Director Joel Fendelman follows his award-winning short documentary about the 2004 March for Women’s Lives, BAND OF SISTERS, with ELEVEN CANDLES, an intimate and insightful portrait of 10-year-old Natalie’s battle with leukemia. A year after diagnosis, Natalie faces ongoing doctor appointments and a myriad of health concerns, including necrosis of her hip. She meets each challenge with an amazing blend of inquisitiveness and hope.

As Natalie’s 11th birthday approaches, ELEVEN CANDLES follows her from the hospital to the shopping mall. Through engaging interviews, Natalie reveals her vigor for life, how other kids have responded to her illness and why she doesn’t want anyone to feel sorry for her. The short documentary offers a rare glimpse of a young cancer patient’s life.