housing HIV positive patients, volunteering at a care center for abandoned elders, and serving at a Haitian orphanage. He also regularly fields calls from distressed adoptive families looking for support. - ![Izidor 2017 speech at ARFO in Bucharest](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2017-Izidor-ARFO-speech-Bucharest.jpg) - ![Izidor at children's camp with children and candles](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Izidor-camp-candles-1500x1000.webp) - ![Alex and Izidor filming documentary](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/alexizidor-1500x1000.webp) - ![Izidor in Haiti holding small child in his arms](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-in-Haiti-holding-small-child-1500x900.webp) ## Izidor’s 30+ Years of Press Coverage ![Izidor and Morgan Freeman](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Izidor-and-Morgan-Freeman.jpg) HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: For twenty-four years, Romania’s communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu pressured families to have at least five children in order to build his army. Meanwhile, he stripped the population of resources to care for them. In December 1989, Romania’s citizens, inspired by the fall of the Berlin Wall, launched the Romanian Revolution. Ceausescu was arrested, tried and executed for crimes against humanity. Western media poured into the country and discovered tens of thousands of maltreated children in secret government “hospitals,” including 10-year-old Izidor. OUTCOME: Dozens of global media outlets have featured Izidor’s story, drawn by his place in Romanian history and as a poster child for “the orphan.” But Izidor always leads the discussion away from the past and to the future: What can we do to ensure that today’s vulnerable children are protected, cherished and treated with dignity? **Click the image below to view/read Izidor’s press coverage:** [![The Story of Us - National Geographic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/natgeo1.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opDIbWMVIXk) [![The Atlantic logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/the-atlantic-logo-1500x1500.webp)](https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/07/can-an-unloved-child-learn-to-love/612253/) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Washington-Post.webp)](https://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/style/2014/01/30/a-lost-boy-finds-his-calling/) [![BBC World Service logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BBC_World_Service_2019.webp)](https://www.bbc.com/news/av/magazine-35944245) [![NPR logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/NPR-logo-square.png)](https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2014/02/20/280237833/orphans-lonely-beginnings-reveal-how-parents-shape-a-childs-brain) [![LA Time logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LAtimes2.jpg)](https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-romanian-orphan-20151203-story.html) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/libertatea.png)](https://www.libertatea.ro/stiri/reportaj-nu-tara-romania-mi-a-facut-rau-ci-cativa-oameni-cum-a-invatat-un-tanar-crescut-intr-un-orfelinat-din-sighet-si-adoptat-in-sua-sa-ierte-4653962) [![20/20 logo and Barbara Walters](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20-20barbarawalterssm.webp)](https://vimeo.com/user/48119557/folder/21977427?isPrivate=false) - ![Izidor interviewed at news desk in Romania](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-newsdesk-1500x1496.webp) - ![Izidor on Romanian TV set with host](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-Romanian-TV.webp) - ![Izidor in radio studio](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-KFKA.webp) - ![Izidor interviewed on La Maruta](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/izidor-La-Maruta-Morgan-Freeman.webp) - ![Izidor in press conference](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/izidor-microphones.webp) - ![Izidor selfie on La Maruta TV show](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-selfie-La-Maruta-1500x844.webp) - ![Izidor being interviewed on Romanian TV show set](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/izidor-Romanian-TV2-1500x779.webp) [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "Press kit" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "Contact Downloads Logline Trapped in a horrid, animated asylum, an orphan discovers a beautiful, real world exists outside the gate. Synopsis Disabled children are banished in 1988 communist Romania. But one daring nanny resolves to take 8-year-old Izidor outside for" last_modified: "2026-02-09T22:59:17+00:00" --- # Press kit - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The Eddrick Show: Interview with Director David Kabbe ## Downloads [EPK](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/11vqisEKLcahKbCqSs6UcEi-_l2yqtLVJ) [Live Action Stills](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14H_SdAWbUGd61EklR9H1bcXJd30Ulo7e) [Animation Stills](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cL7bpXj--Rh1W7gQ0E4rtTpahQ-XHZ7d) [BTS Stills](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Pdh7W_LyAg_g9VunIefIZEYCIDEQCJTA) [Poster](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tKglbR-G58tN8i06S6zgh-ASTpLlGreV) [Videos/GIFs](https://vimeo.com/user/48119557/folder/21943337?isPrivate=false) ![Izidor short film poster - vertical](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IZIDORposter-portrait.webp) ## Logline Trapped in a horrid, animated asylum, an orphan discovers a beautiful, real world exists outside the gate. ## Synopsis Disabled children are banished in 1988 communist Romania. But one daring nanny resolves to take 8-year-old Izidor outside for the very first time. She never could have imagined the consequences. ![Animated Izidor at window](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IzidorAtWindow.webp) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Iosua-Barbu-1.webp) ## Full Synopsis Eight-year-old Izidor is a disabled orphan trapped in a world of animation. He lives in a hidden asylum where “defective” children are banished and abused in 1988 communist Romania. Izidor spends his days staring out the window at a world he is not allowed to touch. That is, until the day nanny Onisa takes him home for the night. Once they step outside the asylum gate, the world mysteriously transforms into live action – _it’s real!_ Izidor is spellbound by the sights and sounds of nature and village life. He delights in the beauty of love and belonging in Onisa’s family. But all too soon, Izidor remembers where he really belongs. Was Onisa’s courageous act of kindness a terrible mistake? | Title | Izidor | | --- | --- | | Project type | Short | | Genre | Drama | | Format | Live Action & Animation | | Production Years | 2021-2024 | | Country of Origin | United States | | Country of Filming | Romania | | Language | English | | Run Time | 29 min 56 sec | | Screen Ratio | 16×9 | | Shooting Format | Digital | | Sound Format | 5.1 and Stereo | ## The Orphans’ Animated World _Dark, Eerie, Uncomfortable, Unreal_ The children exist in an animated world, an asylum confined by a cement wall topped with barbed wire. The children are not treated as real humans and in fact, are not even aware they are human – until the day Izidor passes through the gate, and into the real world. [Download images](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cL7bpXj--Rh1W7gQ0E4rtTpahQ-XHZ7d) - ![Animated character lineup outside the Home Hospital](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/CharacterLineup.webp) - ![Animated Izidor in holding room surrounded by many other children](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/HoldingRoom.webp) - ![Animated Onisa in Director's office](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DirectorOfficeScene_PK.jpg.webp) - ![Animated Onisa and Izidor being checked by the guard](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IzidorOnisaAlbescu.webp) ## GIFs [View GIFs](https://vimeo.com/user/48119557/folder/21943337?isPrivate=false) - ![Animated Onisa](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Onisa-1172x1500.webp) - ![Animated Director](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Director2-1172x1500.webp) - ![Animated Izidor](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Izidor-1172x1500.webp) - ![Animated Christina](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Christina-1172x1500.webp) - ![Animated Albescu](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Albescu-1172x1500.webp) - ![Animated Sofia](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Sofia-1172x1500.webp) ## The Real World [Download images](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14H_SdAWbUGd61EklR9H1bcXJd30Ulo7e) - ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A-Walk-Home-2.webp) - ![Buggy ride, children are playing around a tree](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BuggyRide8.webp) - ![Onisa in her kitchen, tasting food she's cooking](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Cooking-7.webp) - ![Izidor eating dinner at Onisa's house](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dinner-2.webp) - ![People around Oneida's dinner table, laughing](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dinner-5.webp) - ![Izidor laying down to sleep at Onisa's house](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Night-3.webp) ![Man and children sitting in meadow at sunset, looking out over town in valley below](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Buggy-Ride-9.webp) ## Behind the Scenes [Download images](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Pdh7W_LyAg_g9VunIefIZEYCIDEQCJTA) - ![Young Izidor and Director having fun on set](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Director-Izidor-Fun-1500x1000.webp) - ![Filming of dinner table scene at Onisa's house](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/PP-89-1500x1000.webp) - ![Location shoot, Director reviewing shot with young Izidor and crew](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Magic-Hands-1-1500x1000.webp) - ![Live actors standing outside the real Home Hospital](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/The-real-asylum-1000x1500.webp) - ![Makeup time for Sarah as Onisa](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Onsia_Makeup_Elena-1500x1000.webp) - ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PP-308-1500x1000.jpg) - ![Crew filming a location scene](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Full-Crew-3-1500x1000.webp) [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "Libertatae (video): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/libertatae-video-sighetu-marmatiei-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "LIBERTATAE follows Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei as settles into a new home and looks for work. (English with Romanian subs.)" last_modified: "2023-09-13T00:29:41+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News, Romanian news stories] tags: [disability rights, Izidor, orphan, romania, ruckel] --- # Libertatae (video): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania _Libertatea_ follows Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei as settles into a new home and looks for work. __ Watch the video, posted on Facebook, [here](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2229938763870487). (The interview is 90% in English with Romanian subtitles.) --- --- title: "Libertatea (article): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/libertatea-sighetu-marmatiei-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "LIBERTATAE interviews Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei about his efforts to live in Romania in 2023." last_modified: "2023-09-12T18:55:28+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News, Romanian news stories] tags: [disability rights, Izidor, orphan, romania] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Libertatea (article): Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania _Libertatea_ interviews Izidor in his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei about his efforts to return to Romania. __ Read the interview [here](https://www.libertatea.ro/stiri/reportaj-nu-tara-romania-mi-a-facut-rau-ci-cativa-oameni-cum-a-invatat-un-tanar-crescut-intr-un-orfelinat-din-sighet-si-adoptat-in-sua-sa-ierte-4653962). (Non-Romanian speakers please use Google Translate to view the article into your language.) --- --- title: "IZIDOR Production Update (Spring 2023)" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-production-update-spring-2023/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel, David Kabbe (Director) and Sarah Padbury (Producer) provide an update on the production timeline and fundraising effort." last_modified: "2026-10-22T20:29:25+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Romanian news stories, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, orphan, romania, short film] custom_fields: ast-featured-img: "disabled" --- # IZIDOR Production Update (Spring 2023) ![A smalll apple hangs off a tree branch.](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PP-46-copy-1200x529.jpg) **POST-PRODUCTION Q&A** **Q: Who is on the Post-Production Team? When and where can I see the film?** ** A: See below!** ### **COMPOSER – HIRED!** **Jesper Ankarfeldt** is a Danish award-winning film composer with more than 100 films to his credit. His films have won dozens of international awards and earned several Oscar qualifications. _IZIDOR _relies heavily on music for storytelling, so we are thrilled the film will have Jesper’s touch. ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/jesper-conductor2.png)_Jesper Ankarfeldt conducts an orchestra._ ### **EDITORS – HIRED!** **Christine and Mark Haslett** are a married editing team with extensive experience in animated and live-action filmmaking, including work at Disney, DreamWorks, Netflix, Universal, Sony and PBS Kids. Their creative synergy has found some magical moments in our footage, making our tale even better.  ![Mark and Christine Haslett sit infront of a computer screen showing Izidor footage being edited. ](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Hasletts2-1200x621.jpeg)_Mark and Christine Haslett editing IZIDOR footage._ ### ANIMATION TEAM – HIRED! The animation team is headed by **John Kujawa**, a computer graphic (CG) artist whose extensive experience includes 14 years as technical director for the Emmy Award-winning show _South Park_, as well as credits for studios like Activision, Sony Pictures, Disney and HBO. This veteran crew is creating a distinct look for our film that will surprise audiences. ![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Izidor-and-John-K-copy-1-1200x709.jpeg)_Izidor Ruckel visits John Kujawa’s animation studio._ ### ANIMATION DESIGN – Sneak Peek! ![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/frontentrancePhoto4-1200x765.jpeg) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Animated-Holding-Room-crop-1200x634.jpg) ![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/movie-night3.png) ### **WHEN WILL THE FILM BE DONE?** ** **  2024  **** ### **WHERE CAN I SEE IT?** **ONLINE Private Screenings:** Available for **all donors** once the film is finished. **IN-PERSON Private Screenings:** Available for **organizations/groups** by contacting Exec. Producer Sarah Padbury (Sarah@IzidorRuckel.com). **MOVIE PREMIERE: **After the film goes through the international film festival circuit, **public showings** will be held. Expected availability: 2025/2026. --- --- title: "“All of Life” Podcast: The Power of Belonging" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-producer-podcast-interview/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Sarah Padbury, producer and writer of the short film IZIDOR, participates in a panel discussion on belonging and hospitality on the \"All of Life\" podcast at Redemption Church Tempe (Arizona)." last_modified: "2022-05-14T00:39:00+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film, U.S. news stories] --- # “All of Life” Podcast: The Power of Belonging Sarah Padbury, producer and writer of the short film [IZIDOR](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/short-film/), participates in a panel discussion on _belonging_ and _hospitality_ on the [All of Life podcast ](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2BCnE6ZiG6bYPwB4uEhk1x)at Redemption Church Tempe (Arizona). Sarah shares how an orphan’s life was changed by learning he “belonged,” and how she was personally changed while filming the movie on-location in Romania. [Click here ](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2BCnE6ZiG6bYPwB4uEhk1x)to listen to the podcast. --- --- title: "Short film update: GREAT news!" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-story-report-from-romania-filming/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "The IZIDOR production team gives an overview of their 5-week timeline to shoot the live action sequences in Romania, including first hiring actors and finding locations!" last_modified: "2026-10-22T20:28:54+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Romanian news stories, Short Film] tags: [Izidor, orphan, real boy, romania, ruckel, short film] --- # Short film update: GREAT news! The Izidor Story production team spent the month of September on location in Sighetu Marmatiei, Romania, shooting the live action portion of the short film [IZIDOR](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/short-film/) (formerly entitled “Real Boy for a Day”). The film reveals a disabled orphan trapped in a world of animation when he unexpectedly gets a night out of the asylum and experiences the “real” world. It’s based on a true event in Izidor Ruckel’s life when he went outside the institution for the very first time at eight years old. When we arrived in Romania, we had many needs: hire actors, find several locations, procure Ceausescu-era set decoration and costume design, and merge a newly-assembled filming crew into a smooth team. ### ACTORS We hired seven children and five adults to act in the film. Most significantly, we discovered 8-year-old Iosua (“Joshua”) Barbu to play little Izidor. A first-time actor, his understanding of the difficult material blew us away. Starting with his audition, he often asked great questions and adjusted quickly to direction. This little guy has a bright future in front of him! ![Child Izidor standing in the woods](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Izidor-trees-1-800x1200.jpg)_Iosua Barbu as little Izidor_ ![Six children smiling and running through the woods](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Kids-run-1-809x1200.jpg) ### LOCATIONS The Mayor of Sighetu Marmatiei, [Vasile Moldovan](https://www.facebook.com/vasile.moldovan.142240/posts/376049430655558), granted us permission to film in the city streets and at Izidor’s old orphanage. In addition, some residents allowed filming on their properties. One volunteer let us shoot in an unoccupied, 100-year-old house that had remained unrenovated since communist times. After a thorough cleaning, the place transformed into a nostalgic home. [SUNRAI Village Resort](https://www.sunraivillage.com/) provided picturesque views of the valley that helped accentuate the beauty of the real world, compared to life inside the asylum. ![Drone shot of a village at sunset with a horse drawn carriage in view](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Sunset-1-1200x800.jpg)_The city of Sighetu Marmatiei from the hills of SUNRAI Village Resort_ ### SET AND COSTUME DESIGN Volunteers dug through old boxes to find dozens of authentic mementos, fabrics, and dishes from the 1980’s. The results astonished local residents with several exclaiming, “I feel like I’m at my great-grandmother’s house!” ![](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Onishas-table-2-1-800x1200.jpg)Onisha’s table ![A table with a lit lantern and 1980's era radio](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Onishas-radio-1-800x1200.jpg) ### FILM CREW We are thrilled with the results of our 5-member film crew. Not only were these exceptionally talented people to work with, but their openness toward understanding our film’s goals added more creativity and magic to the final results. ![Child actor for Izidor with the 5 members of the filming crew](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-5-member-crew-1200x900.jpg)_L to R: Iosua Baru (actor for little Izidor), Stefan Aghitoaie (Assistant Camera), Paul Plesa (Drone Pilot and Set Photographer), Dave Kabbe (Director), Daniel Rizea (Sound Technician), and Daniel Wyland (Director of Photography)._ ### THANK YOU! We are so grateful for all the people we met in Romania! We could not have done it without the outpouring of local community support we received. Below is a picture from our final Wrap Party of the cast, crew, and community volunteers. ![Group photo of 36 smiling children and adults](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/RBD-Wrap-Party-edited-1-1500x943.png) --- --- title: "REAL BOY FOR A DAY: A short film" url: "https://izidorstory.com/real-boy-for-a-day-a-short-film/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "In December 2020, we announced we had entered pre-production for the narrative limited series IZIDOR, based on the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Now, we are pleased to announce we will preview the series with a short film called REAL" last_modified: "2021-05-21T14:10:00+00:00" categories: [Limited Series, News, Press releases, Short Film] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # REAL BOY FOR A DAY: A short film In December 2020, we announced we had entered pre-production for the narrative limited series [IZIDOR](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/izidor-limited-series-2/), based on the true story of Izidor Ruckel. Now, we are pleased to announce we will preview the series with a **short film** called [REAL BOY FOR A DAY](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/short-film/). The “short” will present an adaption of a pivotal event in Izidor’s otherwise horrible childhood that awakens his self-awareness. At that time, Izidor was an 8-year-old boy with a paralyzed leg when he was allowed to step outside of the asylum for the first time – ever: > **Izidor is a disabled orphan trapped in a world of animation when he unexpectedly gets a night out of the asylum and experiences the “real” world.** The short film utilizes both **animation and live action** to accentuate the disparity between how institutionalized children experience life compared to children in families. The stakes are high because Izidor isn’t a fictional character, but a real boy trying to determine what it means to be human. He represents not just Romanian orphans, but all orphans worldwide. The short film is a **wake-up call**, shining a spotlight on the human rights issues that orphans face everywhere. This project has two purposes. First, this format is a great way to expand our message to non-traditional movie audiences, where viewers are seeking to gather information that is concise, sparks their imagination, and empowers them to “do something” to make the world a better place. Some groups that could utilize the short film include the following: - **Orphan Advocacy Groups/Child Welfare Organizations – **We will partner with a growing list of organizations and offer private showings and online screenings for their conventions, fundraisers, and educational resources. - **Trauma Resource and Recovery Groups – **Childhood trauma impacts people their entire lifetime. We will work with trauma experts in utilizing this resource to give people a glimpse into the life and psyche of an institutionalized child. - **Educational Institutions – **Hundreds of colleges, representing tens of thousands of students, offer degrees in social justice, human rights, psychology and child development. With its thoughtful and provoking message, the short film is a perfect format for classroom study, as well as university panel discussions. In addition, middle school and high school teachers could utilize the film for student discussions in various classes, such as history, psychology and civics. - **Religious Organizations**– We plan to partner with religious organizations that show a history of caring for the orphan. For example, the Pew Research Center reports that 37% of all Americans attend church on a weekly basis, with orphan care being a tenet of most churches and synagogues. Second, REAL BOY FOR A DAY will give traditional film audiences and film festival judges a preview of our vision for the limited series. If well received, the short offers great potential for attracting investors to fund the entire series. In the end, we hope to encourage and influence a worldwide conversation about orphans through this short film: _When will we, as a global society, treat orphans as real boys and girls not just for a day – but every day_? **Please consider donating** to make this short film a reality! Our international production team is poised to begin filming in Romania in August.* Our budget is **$200,000** to produce the short film, coordinate a healthy film festival circuit, and distribute the film worldwide. To date, we have raised $55,000 toward that goal, all from private donations! **Tax-deductible donations** can be made through [The Film Collaborative.](https://www.thefilmcollaborative.org/fiscalsponsorship/projects/izidor) For partnership opportunities or in-kind donations, please [contact us](https://izidorruckel.com/contact-us/). Thank you! The Izidor Story Team *Filming dates are dependent upon favorable Romanian COVID travel regulations at that time. --- --- title: "About the film" url: "https://izidorstory.com/about/" lang: "en-US" type: "page" description: "The short film Recent media coverage IZIDOR is a short film based on an awakening event in Izidor Ruckel's childhood. Izidor lived in a hidden institution for eight years where \"defective\" children were banished and abused in Communist Romania, never" last_modified: "2026-10-16T21:16:04+00:00" custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "no-sidebar" site-content-layout: "page-builder" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" site-post-title: "disabled" ast-featured-img: "disabled" --- # About the film - [Short film](https://izidorstory.com/about/) - [Press kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) - [Our Why](https://izidorstory.com/about/background/) - [Cast](https://izidorstory.com/about/cast/) - [Crew](https://izidorstory.com/about/crew/) - [10 Questions](https://izidorstory.com/about/10-questions/) - [Contact](https://izidorstory.com/about/contact/) # The short film ### Recent media coverage [![The Story of Us - National Geographic](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/natgeo1.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opDIbWMVIXk&t=142s) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/film-fugatives.jpg)](https://fugitives.com/interview-izidor-director-david-kabbe-2025/) [![Action Reloaded logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/action-reloaded-logo-1500x1500.webp)](https://www.actionreloaded.com/izidor-a-short-film-that-hits-like-a-sledgehammer/) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ghmovie-freak.webp)](https://ghmoviefreak.com/short-film-review-izidor-a-whisper-from-the-shadows-of-history/) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Indie-Wrap.png)](https://indiewrapmag.com/interviews/interview-with-director-david-kabbe-and-producer-writer-and-actress-sarah-padbury/) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Eddrick-show-logo.jpeg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6M_3-Hwk1UU) [![](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/scene-for-scene.jpeg)](https://sceneforscene.com/izidor-a-tender-glimpse-into-a-hidden-past/) [![Romania insider logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/romania-insider-2.jpeg)](https://www.romania-insider.com/izidor-ruckel-short-film-story-february-2025) ![Izidor short film official poster](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IZIDORposter-landscape.webp) _IZIDOR_ is a short film based on an awakening event in Izidor Ruckel’s childhood. Izidor lived in a hidden institution for eight years where “defective” children were banished and abused in Communist Romania, never setting foot outside. That is, until the day a kind nanny took him home for the night. ## The stakes For twenty-four years, Romania’s dictator Nicolae Ceausescu pressured families to have at least five children in order to build his army. When the Iron Curtain fell in 1989, Western press found tens of thousands of maltreated children in secret government “hospitals.” _IZIDOR_ gives viewers a glimpse into the life and psyche of an institutionalized child. The stakes are high because Izidor isn’t just a fictional character, but a real boy trying to determine what it means to be human. He represents not just Romania’s abandoned children, but all vulnerable children, everywhere. ## Animation and live action The short film utilizes both animation and live action to accentuate the disparity between how institutionalized children experience life compared to children in families. When Izidor spends a day with a family and experiences the love and connection they have, he discovers that **belonging** is what makes you feel alive. Izidor’s need to belong will resonate with audiences worldwide, moving viewers to address the human rights issues still confronting orphans today. [Press Kit](https://izidorstory.com/about/press-kit/) [Support the short film](https://www.thefilmcollaborative.org/fiscalsponsorship/projects/izidor) [![Instagram logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/instagram2.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/izidorstory/) [![Facebook logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/facebook2.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/IzidorStory) [![TikTok logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tiktok2.svg)](https://www.tiktok.com/@izidorstory) [![X-Twitter logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/x-twitter2.svg)](https://x.com/izidorstory) --- --- title: "“Your Day Brighter” Podcast: Izidor Ruckel’s Incredible Journey to Healing" url: "https://izidorstory.com/abandoned-adopted-advocate-izidor-ruckels-incredible-journey-to-healing/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Tracey Tiernan interviews orphan advocate Izidor Ruckel and screenwriter Sarah Padbury on her podcast, \"Your day brighter: Real reasons to have hope in this world.\" The duo discuss how they met, Izidor's journey from orphan to advocate, and how they" last_modified: "2021-01-27T21:15:33+00:00" categories: [News, Short Film, U.S. news stories] tags: [healing, izidor ruckel, limited series, miniseries, orphan, podcast, romania, Tracey Tiernan] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # “Your Day Brighter” Podcast: Izidor Ruckel’s Incredible Journey to Healing Tracey Tiernan interviews orphan advocate Izidor Ruckel and screenwriter Sarah Padbury on her podcast, “Your day brighter: Real reasons to have hope in this world.” The duo discuss how they met, Izidor’s journey from orphan to advocate, and how they are producing a limited series based on his life story that they hope will change the world. [Listen on Spotify.](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2U7G9zon31fNX0cLavoTYH?si=4G2lWAWCSWWBYtt3en6P4g) [Listen on Apple Podcasts.](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/abandoned-adopted-advocate-izidor-ruckels-incredible/id1499417911?i=1000506710891) --- --- title: "IZIDOR limited series begins pre-production!" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-limited-series-begins-pre-production/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "The time has come! I never could have imagined this when I was ten. Izidor looks out his old window in 2015. Back then, I remember staring out the orphanage window for hours at a time, wondering if there was" last_modified: "2020-12-16T22:48:46+00:00" categories: [Limited Series, News, Press releases] tags: [donate, donation, Izidor, limited series, miniseries, movie, orphan, romania] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # IZIDOR limited series begins pre-production! The time has come!** I never could have imagined this when I was ten.** ![2015 - Izidor looking out his old window at orphanage](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2015-Izidor-looking-out-his-old-window-@-orphanage-scaled-1-471x710.jpg)Izidor looks out his old window in 2015. Back then, I remember staring out the orphanage window for hours at a time, wondering if there was anything beyond that barbed wire-lined wall around the building. Thirty years later, that memory still haunts me as I think about the children today who are still stuck in places like that, surviving on scraps of food and trying to avoid beatings for sometimes doing nothing more than breathing. Children deserve better. That’s what motivates me to keep telling my story, as loud and clear as I can. With your help, we can advocate for orphans around the globe. That’s the power of storytelling. And that’s why I’m very pleased to announce we have begun pre-production on [**IZIDOR**](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/izidor-limited-series-2/), a limited series (miniseries) based on my life story. We started a **fundraising campaign **for initial production costs, and I’m hoping you will help us out! To update you, here’s several new developments: - IZIDOR will be told in a live action narrative format that also incorporates dramatic animation. We are excited about how this new development brings more depth and clarity to the project. - We recently partnered with Dave Kabbe of Culture Shock Productions. His experience and passion for telling stories about human rights issues led him to us, and we are happy to have Dave on our team. - We’ve also partnered with[ The Film Collaborative](https://www.thefilmcollaborative.org/fiscalsponsorship/projects/izidor), a non-profit that offers fiscal sponsorship to filmmakers. That means our project can receive **tax deductible** **donations** through The Film Collaborative**!** ![Izidor limited series movie poster](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Izidor-poster-475x710.jpg) Now is an especially **great time to give**. Thanks to the CARES Act, from now through Dec. 31, 2020, the IRS has lifted all tax deduction limits! For more information on the CARES Act, click [here](https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/articles/what-the-cares-act-means-for-charitable-giving.html). Our first goal is to raise $100,000 to secure a professional production team and resources to bring this story to the world. **[CLICK HERE](https://www.thefilmcollaborative.org/fiscalsponsorship/projects/izidor) to give your tax-deductible donation now****! Your gift of $50, $100 or $500 would be greatly appreciated. ** The more awareness we can bring to the world about the ongoing struggles of orphans, the more we can change the world for good. Imagine a world where all children are treated with dignity, live in an environment of love, and have hope for the future. Then and only then can I say the pain I endured was worth it all. You are not alone, ### _Izidor_ _If you are interested in donating a more significant amount, please contact us directly._ ![Culture Shock Productions logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_2202-300x300.jpg) ![The Film Collaborative logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/tfc_logo_tfcorg_reg-300x116.png) [__](https://www.thefilmcollaborative.org/fiscalsponsorship/projects/izidor) --- --- title: "[ROMANIAN Translation] The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love?" url: "https://izidorstory.com/romanian-translation-the-atlantic-can-and-unloved-child-learn-to-love/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "The Atlantic's July 2020 feature article by Melissa Greene about Izidor Ruckel was translated into Romanian by DOR, Romania's leading magazine of literary nonfiction. It includes new photos of Izidor's journey. Read the story here in Romanian. Read the original story" last_modified: "2020-07-17T23:07:53+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News, Romanian news stories] tags: [Exclude] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # [ROMANIAN Translation] The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love? _The Atlantic’s_ July 2020 feature article by Melissa Greene about Izidor Ruckel was translated into Romanian by DOR, Romania’s leading magazine of literary nonfiction. It includes new photos of Izidor’s journey. Read the story [here](https://www.dor.ro/copil-neiubit-orfelinat/) in Romanian. Read the original story [here](https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/07/can-an-unloved-child-learn-to-love/612253/). --- --- title: "The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love?" url: "https://izidorstory.com/the-atlantic-can-an-uloved-child-learn-to-love/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "The Atlantic takes a deep dive into Izidor Ruckel's story of surviving a horrific Romanian orphanage. Presenting comprehensive analysis of institutionalized children from experts, the almost 9,000-word story is the most in-depth look to date of what he and tens" last_modified: "2020-06-18T15:15:08+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, U.S. news stories] tags: [30 year anniversary, Ceausescu, izidor ruckel, Orphans, romania, the atlantic] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # The Atlantic: Can an unloved child learn to love? _The Atlantic_ takes a deep dive into Izidor Ruckel’s story of surviving a horrific Romanian orphanage. Presenting comprehensive analysis of institutionalized children from experts, the almost 9,000-word story is the most in-depth look to date of what he and tens of thousands of Romanian orphans endured under Nicolae Ceaușescu’s Communist regime. Read _The Atlantic_ article [here](https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/07/can-an-unloved-child-learn-to-love/612253/). --- --- title: "Ruckel attends Romanian premiere of ‘The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman’" url: "https://izidorstory.com/ruckel-attends-romanian-premiere-of-the-story-of-us-with-morgan-freeman-and-heads-back-to-the-u-s/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Ruckel ends two years' service with successful event On January 10th, Izidor Ruckel attended the Romanian premiere of The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman in Bucharest. The event, held in Cinema Pro’s largest theater, drew over 400 people, including" last_modified: "2018-01-17T00:54:24+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Recommended, Romanian news stories] tags: [izidor ruckel, morgan freeman, the story of us] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Ruckel attends Romanian premiere of ‘The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman’ **Ruckel ends two years’ service with successful event** On January 10th, Izidor Ruckel attended the Romanian premiere of _The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman_ in Bucharest. The event, held in Cinema Pro’s largest theater, drew over 400 people, including journalists, social workers, NGO representatives, and Romanian adoptive parents. ![Izidor on stage at premiere of The Story of Us in Romania](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Izidor-on-stage-300x176.png) Attendees flocked to watch [the docuseries’ third episode, called “The Power of Love.”](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/the-story-of-us-with-morgan-freeman/episode-guide/season-01/episode-03-the-power-of-love/vdka13104273)  Subtitled in Romanian, the show featured Morgan Freeman interviewing Ruckel about his life as a Romanian orphan and his subsequent adoption by an American family. Freeman also interviewed Ruckel’s parents, Danny and Marlys Ruckel, who shared about trying to reach into Izidor’s broken heart. Alexandra Cadar-Lumei traveled all the way from Sighetu Marmației, the northern city where Ruckel’s orphanage was located, to attend the premiere. Cadar-Lumei is the superior councilor at the Department of Social Services and said the evening was “beautiful.” ![Ruckel and Cadar-Lumei](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Izidor-and-Aexandra-232x300.jpg)Ruckel and Cadar-Lumei “I once again had the certainty that the power of love would never make you feel small… incapable… Ugly…. weak…. worthless,” Cadar-Lumei posted on Facebook. Ruckel conducted a press conference after the viewing. Many Journalists and other audience members asked about Romania’s current state of orphan care. Ruckel invited several child welfare specialists onto the stage to assist in answering questions. The panel noted that although Romania is closing large orphanages, smaller orphanages are replacing them where children are still cared for by a rotating staff. “This approach misses the point as it fails to provide families for these children,” said Liviu Mihăileanu, president of [Romania Without Orphans Alliance](https://www.facebook.com/RomaniaWithoutOrphans/). ![Romanian premiere of The Story of Us](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Romania-premiere-1-225x300.jpg) Mihăileanu discussed ongoing legislative initiatives that could help speed up the in-country adoption process: lowering the number of relatives sought from the 4th degree, which includes great-great-grandparents, introducing sanctions for not respecting the deadlines in declaring a child adoptable, lowering the number of migrations within the system, and allowing accredited private organizations be more involved. Ruckel was pleased at the audience’s engagement. “They seemed to truly be interested in improving the current child welfare system,” Ruckel said. “They were asking what they could do to help. That was encouraging because stepping out and getting involved it what makes the changes happen.” ![Izidor being interviewed on TV](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2018-01-10-18.14.47-300x300.jpg)Photo by Mihai Popa Several media outlets attended the premiere, including Antenna 3, DIGI 24 and A7 TV. In addition, staff from the [La Măruță ](https://www.facebook.com/LaMaruta.ro/?fref=ts)show came to show their support to Ruckel. Ruckel worked with the La Măruță show for two years, facilitating adoptee reunions with their birth families. The next day, Ruckel made a final appearance on the La Măruță show. Ruckel now heads home to Denver, Colorado, after spending twenty-two months serving in Romania at [Love Light Romania,](http://www.lovelightromania.com/) a non-profit dedicated to providing support services to children, teenagers & families affected by HIV/AIDS. Ruckel worked as a teen mentor. “I’m grateful for the two years I got to spend in my home country. Serving the last two years in Romania changed me. My Romanian language skills are now much better, and I am more motivated than ever to help orphans get the respect and dignity they deserve.” ![Izidor limited series movie poster](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Izidor_poster5sm1-201x300.jpg) Ruckel said he will now focus on getting his autobiography turned into a [limited series](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-story/izidor-limited-series-2/). Through the project, called _Izidor_, Ruckel said he hopes to educate and inspire the world about the power of taking a risk on behalf of others. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” Ruckel said. “We all have something to give.” --- --- title: "Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseries" url: "https://izidorstory.com/morgan-freeman-interviews-izidor-ruckel-for-new-docuseries/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseriesThe Story of Us with Morgan Freeman highlights the power of love with Ruckel’s story LOS ANGELES, Calif., October 2, 2017 – Morgan Freeman interviewed Izidor Ruckel for the six-part docuseries The" last_modified: "2017-10-02T18:57:30+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, U.S. news stories] tags: [izidor ruckel, love, morgan freeman, orphan, orphanage, romania, the story of us] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseries ![Izidor logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IR-logo.jpg) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE **Morgan Freeman interviews Izidor Ruckel for new docuseries** _The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman_ highlights the power of love with Ruckel’s story LOS ANGELES, Calif., October 2, 2017 – Morgan Freeman interviewed Izidor Ruckel for the six-part docuseries_ The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman,_ premiering on National Geographic in the U.S. on October 11 at 9/8c, and globally in 171 countries and 45 languages in early 2018. An episode entitled “The Power of Love” includes Ruckel’s life story and will air as the third installment in the series on October 25, 2017. ![Los Angeles - Host Morgan Freeman meets with Izidor Ruckel](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/StoryOfUsWithMorganFreeman-Izidor-1-1200x800.jpg)Los Angeles – Host Morgan Freeman meets with Izidor Ruckel who discusses his horrific experience living in a Romanian orphanage as a child. (National Geographic/Justin Lubin) The series follows Freeman as he travels the world investigating ideas that unite mankind. In June, Freeman met with Ruckel at a park in Los Angeles to explore how the lack of familial love during early childhood shaped him. Ruckel spent the first eleven years of his life in a cruel Romanian orphanage for the “unsalvageables,” where lack of food and routine beatings stunted his growth physically and emotionally. Freeman also interviewed Ruckel’s American adoptive parents, Danny and Marlys Ruckel, on their attempts to reach such a broken boy with the meaning of love. “Morgan Freeman was truly curious to see how love has impacted someone who was locked away for so many years,” Ruckel said. “During the interview, I could sense that the stories he heard about the orphanage were truly shocking and eye opening for him.” ![Morgan Freeman and Izidor at picnic table, talking](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/StoryOfUsWithMorganFreeman-Izidor-2-1200x800.jpg)(National Geographic/Justin Lubin) Watch _The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman: The Power of Love_ on October 25th to see the impact of just one person showing love to Ruckel in the midst of his horrifying childhood. To find the National Geographic Channel in your country, visit: www.nationalgeographic.com/siteindex/international Izidor Ruckel is an orphan advocate who seeks to bring hope and dignity to children still suffering all over the world. Learn more at **IzidorRuckel.com**. ### Media Contact: Sarah Padbury Email: Sarah@IzidorRuckel.com --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune" url: "https://izidorstory.com/1461-2/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "PENTRU  DISTRIBUȚIE IMEDIATA Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune\"Povestea noastră\" cu Morgan Freeman evidențiază puterea dragostei prin povestea lui Izidor Ruckel. LOS ANGELES, Calif., 2 Octombrie, 2017 – Morgan Freeman la intervievat pe Ruckel pentru un" last_modified: "2017-10-02T14:35:17+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Romanian news stories] tags: [Izidor, love, morgan freeman, orphan] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune ![Izidor logo](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Izidor-Logo-Romanian-300x105.png) PENTRU  DISTRIBUȚIE IMEDIATA **Izidor Ruckel intervievat de Morgan Freeman pentru un serial de televiziune** “Povestea noastră” cu Morgan Freeman evidențiază puterea dragostei prin povestea lui Izidor Ruckel. LOS ANGELES, Calif., 2 Octombrie, 2017 – Morgan Freeman la intervievat pe Ruckel pentru un documentar ce face parte dintr-un serial, ce are șase părți, intitulat “Povestea noastră”, ce va avea premiera in USA, pe canalul National Geographic, pe 11 Octombrie la 9:00pm, coasta de est, sau 8:00pm, zona centrală. Documentarul va fi difuzat internațional în 171 de țări și 45 de limbi, la începutul lui 2018. Unul din episoade, care discută importanța dragostei, și include povestea de viață a lui Ruckel, va fi difuzat pe 25 octombrie 2017. Serialul îl însoțește pe Freeman într-o călătorie prin lume, investigând idei care unesc umanitatea. În iunie, Freeman s-a întâlnit cu Ruckel în Los Angeles pentru a afla cum acea lipsă din copilărie, a dragostei de familie, l-a format odată ajuns la maturitate. Ruckel și-a petrecut primii unsprezece ani din viață într-un orfelinat din România, cu condiții extrem de dure, destinat copiilor irecuperabili, unde lipsa de mâncare și bătăile frecvente i-au împiedicat dezvoltarea fizică și emoțională. Freeman a stat de vorbă și cu părinții adoptivi,  Danny și Marlys Ruckel, despre încercarea lor de a recupera un asemenea copil prin puterea dragostei. “Morgan Freeman a fost cu adevărat  curios să vadă cum a putut dragostea să aibe un impact asupra cuiva care a fost închis atâția ani” spune Ruckel. “Am putut vedea, în timpul interviului, cum povestea mea, despre orfelinat, pe care o asculta, l-a șocat și i-a deschis ochii.” ![Morgan Freeman and Izidor at picnic table, talking](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/StoryOfUsWithMorganFreeman-Izidor-2-1200x800.jpg)(National Geographic/Justin Lubin) Urmăriți “Povestea noastră” pe 25 octombrie pentru  pentru a vedea impactul unei singure persoane care i-a arătat dragoste lui Izidor în mijlocul unei copilării terifiante. Pentru a găsi Canalul National Geographic în țara voastră, vizitați www.nationalgeographic.com/siteindex/international. Izidor Ruckel este acum o voce pentru orfani, care încearcă să aducă speranță și demnitate copiilor care încă suferă, oriunde în lume.  Pentru a afla mai multe detalii vizitați  www.**IzidorRuckel.com**. ### --- --- title: "BAMA Mediaworks: Budapest, Hungary" url: "https://izidorstory.com/bama-mediaworks-budapest-hungary/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel is interviewed regarding a report by the Romanian Prosecutor's Office on the Crime of Communism (IICCMER), which documents the era's lack of care for orphans. (Story archived.)" last_modified: "2017-08-23T20:49:09+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [Hungary, IICCMER, Izidor, orphan, romania] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # BAMA Mediaworks: Budapest, Hungary Izidor Ruckel is interviewed regarding a report by the Romanian Prosecutor’s Office on the Crime of Communism (IICCMER), which documents the era’s lack of care for orphans. _(Story archived.)_ --- --- title: "Antena 1 Observator: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/antena-1-observator-bucharest-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor, supravieţuitorul din „Orfelinatul Groazei“ din Sighetu Marmaţiei: Există copii care. The Observator interviews Izidor Ruckel about the long-term effects of orphanage life. Watch the interview here." last_modified: "2017-06-01T19:22:07+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] tags: [Izidor, orphan, ProTV, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Antena 1 Observator: Bucharest, Romania Izidor, supravieţuitorul din „Orfelinatul Groazei“ din Sighetu Marmaţiei: Există copii care. _The Observator_ interviews Izidor Ruckel about the long-term effects of orphanage life. Watch the interview [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVgI6M79lVQ). --- --- title: "Izidor’s first 10 months in Romania – and counting!" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidors-first-10-months-in-romania-and-counting/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "In April 2016, as Izidor was packing up to head back to the United States after a one-month visit to Romania, he received a one-year job offer from Love Light Romania (LLR). Izidor decided to stay and work with the" last_modified: "2017-02-14T19:44:37+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] tags: [camp, HIV, izidor ruckel, love light romania, orphan] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor’s first 10 months in Romania – and counting! In April 2016, as Izidor was packing up to head back to the United States after a one-month visit to Romania, he received a one-year job offer from [Love Light Romania](http://www.lovelightromania.com/) (LLR). Izidor decided to stay and work with the nonprofit whose mission it is to serve orphans and the poor around Medias. Ten months later, his stay has made a difference in the lives of many children in the community – and he’s decided to stay longer. **Mentor ** ![Persida and Cristi](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Cristy-and-Persida-2017-1-300x300.jpg) Izidor’s main responsibility at LLR is to mentor two live-in teenagers, Persida (15) and Cristi (14). Izidor has spent hundreds of hours with the siblings hoping to teach them life and relationship skills, as well taking them into town for fun getaways. “They’ve taught me a thing or two, as well,” Izidor reported. “Izidor has provided Persida and Cristi with a lot of encouragement and support,” said Jo Jewett, Director and Co-Founder of Love Light Romania. “It was important they rely on a person they trust, who they can look to for advice and guidance. He’s not just their mentor, they look at him as an older brother.” **Summer Camp** ![Izidor and children at summer camp](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Izidor-summer-camp-300x169.jpg) Izidor assisted LLR with running several rounds of summer camp for children from the surrounding villages. In all, over 100 children attended camp for a week at time, enjoying activities like living in tents, rock climbing, soccer, archery, and wheel barrel races. Most of the children had never been away from their families before and especially appreciated the evening ritual of music around a large campfire. “Within three days I was already seeing big changes in the children,” Izidor said. “They changed from angry kids to having fun and laughing; from stealing to being honest; from being rude to respectful and helpful. In the end, they didn’t want to leave because they had so much fun and made new friends.” **La Maruta** ![Adoptee reunion](https://izidorruckel.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Adoptee-Reunion-300x169.jpg) In addition to working with LLR, Izidor continued facilitating adoptee reunions with the help of ProTV’s [La Maruta](https://www.facebook.com/LaMaruta.ro/?fref=ts) show. His nine-day run on the live talk show in 2015 with his birth mom and adoptive mom launched him into becoming a [household name in Romania](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-ruckel-concludes-2-month-tour-of-romania-orphan-florica-popescu-oradea-brasov-bucharest-protv/). The relationship he built with the production team led to a part-time position with the network. In all, Izidor helped eight adoptees meet their birth families on the show. He also privately facilitated two other reunions. “Although I enjoyed helping families reunite, I won’t be continuing to offer this service,” Izidor said. “I hope the best for everyone involved, especially that it brings peace for the adoptees to know their roots.” **Advocating** ![Izidor speaking at ARFO](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Izidor-ARFO-speech-300x169.jpg) Over the past ten months, Izidor has also continued his advocacy work for those still entrapped in state institutions. In October, he was a featured speaker at the Romania Without Orphans Gala held in Bucharest. The event offered traumatized parenting training by bringing together several international adoption specialists with Romanians who had adopted, or wanted to adopt. Izidor was also invited to a government meeting in December for the Ministry of Social Protection for Families. He participated in talks about how to stop orphans from “aging out” into the streets through changing the system to include transitional housing with job and life skills training. “We have to be willing to work with the government if we really want to make lasting change. I’m careful not to focus on blame, but on solutions.” **A Special Guest** ![Izidor and his dad, Danny Ruckel](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Izdior-and-dad-165x300.jpg) In September, Izidor’s dad, Danny Ruckel, visited from the United States. It was his first visit to Romania. “Having my dad here was amazing. I never thought I’d have the opportunity to share with him my history of Romania,” Izidor said. “My dad is an excellent guitar player and he even took the time to teach Cristi some guitar lessons.” **Future Plans** “I recently made the choice to stay another year in Romania,” Izidor said. “I have high hopes that I can continue making a difference at Love Light Romania and will also keep advocating to change the social welfare system here. I do believe in working together with government officials and plan to develop ongoing relationships with like-minded parliament leaders and local advocates.” Izidor will remain in Romania until Spring 2018. **Final Note: Supporting Love Light Romania** Over the last several months, many of Izidor’s international supporters have mailed goods and supplies to Love Light Romania to support its mission.He is very grateful for their aid. But due to high shipping costs, and the fact that the Romanian mail system is not dependable, Izidor requests sponsors consider making a financial donation instead so that supplies can be bought locally. To support Love Light Romania, [click here](http://www.lovelightromania.com/?page_id=1647). --- --- title: "Mix Actual: Brașov, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/mix-actual-brasov-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel and Azota Popescu (left) of the Catharsis Association interview on Mix Actual inBrașov, Romania. Watch the full interview here." last_modified: "2016-09-27T23:09:00+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] tags: [adoption, azota, Izidor, love light romania, orphan, orphanage, popescu, roma] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Mix Actual: Brașov, Romania ![Izidor and Azota on TV set](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Izidor-and-Azota-on-Mix-Actual-710x478.png) Izidor Ruckel and Azota Popescu (left) of the [Catharsis Association](http://www.catharsis.org.ro/) interview on _Mix Actual_ inBrașov, Romania. Watch the full interview [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ds-G2iLj3aE). --- --- title: "Breaking News: Izidor Ruckel moves to Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/breaking-news-izidor-ruckel-moves-to-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "BUCHAREST, ROMANIA>> In a Bucharest apartment last week, Izidor Ruckel was packing to return to the United States when his phone buzzed. “Hi Izidor, sorry do not want to disturb you, I know you are busy,” said the text message." last_modified: "2016-04-25T19:35:57+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] tags: [izidor ruckel, love light romania, mentor, move, romania] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Breaking News: Izidor Ruckel moves to Romania BUCHAREST, ROMANIA>> In a Bucharest apartment last week, Izidor Ruckel was packing to return to the United States when his phone buzzed. “Hi Izidor, sorry do not want to disturb you, I know you are busy,” said the text message. “But I really would like to talk with you about something…” The next sentence stunned him: “We are in the position to offer you a job…” Ruckel, who resides in Denver, Colorado, spent the last month in Romania. The first part of the trip he facilitated a reunion between a former orphan (adopted by an American family in 1999) and his birth family. Adoptee Michael Slein, his adoptive family, and his biological family were featured together on the _La Maruta_ show on March 28th in a meeting that brought healing and hope. Ruckel then met up with Sarah Padbury and Serena Orrego, colleagues from The States, who joined Ruckel for a visit to his hometown of Sighetu Marmatiei. Ruckel became the face of institutionalized orphans worldwide when the press discovered him in a horrific orphanage in 1990, soon followed by his adoption into an American family. The trio visited the orphanage (now an abandoned building) and interviewed several former workers and residents. The research trip was organized to confirm the facts of Ruckel’s journey to America in order to turn his life story into a feature film. “We were astounded at how well Izidor’s childhood memories lined up with the recollections of the adults who were there,” Padbury said. “We found evidence of every person Izidor remembered and confirmation of the events he experienced.” For more information on the upcoming movie, visit [IzidorTheMovie.com](http://Izidorthemovie.com). During his travels, Ruckel also visited an NGO called [Love Light Romania](http://www.lovelightromania.com/) (LLR) located in Medias, a town of about 50,000 in Sibiu County. LLR was founded by Ron and Jo Jowett in 2000. The British couple first began visiting Romania to help its orphans in the mid-1990s and soon found they needed to be available full-time to be truly effective in their work. They sold all they had and moved permanently to Romania. Today LLR operates several programs to help Romania’s orphans, including a home and resources for HIV/AIDS infected children and an education program to help families escape poverty. Helping the orphan is a part of Ruckel’s heartbeat. So when the Jowetts offered him a one-year contract to work at LLR as a mentor to teenagers, he was thrilled. “I never thought that the time would come when I would be able to live in Romania and be employed,” Ruckel said. “Life is full of surprises and I’m truly honored that the opportunity has knocked.” Ruckel has dreamed of working in Romania for many years and is starting his new position immediately. Instead of traveling back to Colorado, he took a train to Medias and is currently settling in. Godspeed! --- --- title: "ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/protvs-la-maruta-bucharest-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor, filmul copiilor salvati din Iad Cătălin Măruță, well-known host of the talk show \"La Măruță,\" interviewed Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, about Izidor's efforts to turn his life story into a film. Watch the interview here." last_modified: "2016-04-18T19:04:34+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania ![Izidor and Sarah on ProTV LaMaruta set](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Screen-Shot-2017-08-17-at-1.00.10-PM-300x168.jpg) Izidor, filmul copiilor salvati din Iad Cătălin Măruță, well-known host of the talk show “La Măruță,” interviewed Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, about Izidor’s efforts to turn his life story into a film. Watch the interview [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOlDzQrVaUc&t=89s). --- --- title: "BBC News: London, United Kingdom" url: "https://izidorstory.com/bbc-news-london-united-kingdom-uk/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "The Brixton Broadcasting Corporation (BBC News) interviewed Izidor Ruckel about growing up in a Romanian orphanage. View the story on BBC News. (4 minutes) Listen to the BBC Radio interview. (11 minutes)" last_modified: "2016-04-06T18:41:03+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News, Recommended] tags: [BBC, Izidor, orphan, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # BBC News: London, United Kingdom The Brixton Broadcasting Corporation (BBC News) interviewed Izidor Ruckel about growing up in a Romanian orphanage. [View the story on _BBC News_.](https://www.bbc.com/news/av/magazine-35944245/growing-up-in-a-romanian-orphanage) (4 minutes) [Listen to the _BBC Radio_ interview. ](https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07500xw)(11 minutes) --- --- title: "BBC Radio: London, United Kingdom" url: "https://izidorstory.com/bbc-radio-interviews-izidor-ruckel/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "BBC Radio in-depth interview with Izidor Ruckel on Mar. 28, 2016 about institutionalized life in Communist Romania. Listen to the BBC Radio interview. (11 minutes) View the BBC News story. (4 minutes)" last_modified: "2016-03-29T15:52:57+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [BBC, Izidor, orphan, radio, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # BBC Radio: London, United Kingdom _BBC Radio _in-depth interview with Izidor Ruckel on Mar. 28, 2016 about institutionalized life in Communist Romania. [Listen to the BBC Radio interview.](http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07500xw) (11 minutes) [View the BBC News story.](https://www.bbc.com/news/av/magazine-35944245/growing-up-in-a-romanian-orphanage) (4 minutes) --- --- title: "Los Angeles Times: Former Romanian orphan in the U.S. helps…" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-featured-in-los-angeles-times/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Los Angeles Times reporter John M. Glionna traveled to Colorado in 2015 to interview Izidor Ruckel. The meeting reunited Glionna and Ruckel for the first time since 1991. Glionna's first story covered Ruckel's transition into his new adoptive family after arriving in America at" last_modified: "2016-01-04T18:13:12+00:00" categories: [News, U.S. news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Los Angeles Times: Former Romanian orphan in the U.S. helps… ![Article about Izidor in LA Times](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Screen-Shot-2017-08-17-at-1.52.01-PM-300x160.jpg) _Los Angeles Times _reporter John M. Glionna traveled to Colorado in 2015 to interview Izidor Ruckel. The meeting reunited Glionna and Ruckel for the first time since 1991. Glionna’s [first story ](http://articles.latimes.com/1991-11-29/news/mn-197_1_san-diego)covered Ruckel’s transition into his new adoptive family after arriving in America at age eleven. What is Ruckel’s life like now, almost 25 years later? [Click here](https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-romanian-orphan-20151203-story.html) to read Glionna’s latest story from 2015. --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel reveals new film on live radio show" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-interviewed-on-stacy-petty-show-movie-sarah-padbury-radio/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, participated in a two-hour radio interview on the Stacy Petty Show on Friday, Aug. 7. The live broadcast is a daily show on 1310 KFKA, a news talk AM radio station, based in Greeley, Colo., within reach of one million" last_modified: "2015-08-08T15:56:34+00:00" categories: [Limited Series, News, Press releases] custom_fields: enclosure: "https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Stacy-Petty-Show-Hour-2.mp3\n19455189\naudio/mpeg" site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel reveals new film on live radio show Izidor Ruckel and his manager, Sarah Padbury, participated in a two-hour radio interview on the Stacy Petty Show on Friday, Aug. 7. The live broadcast is a daily show on 1310 KFKA, a news talk AM radio station, based in Greeley, Colo., within reach of one million listeners across northern Colorado. [![Sarah Padbury, Stacy Petty and Izidor Ruckel in studio at 1310 KFKA talk radio.](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Padbury-Petty-Ruckel-on-KFKA-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Padbury-Petty-Ruckel-on-KFKA.jpg)Sarah Padbury, Stacy Petty and Izidor Ruckel in studio at 1310 KFKA talk radio. Petty interviewed the duo about several issues surrounding adoption. Ruckel described his experience growing up in a horrific Romanian orphanage before he was adopted by an American family at age 11. Padbury, an adoption advocate, talked about her life as the mother of six adopted children. Together they are working on turning Ruckel’s life story into a feature film, called _Izidor._ [![Izidor Ruckel on Stacy Petty Show](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Izidior-on-KFKA-165x300.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Izidior-on-KFKA.jpg)The film follows Ruckel and eight of his orphanage friends when they are discovered in 1990 by American media after the fall of Communism in Romania. It also portrays several adults, both Romanian and American, who chose to risk their own lives on behalf of the orphans, convinced that their lives were worth saving. Ruckel concluded the interview by revealing he hopes the movie will not only inspire audiences to get involved in orphan care, but hopes it will change history for today’s orphans still imprisoned in institutions. “If I were to die, I’d like to finish one legacy,” Ruckel said. “Let me make history with this movie… to ensure that this history does not happen again – not only in Romania, but all across the world.” Listen to the radio interview (2 links): Stacy Petty Show — part 1 [https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Stacy-Petty-Show-Hour-1.mp3](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Stacy-Petty-Show-Hour-1.mp3) Stacy Petty Show — part 2 [https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Stacy-Petty-Show-Hour-2.mp3](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Stacy-Petty-Show-Hour-2.mp3) ### To receive Izidor Ruckel updates, sign up [here](http://izidorruckel.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=6731c447fc725229f97107725&id=827293787c). To contact Izidor Ruckel, click [here](https://izidorruckel.com/contact-us/). --- --- title: "TVR: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/tvr-bucharest-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Abandonaţi pe viaţă. Poveşti din orfelinatele groazei. Izidor Ruckel, several other adoptees, and government officials discuss Romanian international adoption issues. Watch the TVR story here." last_modified: "2015-07-15T19:31:42+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] tags: [Izidor, orphan, romania, Ruckel TVR] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # TVR: Bucharest, Romania Abandonaţi pe viaţă. Poveşti din orfelinatele groazei. Izidor Ruckel, several other adoptees, and government officials discuss Romanian international adoption issues. Watch the TVR story [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATjPf4rZv7w&t=19s). --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel concludes 2-month tour of Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-concludes-2-month-tour-of-romania-orphan-florica-popescu-oradea-brasov-bucharest-protv/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel returned to the United States in early May after a two-month stay in Romania, his birth country. Due to major press coverage around the country and across Europe throughout his trip, citizens began approaching Ruckel in every city" last_modified: "2015-05-31T00:22:26+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] tags: [Izidor, orphan, report, romania, ruckel, trip] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel concludes 2-month tour of Romania Izidor Ruckel returned to the United States in early May after a two-month stay in Romania, his birth country. Due to major press coverage around the country and across Europe throughout his trip, citizens began approaching Ruckel in every city he toured, including Bucharest, Cluj, Brasov, and Oreada. Several national and international media outlets interviewed Ruckel, including national television broadcasters [_ProTV_](https://izidorruckel.com/izidor-ruckel-a-hit-on-live-romanian-tv/) and _[Sirile TVR](http://stiri.tvr.ro/salvati-din-orfelinate-acum-vor-ei-sa-ajute-copiii-orfani-din-romania_58125.html)_. Major newspapers also featured Ruckel: _[Ziare Live](http://www.ziarelive.ro/despre/izidor-ruckel.html),_ _[Stiri.com](http://www.stiri.com.ro/stire-85866/romanii-adoptati-peste-granite-s-au-intors-in-tara-sa-militeze-pentru-adoptiile-internationale.html#.VWpScmRVikp),_ and [_Buna Ziua Brasov_](http://www.bzb.ro/stire/adoptati-sau-abandonati-pe-viata-a84692). In addition, he participated in a lengthy interview by _[Radio Transilvania](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=incvTdBBWDc) _with two other international adoptees that was aired across Europe. “Everywhere I went, people recognized me,” Ruckel said. “Many stopped me on the spot to talk to me, saying that my story had inspired them to re-think about how they treat orphans and disabled people. I was so surprised and moved by this new generations’ openness to my message. Times have changed in Romania.” Ruckel held three speaking engagements during his tour. In Brasov, Faget, and Cluj he spoke through a translator to hundreds of people, raising awareness of orphan issues and inspiring local communities to help the needy in their midst. Ruckel shared his story of what life was like as an institutionalized, disabled orphan at the end of Communist rule in the 1990s. He emphasized the God-given value of each person, regardless of disability, and the right of every child to a family. Because adoption radically changed his life, Ruckel said his heart’s deepest desire is to see the same opportunity available for other orphans. [![speaking engagment 1](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/speaking-engagment-1-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/speaking-engagment-1.jpg) [![Izidor Ruckel Branov speaking engagement](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/speaking-engagement-2-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/speaking-engagement-2.jpg) _Alex Kuch, Veronica Clark and Izidor Ruckel speak in Branov. Engagement hosted by Azota Popescu (right) of the [Catharsis Association](http://www.catharsis.org.ro/)._ “I’m an adamant supporter of reopening Romania’s doors to international adoption, particularly for special needs children who cannot find a new family within Romania,” Ruckel said. “There are many people who would welcome a disabled child, if the government would change the current laws to make it possible. All children deserve the opportunity for a family, be they from Romania or from another country or from the moon.” Ruckel succeeded in meeting with several politicians regarding the current condition of the country’s state-run social welfare system. Parliamentarian [Florica Chereches](https://www.facebook.com/florica.chereches) is well known across Romania for her advocacy on behalf of orphans. She met with Ruckel on several occasions and invited guests to hear him speak. [![Calin Puia, Izidor Ruckel and Florica Chereches](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Izidor-Florica-and-Calin-in-Oradea.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Izidor-Florica-and-Calin-in-Oradea.jpg)Calin Puia, Izidor Ruckel and Florica Chereches Chereches also introduced Ruckel to Calin Puia, director of the County Child Protection Department for Bihor County. Puia met with Ruckel in Oradea, the county’s capital city, and patiently answered Ruckel’s questions regarding the systems in place today for displaced children. Ruckel also toured an orphanage in the city and reported a vast contrast in conditions compared to when he lived in an institution 25 years ago. “I was impressed with the orphanage conditions,” Ruckel said. “The children were not zombies and they were actually attending school. The conditions were clean and each child had his own bed and a dresser – much different than when we slept four-to-a-bed on urine-soaked mattresses. The staff is also training them how to cook and clean.” In July, Ruckel will release a full report on his trip. The report will present Ruckel’s findings on the current state of Romania’s orphans, the improvements he hopes to see in the future, and what organizations are currently doing good work in-country. He will also reveal how the journey affected him personally, including visiting his old orphanage and meeting more of his biological family for the first time ever. We’ll keep you posted! Sign up for updates on Izidor Ruckel [HERE](http://izidorruckel.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=6731c447fc725229f97107725&id=827293787c). --- --- title: "Radio Transilvania: Cluj, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidors-interview-on-radio-transilvania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Radio Transilvania interview with international adoptees Izidor Ruckel, Veronica Clark and Alex Kush in Cluj, Romania. \"My goal in Romania is to create advocacy with citizens within the country.  the purpose for international adoption that I am personally fighting for" last_modified: "2015-04-03T17:35:07+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Radio Transilvania: Cluj, Romania _Radio Transilvania_ interview with international adoptees Izidor Ruckel, Veronica Clark and Alex Kush in Cluj, Romania. “My goal in Romania is to create advocacy with citizens within the country. [Also,] the purpose for international adoption that I am personally fighting for is the children with  special needs – those that cannot be adopted by Romanian families – should be available for international adoption.” [Listen to the entire interview on _Radio Transilvania_.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=incvTdBBWDc) --- --- title: "TVR 1: Brașov, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/salvati-din-orfelinate-acum-vor-ei-sa-ajute-copiii-orfani-din-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "lvaţi din orfelinate. Acum vor ei să ajute copiii orfani din România A Stirile TVR1 news story announcing Izidor and Alex Kush's speaking engagement in Brașov, Romania. \"...After nearly a quarter century, Isidor and Alexander, two young adopted from the former" last_modified: "2015-03-22T04:56:40+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # TVR 1: Brașov, Romania lvaţi din orfelinate. Acum vor ei să ajute copiii orfani din România A_ Stirile TVR1_ news story announcing Izidor and Alex Kush’s speaking engagement in Brașov, Romania. “…After nearly a quarter century, Isidor and Alexander, two young adopted from the former communist Romania, now returned to the country to help children in orphanages…” _(Story archived.)_ --- --- title: "Romanian Global News: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-isi-reintalneste-in-romania-familia-biologica-care-l-a-abandonat-si-colegii-din-orfelinatul-groazei-de-la-sighet-la-24-de-ani-de-la-adoptie/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel îşi reîntâlneşte, în România, familia biologică care l-a abandonat şi colegii din orfelinatul groazei de la Sighet, la 24 de ani de la adopţie Romanian Global News featured Izidor's spring 2015 trip to Romania and his efforts to help" last_modified: "2015-03-17T23:13:12+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Romanian Global News: Bucharest, Romania Izidor Ruckel îşi reîntâlneşte, în România, familia biologică care l-a abandonat şi colegii din orfelinatul groazei de la Sighet, la 24 de ani de la adopţie _Romanian Global News_ featured Izidor’s spring 2015 trip to Romania and his efforts to help the country’s orphans. _(Story archived.)_ --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel a hit on live Romanian TV" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-a-hit-on-live-romanian-tv/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Ruckel’s Facebook page explodes during six nights of live interviews on ProTV’s “La Măruță” Izidor and Marlys visit Tasnad, Romania BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 3/17/15: Izidor Ruckel’s scheduled 2-day interview on ProTV’s “La Măruță” was extended to 6 days on the live" last_modified: "2015-03-17T18:36:24+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel a hit on live Romanian TV **Ruckel’s Facebook page explodes during six nights of live interviews on _ProTV’s _“La Măruță”** [![Izidor and Marlys visit Tasnad, Romania](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izidor-and-Marlys-in-Tasnad-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izidor-and-Marlys-in-Tasnad.jpg)Izidor and Marlys visit Tasnad, Romania _BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 3/17/15:_ Izidor Ruckel’s scheduled 2-day interview on ProTV’s [“La Măruță](https://www.facebook.com/LaMaruta.ro/info?tab=page_info)” was extended to 6 days on the live broadcast as the show’s ratings skyrocketed last week. Izidor surprised the audience by revealing his adoptive mother, Marlys Ruckel, had returned to Romania with him. [![Website visits by country](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/website-visits-by-country-286x300.png)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/website-visits-by-country.png)Website visits by country The exposure sent Izidor’s public [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Izidor-Ruckel/467801940038720?sk=timeline) stats soaring with new page “likes,” up 159,163.2% in just four days. Today, the page continues to gain momentum hourly with over 43,000 “likes.” In addition, his website [IzidorRuckel.com](https://izidorruckel.com/) experienced a flood of traffic as thousands of visitors from Romania, the United States, and across the globe checked out the site. The initial broadcast on Mar. 9 revealed video of the mother and son traveling back to the orphanage in Sighetu Marmatiei where Marlys first met Izidor as a 10-year-old boy in 1991. The footage showed Izidor, sometimes on the verge of tears, walking through the rooms of the now abandoned institution and telling stories of his difficult life there, including pointing out where countless babies and several friends had died of abuse or neglect. Marlys stated it was difficult to revisit the orphanage, but she was grateful it was closed and there were no longer children housed there. TV host [Cătălin Măruță](https://www.facebook.com/CatalinMarutaOficial) asked Izidor what it was like to be adopted after living in such horrible conditions for so long. “It’s like I was reborn,” Izidor said, sitting comfortably next to his mom on a floral couch on the brightly lit set. “I just wanted someone to love me and accept me for who I am. And she did.” When asked what he thinks of when he hears the word “mother,” Izidor had a one word reply: Marlys. Izidor endured six surgeries to save his legs after coming to America, which were withered due to contracting polio as a baby. Marlys described how she never left his side during his hospital stays, except for the last surgery, where his father, Danny Ruckel, remained with him. Izidor noted Marlys even remained faithful during his rebellious years. “She _is _my mother,” he said. “There’s no doubt about it.” [![TV Host Catalin Maruta and Izidor Ruckel on the set of "La Maruta"](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izidor-and-host-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izidor-and-host.jpg)TV Host Catalin Maruta and Izidor Ruckel on the set of “La Maruta” Măruță surprised the two with an unexpected guest, Anca Maxim. Twenty-four years ago, Marlys spent seven weeks in Romania attempting to finalize the paperwork to adopt Izidor. Anca was Marlys’ translator and assistant. When Marlys had to return home to take care of her other three children, Anca helped finish up the court requirements in Romania, and then escorted Izidor to America. The women were delighted to be reunited. [![Catalin Maruta and Marlys, Romania's favorite adoptive mother](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Marlys-and-host-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Marlys-and-host.jpg)Catalin Maruta and Marlys, Romania’s favorite adoptive mother On Mar. 11, the show brought on another surprise guest, Izidor’s biological mother, Maria. Izidor and Marlys had traveled to Tasnad the week before where Marlys and Maria met for the first time. Maria presented conflicting stories of the circumstances surrounding Izidor’s adoption, leading to tension on the set. Maria offered to take a polygraph test, which she failed. The 3-night controversy sent the show’s ratings through the roof, and led to much public criticism of Maria. But Izidor attempted to put an end to the attacks by telling Maria that he was not angry with her, believed she did what she thought was best for him at the time, and forgave her for abandoning him. “Eveyone is picking on her because she abandoned me,” he told Măruță. “But what about the other 160,000 abandoned children? Where are _their_ parents?” In a Facebook posted dated Mar. 15, Izidor made another public plea. “If you believe in God then you know that God has already asked you not to judge others unless you want to be judged as well,” he wrote. “So what I am asking [is] this – do not be harsh to my birth mother and do not judge her for how she responded and how she was on TV. [![Izidor and Marlys with his biological parents, Izidor Sr. and Maria](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izi-Marlys-Izidor-Sr-Maria-300x169.jpg)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Izi-Marlys-Izidor-Sr-Maria.jpg)Izidor and Marlys with his biological parents, Izidor Sr. and Maria “… She may not understand a lot of things and that is OK for me. If she did not do what she did by putting me into an orphanage, I would not be here today and I would have not had the opportunity that I had. Please remember this God allowed this to happen for a purpose.” Izidor pointed to his faith in Christ as the source of his ability to forgive and be emotionally healed from his past trauma. In addition, he credited the compassion and guidance of his adoptive parents and siblings: “It is through their example that I have become an advocate for orphans’ rights.” Izidor now travels to Brasov, where he will hold a [speaking engagement](https://www.facebook.com/events/654812941307698/) on Saturday, Mar. 21, with two other former Romanian orphans, Alex Kuch (adopted by a German family) and Veronica Clark (adopted by an American family). The trio will be advocating for the right of every child to a family, including re-opening Romania’s doors to international adoption for those who cannot be placed with families within the country. The event is open to the public and will be held at the 5-star Aro Palace hotel in the Europa Conference Center, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ### --- --- title: "ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-on-protvs-la-maruta-adoption-international-romania-orphan/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "On March 9, 2015, Izidor Ruckel was interviewed on live TV by Cătălin Măruţă on ProTV's \"La Măruţă\" in Bucharest, Romania. His appearance on the show was extended to six days (Mar 9-13 and 16) due to skyrocketing ratings when his adoptive mom," last_modified: "2015-03-16T22:50:21+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # ProTV’s La Măruţă: Bucharest, Romania [![la maruta title](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/la-maruta-title.png)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/la-maruta-title.png) On March 9, 2015, Izidor Ruckel was interviewed on live TV by [Cătălin Măruţă](https://www.facebook.com/CatalinMarutaOficial?ref=br_tf) on ProTV’s “La Măruţă” in Bucharest, Romania. His appearance on the show was extended to six days (Mar 9-13 and 16) due to skyrocketing ratings when his adoptive mom, birth mom, and several other surprise guests were brought onto the show. [![La Maruta editions list](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/La-Maruta-editions-21-300x283.png)](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/La-Maruta-editions-21.png)Watch the shows here: Edition 127 : 3 videos Edition 128: 3 videos Edition 129: 5 videos Edition 130: 4 videos Edition 131: 3 videos _(Story archived.)_ --- --- title: "Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-s-a-reintalnit-cu-parintii-care-l-au-abandonat-in-orfelinatul-groazei-din-sighet-reactia-mamei-sale-biologice_adoption_romania_ruckel/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor s-a reintalnit cu parintii care l-au abandonat in orfelinatul groazei din Sighet. Reactia mamei sale biologice A Stirile ProTV news story featuring Izidor's return to Romania in March 2015 and reunion with his biological parents. \"Izidor reunited with parents who" last_modified: "2015-03-13T04:34:15+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania Izidor s-a reintalnit cu parintii care l-au abandonat in orfelinatul groazei din Sighet. Reactia mamei sale biologice A_ Stirile ProTV_ news story featuring Izidor’s return to Romania in March 2015 and reunion with his biological parents. “Izidor reunited with parents who abandoned him in an orphanage of horrors in Sighet. His biological mother’s reaction…” [Watch the full video at_ ProTV.ro._](http://stirileprotv.ro/stiri/stirileprotv-special/izidor-tanarul-salvat-din-orfelinatul-groazei-de-la-sighet-si-a-revazut-parintii-biologici-ce-spune-despre-acestia.html) --- --- title: "Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/povestea-lui-izidor-tanarul-salvat-din-iad-acum-20-de-ani-cosmarul-trait-in-caminul-pentru-minori-din-sighetul-marmatiei_ruckel_adoption_romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Povestea lui Izidor, tanarul salvat din \"iad\" acum 20 de ani. Cosmarul trait in caminul pentru minori din Sighetul Marmatiei A Stirile ProTV news story featuring Izidor touring his old orphanage with his adoptive mom in March, 2015. \"Izidor's story," last_modified: "2015-03-12T04:12:50+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania Povestea lui Izidor, tanarul salvat din “iad” acum 20 de ani. Cosmarul trait in caminul pentru minori din Sighetul Marmatiei A_ Stirile ProTV_ news story featuring Izidor touring his old orphanage with his adoptive mom in March, 2015. “Izidor’s story, the young man rescued from ‘hell’ 20 years ago who lived in a nightmare home for minors in Sighetu Marmatiei…” [Watch the full video at_ ProTV.ro._](http://stirileprotv.ro/stiri/stirileprotv-special/povestea-lui-izidor-tanarul-salvat-din-iad-acum-20-de-ani-cosmarul-trait-in-caminul-pentru-minori-din-sighetul-marmatiei.html) --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel touring Romania with ProTV" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-touring-romania-with-protv/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Former Romanian orphan visits his old orphanage and birth family BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 3/7/15: Izidor Ruckel, America’s most well-known Romanian adoptee, arrived in Romania March 1. On his first trip back to his home country in a decade, Izidor is spending" last_modified: "2015-03-08T06:29:53+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel touring Romania with ProTV Former Romanian orphan visits his old orphanage and birth family BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 3/7/15: Izidor Ruckel, America’s most well-known Romanian adoptee, arrived in Romania March 1. On his first trip back to his home country in a decade, Izidor is spending the first two weeks of a two-month visit touring the country with _ProTV_. _ProTV’s_ [Irina Fodor ](https://www.facebook.com/irina.fodor.9?fref=photo)is traveling with Ruckel as he re-traces his former life in Romania, including visiting his orphanage in Sighetu Marmației, a small northern town on the Romanian-Ukrainian border, and meeting up with his birth family. ![Irina Fodor with Ruckels autobiography](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Irina_Fodor.jpg)Irina Fodor with Ruckel’s autobiography Ruckel brought Fodor a copy of his autobiography _Abandoned for Life_ for her review. He hopes to communicate his love for his home country, especially for the children who still struggle as unwanted orphans, as he once did. “I do not want to embarrass my home country or rehash the wrongs of the past,” Ruckel said. “Instead, I want to be a part of Romania moving into the future: a future where all children, no matter what their parents’ circumstances, are seen as precious and worthy of respect, education and opportunity.” Ruckel will be a guest on [La Măruță](https://www.facebook.com/LaMaruta.ro/info?tab=page_info), _ProTV’s_ primetime entertainment news magazine, on Monday and Tuesday, March 9-10, airing at 5:30 p.m. Romanian time. Ruckel encourages viewers to tune in for footage of his visit to the orphanage he lived at for the first 11 years of his life, as well as his first time meeting relatives from his extended biological family. In addition, Ruckel has a big surprise for planned for the live show. Tune in Monday to see his announcement! ![Ruckel with his biological family](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Ruckel_biological_family.jpg)Ruckel with his biological family --- --- title: "Izidor Ruckel to visit Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-to-visit-romania/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Former Romanian orphan to meet with officials to discuss improving orphan’s conditions DENVER, CO, 1/15/15: Izidor Ruckel, America’s most well-known Romanian adoptee, is traveling to Romania in March to meet with government officials and child welfare workers to discuss ways" last_modified: "2015-01-15T12:00:53+00:00" categories: [News, Press releases] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Izidor Ruckel to visit Romania Former Romanian orphan to meet with officials to discuss improving orphan’s conditions DENVER, CO, 1/15/15: Izidor Ruckel, America’s most well-known Romanian adoptee, is traveling to Romania in March to meet with government officials and child welfare workers to discuss ways to improve living conditions for the country’s orphans, including those living in institutions and in the streets. Izidor lived the first 11 years of his life in an appalling Romanian institution, giving him personal motivation to reach out and help those who live as he once did. “I do not want to embarrass my home country or rehash the wrongs of the past,” Ruckel said. “Instead, I want to be a part of Romania moving into the future: a future where all children, no matter what their parents’ circumstances, are seen as precious and worthy of respect, education and opportunity.” In 1991, an American family adopted 11-year-old Ruckel from an orphanage in Sighetu Marmatiei, a remote city in northern Romania. He returned to Romania in 2001, accompanied by _ABC News 20/20_, and visited his old orphanage, reuniting with several old friends. Upon returning back to the United States, Ruckel felt compelled to advocate for institutionalized children everywhere. Ruckel completed his autobiography _Abandoned for Life_ in 2003, and has spent the last decade speaking around the country to raise awareness and funds for those left behind. In 2013, Ruckel teamed up with filmmaker Alex King, another Romanian adoptee, to produce a two-time award winning documentary about Romanian adoption called Given Our Chance. Ruckel’s return to Romania this spring signals a new hope in his heart: to see how he can personally help local communities and government officials motivate the public to help its lost children. He plans to travel around the country for several weeks, talking to anyone who will listen. On Mar. 21, Ruckel and Alex Kush, an former orphan adopted by a German family, will give a presentation in Brasov, which they hope will encourage Romanians to step up and help the orphans in their midst. They also hope to inspire the area’s struggling orphans to not give up. Like Ruckel, Kush has advocated for orphans across the globe, including speaking before the Romanian Parliament in 2013 where he advocated for the re-opening of international adoption. Romania has remained closed to international adoption since 2003. Ruckel created an online campaign to raise $2000 to cover some of the trips’ travel expenses, as well as to purchase a few gifts for his friends who were never adopted, “aged out” of the orphanage, and were transferred directly to an “old folks’ home.” “I asked two of my friends what I could bring them,” Ruckel said. “They both said they wanted a CD player and CDs so they can listen to music. With all they’ve been through, this was the biggest dream they could think of.” Ruckel also hopes to provide a dinner party, bringing together his former orphanage friends and some of the nannies who showed them kindness. To learn more about the campaign, and to consider donating, visit our fundraiser page _(link removed)_. “If God could rescue me – an orphan once considered not worthy enough to potty train, let alone educate – to become an athlete, an author, and a film producer, then what do you think it could be like for others who are given a chance in life?” ##### --- --- title: "ABC Radio National: Sydney, Australia" url: "https://izidorstory.com/romanias-abandoned-children/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Australian Broadcasting Corporation Radio National interviewed Izidor Ruckel on Jul. 6, 2014. View images and listen to the program." last_modified: "2014-07-07T00:52:23+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News, Recommended] tags: [Australia, Izidor, orphan, radio, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # ABC Radio National: Sydney, Australia _Australian Broadcasting Corporation Radio National_ interviewed Izidor Ruckel on Jul. 6, 2014. [View images and listen to the program.](http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/allinthemind/romania27s-abandoned-children/5502878) --- --- title: "World Magazine: From orphan to advocate" url: "https://izidorstory.com/from-orphan-to-advocate/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel works the night shift at a Denver Walmart. Adopted from Romania in 1991 at age 11, he also speaks around the United States about the plight of Romanian orphans, especially those with special needs … Read the full" last_modified: "2014-04-19T15:13:29+00:00" categories: [News, U.S. news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # World Magazine: From orphan to advocate Izidor Ruckel works the night shift at a Denver Walmart. Adopted from Romania in 1991 at age 11, he also speaks around the United States about the plight of Romanian orphans, especially those with special needs … [Read the full story here at _World Magazine_](https://world.wng.org/2014/04/from_orphan_to_advocate) --- --- title: "Radio New Zealand National: Wellington, New Zealand" url: "https://izidorstory.com/writer-izidor-ruckel/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Radio New Zealand interviewed Izidor Ruckel on Mar. 17, 2014. Listen to the interview on Radio New Zealand" last_modified: "2014-03-18T00:45:35+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [Izidor, New Zealand, orphan, radio, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Radio New Zealand National: Wellington, New Zealand _Radio New Zealand_ interviewed Izidor Ruckel on Mar. 17, 2014. [Listen to the interview on _Radio New Zealand_](http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/audio/2589251/writer-izidor-ruckel) --- --- title: "Público: Lisbon, Portugal" url: "https://izidorstory.com/o-rapaz-do-documentario/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "O rapaz do documentário Article in Portuguese newspaper Público about Izidor and Alex King making their documentary Given Our Chance about Romanian orphans on Mar. 9, 2014. Read full article in Público." last_modified: "2014-03-10T00:37:04+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [Izidor, orphan, Portugal, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Público: Lisbon, Portugal O rapaz do documentário Article in Portuguese newspaper _Público_ about Izidor and Alex King making their documentary _Given Our Chance_ about Romanian orphans on Mar. 9, 2014. [Read full article in _Público_](http://www.publico.pt/mundo/noticia/o-rapaz-do-documentario-1627260). --- --- title: "The San Diego Union-Tribune: Romanian orphan turns lens to his past" url: "https://izidorstory.com/romanian-orphan-turns-lens-to-his-past/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "For the first 11 years of his life, every person Izidor Ruckel loved, he lost. He contracted polio as an infant in Romania in the early 1980s, and his parents left him at a hospital and never went back …" last_modified: "2014-02-26T15:55:12+00:00" categories: [News, U.S. news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # The San Diego Union-Tribune: Romanian orphan turns lens to his past ![Article about Izidor in San Diego Union-Tribune](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Screen-Shot-2017-08-16-at-4.52.45-PM-1-300x270.jpg) For the first 11 years of his life, every person Izidor Ruckel loved, he lost. He contracted polio as an infant in Romania in the early 1980s, and his parents left him at a hospital and never went back … [Read the full story from _The San Diego Union-Tribune_](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/lifestyle/people/sdut-romanian-orphan-izidor-ruckel-documentary-2014feb26-htmlstory.html) --- --- title: "NPR Morning Edition: Orphans’ Lonely Beginnings Reveal How Parents Shape A Child’s Brain" url: "https://izidorstory.com/orphans-lonely-beginnings-reveal-how-parents-shape-a-childs-brain/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Parents do a lot more than make sure a child has food and shelter, researchers say. They play a critical role in brain development … Read more and listen to the story from NPR's Morning Edition" last_modified: "2014-02-24T15:46:05+00:00" categories: [News, U.S. news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # NPR Morning Edition: Orphans’ Lonely Beginnings Reveal How Parents Shape A Child’s Brain Parents do a lot more than make sure a child has food and shelter, researchers say. They play a critical role in brain development … [Read more and listen to the story from _NPR’s Morning Edition_](http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2014/02/20/280237833/orphans-lonely-beginnings-reveal-how-parents-shape-a-childs-brain) --- --- title: "Onet: Kraków, Poland" url: "https://izidorstory.com/dziecko-z-piekla/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Dziecko z piekła Article on Poland's Onet featuring Izidor's story. Original story removed from online access." last_modified: "2014-02-19T17:15:02+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [Izidor, orphan, Poland, romania, ruckel] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Onet: Kraków, Poland Dziecko z piekła Article on Poland’s _Onet_ featuring Izidor’s story. _Original story removed from online access._ --- --- title: "Radio România Actualităţi: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/izidor-ruckel-isi-povesteste-viata-pentru-a-inspira-alti-orfani/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Izidor Ruckel îşi povesteşte viaţa pentru a inspira alţi orfani Izidor's efforts on behalf of Romanian orphans are featured in this article and interview from Radio România Actualităţi. Read full story and listen to interview at Radio România Actualităţi" last_modified: "2014-02-04T16:45:42+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Radio România Actualităţi: Bucharest, Romania Izidor Ruckel îşi povesteşte viaţa pentru a inspira alţi orfani Izidor’s efforts on behalf of Romanian orphans are featured in this article and interview from _Radio România Actualităţi_. [Read full story and listen to interview at _Radio România Actualităţi_](http://www.romania-actualitati.ro/izidor_ruckel_isi_povesteste_viata_pentru_a_inspira_alti_orfani-57724) --- --- title: "Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/povestea-lui-izidor/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Washington Post: Povestea lui Izidor, orfanul care a scapat din \"Casa Irecuperabililor\". De ce vrea sa se intoarca in Romania Romania's Stirile Pro TV story about Izidor's efforts to speak out on behalf of Romanian orphans in the US. Read" last_modified: "2014-02-01T16:35:35+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Stirile ProTV: Bucharest, Romania [![Washington Post- Povestea lui Izidor, orfanul care a scapat din Casa Irecuperabililor. De ce vrea sa se intoarca in Romania](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Povesta-lui-Izidor.jpg)](http://stirileprotv.ro/stiri/stirileprotv-special/izidor-ruckel-orfanul-care-a-scapat-de-iadul-din-romania-in-washington-post-planul-prin-care-poate-salva-si-alti-copii.html) Washington Post: Povestea lui Izidor, orfanul care a scapat din “Casa Irecuperabililor”. De ce vrea sa se intoarca in Romania Romania’s _Stirile Pro TV_ story about Izidor’s efforts to speak out on behalf of Romanian orphans in the US. [Read the full story at _Stirile Pro TV_](http://stirileprotv.ro/stiri/stirileprotv-special/izidor-ruckel-orfanul-care-a-scapat-de-iadul-din-romania-in-washington-post-planul-prin-care-poate-salva-si-alti-copii.html) --- --- title: "teinteresa.es: Madrid, Spain" url: "https://izidorstory.com/psicosis-y-depresion-el-legado-de-170-000-ninos-de-los-orfanatos-de-la-era-ceascescu/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Psicosis y depresión, el legado de 170.000 niños de los orfanatos de la era Ceascescu Spanish news coverage of Izidor and the plight of Romanian orphans on Jan. 31, 2014. Read the full article on teinteresa.es" last_modified: "2014-01-31T17:23:42+00:00" categories: [Global news stories, News] tags: [Izidor, orphan, romania, ruckel, Spain] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # teinteresa.es: Madrid, Spain [![Psicosis y depresión, el legado de 170.000 niños de los orfanatos de la era Ceascescu](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Spanish-article.jpg)](http://www.teinteresa.es/mundo/Psicosis-depresion-legado-orfanatos-Ceascescu_0_1076292678.html#sr=bcboepofegpsmjgf.dpn&m=r&cp=(sfgfssbm)&ct=-tmc&ts=1405015708) Psicosis y depresión, el legado de 170.000 niños de los orfanatos de la era Ceascescu Spanish news coverage of Izidor and the plight of Romanian orphans on Jan. 31, 2014. [Read the full article on _teinteresa.es_](http://www.teinteresa.es/mundo/Psicosis-depresion-legado-orfanatos-Ceascescu_0_1076292678.html#sr=bcboepofegpsmjgf.dpn&m=r&cp=(sfgfssbm)&ct=-tmc&ts=1405015708) --- --- title: "Washington Post: A lost boy finds his calling" url: "https://izidorstory.com/a-lost-boy-finds-his-calling/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Orphan no more: Adoption freed Izidor Ruckel from the hell of his Romanian orphanage. But his physical and mental scars aren’t easily escapable. He picks up a camera — the tool that hastened his rescue — to try to spare" last_modified: "2014-01-30T15:25:52+00:00" categories: [News, Recommended, U.S. news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Washington Post: A lost boy finds his calling Orphan no more: Adoption freed Izidor Ruckel from the hell of his Romanian orphanage. But his physical and mental scars aren’t easily escapable. He picks up a camera — the tool that hastened his rescue — to try to spare others from suffering … [Read the full story and watch the video at _The Washington Post_ website.](http://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/style/2014/01/30/a-lost-boy-finds-his-calling/) --- --- title: "Romania-USA: Chicago, USA" url: "https://izidorstory.com/alex-king-and-izidor-ruckel-have-begun-filming-on-their-new-documentary-given-our-chance/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Alex si Izidor doi copii adoptati in anii '90 din orfelinatele din Romania, de catre 2 familii de americani, au inceput filmarile la un proiect de film documentar independent Alex King, the award winning filmmaker and director and editor of" last_modified: "2013-02-01T17:06:27+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Romania-USA: Chicago, USA [![Alex King and Izidor Ruckel have begun filming on their new documentary, "Given Our Chance"](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Izidor_and_Alex_filming.jpg)](http://rousa.blogspot.ro/2012/11/alex-king-and-izidor-ruckel-have-begun.html) Alex si Izidor doi copii adoptati in anii ’90 din orfelinatele din Romania, de catre 2 familii de americani, au inceput filmarile la un proiect de film documentar independent Alex King, the award winning filmmaker and director and editor of “Born To Be Our Children, Romanian Adoption Stories” has joined forces with Izidor Ruckel author of “Abandoned for Life” and public speaker … [Read the article at _Romania-USA_](http://rousa.blogspot.ro/2012/11/alex-king-and-izidor-ruckel-have-begun.html) --- --- title: "Actual MM.ro: Baia Mare, Romania" url: "https://izidorstory.com/video-povestea-socanta-a-doi-tineri-din-casa-irecuperabililor-din-sighetu-marmatiei-ei-au-fost-adoptati-de-familii-de-americani/" lang: "en-US" type: "post" description: "Povestea socanta a doi tineri din “Casa Irecuperabililor” din Sighetu Marmatiei. Ei au fost adoptati de familii de americani Article about Izidor and Alex King's new documentary Given Our Chance. Read the article at ActualMM.ro" last_modified: "2013-02-01T16:54:28+00:00" categories: [News, Romanian news stories] custom_fields: site-sidebar-layout: "default" site-content-layout: "default" theme-transparent-header-meta: "default" --- # Actual MM.ro: Baia Mare, Romania [![VIDEO – Povestea socanta a doi tineri din “Casa Irecuperabililor” din Sighetu Marmatiei. Ei au fost adoptati de familii de americani](https://izidorstory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Romania-video.jpg)](http://www.actualmm.ro/video-povestea-socanta-a-doi-tineri-din-casa-irecuperabililor-din-sighetu-marmatiei-ei-au-fost-adoptati-de-familii-de-americani/#) Povestea socanta a doi tineri din “Casa Irecuperabililor” din Sighetu Marmatiei. Ei au fost adoptati de familii de americani Article about Izidor and Alex King’s new documentary _Given Our Chance_. [Read the article at _ActualMM.ro_](http://www.actualmm.ro/video-povestea-socanta-a-doi-tineri-din-casa-irecuperabililor-din-sighetu-marmatiei-ei-au-fost-adoptati-de-familii-de-americani/#) ---