I thought there aren't a lot of stray or feral cats and dogs around streets in the US. Until I met a neighbor who has neutered hundreds in New York City alone over the years. Still, the US problem is dwarfed by that in China, where there are over a million stray animals in each of its major metropolitan areas. You don't need to live in China for too long to be involved one way or another about animal issues. For me it was a shocking video 6 years ago about Grandma Ding, a 80-year-old lone rescuer in Beijing, that jolted me to do something. She had over 100 cats at her house, tending to the sick and handicapped all by herself, with occasional help from the outside. And I picked up a camera and decided to do something I could to help millions upon millions of lives in China that most of my compatriots still consider, well, "nothing but animals."

Now I need all your help, in however many dollars or dimes or digital pass-alongs, to finish this special project. And only with your help this film can be brought up a notch by inviting some professional hands in graphics and audio cleaning, among other things. Some money will go into distribution, for instance but not limited to submissions to film festivals around the world, hopefully through which TV networks will become interested.

I certainly want to make sure as many people, especially back in China, get to see this film. Only when people back there are more responsible pet owners and more passionate about animals, will China be one day rid of all the animal problems, and rid of the passionate shelter operators who have stretched their own financial well being and health.

This won't be a short journey. I am certain this film can help enlighten a number of potential passionate souls who will join the ranks of problem solver, instead of becoming a problem creator. And I need your help in finishing the film. And thank you to become part of this journey.

Finish Filming

A majority of the work has been done, over a span of five years. But a final trip of shooting is critical to finish up. Estimated cost: $8,000 (preferably 2-person team)

Final Editing

A draft cut has been done, with English subtitles. But additional footage will probably change the current story board but strengthen the story. Estimated cost: $8,000 (+$2,000 for music)

Festivals & Outreach

Submission costs to film festivals around the world, preferably 10. Other outreach campaigns such as social networks, flyers, etc. Estimated cost: $6,000

Site & Updates

Maintain a lively flow of information about Chinese pet issues and news about main characters on site, www.heroesforlife.net. Follow up periodically on a select few characters with short video updates. Estimated cost $6,000