Slipping Away
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Family
Slipping Away follows Fay, a military veteran caring for her mother, as Alzheimer’s slowly unravels their family’s foundation. While facing her own trauma, Fay leans on her brother Sam Jr., who tries to support them both while managing his own family’s needs.
Slipping Away
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Family
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $12,280 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
102 supporters | followers
Enter the amount you would like to pledge
Slipping Away follows Fay, a military veteran caring for her mother, as Alzheimer’s slowly unravels their family’s foundation. While facing her own trauma, Fay leans on her brother Sam Jr., who tries to support them both while managing his own family’s needs.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
This film is inspired by memories of my mother recounting her experiences with my great aunt, who lived with dementia. Now, I’m witnessing my mother-in-law begin to show early signs of cognitive decline—forgetting names, misplacing things, and moments of confusion. Yet, just as often, she’s sharp, spirited, and fully present. It’s that emotional tension—the uncertainty and shifting realities— that I explore in this story. With family members who have served in the military, I’ve also drawn on the lasting effects of service on family life, particularly the complex dynamics between parents and children. Through this film, I aim to give voice to the often unseen struggles faced by veterans, caregivers, and families—while offering a story grounded in love, resilience, and the enduring strength of connection.
FORMAT AND TONE
Slipping Away is a 10-12 minute narrative short film that captures the ache of memory loss and the unspoken weight of trauma. It offers a poignant exploration of a family navigating the complexities of Alzheimer’s and military PTSD. Through moments of tenderness, vulnerability, and strength, Slipping Away invites audiences to reflect on the fragility of the mind, the bonds of family, and the resilience of the human spirit.
THE CINEMATIC DNA OF SLIPPING AWAY
Slipping Away blends the emotional core of Still Alice—with its intimate look at Alzheimer’s....
with the trauma and healing journey of Antwone Fisher.....
and the grief and quiet resilience of Black women seen in Lila & Eve.
It’s a deeply personal story about memory, PTSD, and family, told through a lens we rarely see.
CHARACTERS
Faye - Portrayed by Sonya Leslie
As a teenager, the unexpected loss of Fay’s youngest brother left her feeling adrift as she, her siblings, and parents each coped in their own ways. Seeking purpose, she joined the Army and served for 20 years (including two deployments to Iraq). Now retired, she faces new challenges: caring for her ailing mother while also sifting through the emotional toll of feeling trapped in a role that has taken away her sense of self. Fay’s journey is shaped by duty, loss, and perseverance.
Henrietta - Portrayed by Elaine Dickson
Henrietta is a resilient, 75-year-old mother, now living with her daughter, Fay. Her life has been marked by deep loss, including the death of her husband and her youngest son.
These tragedies left lasting imprints on her and her two remaining children, creating emotional distance over the years between them. Unable to accept the grim prognosis of a cognitive degenerative disease, Henrietta is determined to find a cure, pouring her waning energy into a desperate search.
Sam, Jr. - Portrayed by Garland Scott .jpg)
am Jr. is a 46-year-old warehouse supervisor known for his strong work ethic and unwavering dedication to loved ones.
As the de facto patriarch since his father’s passing, he shoulders significant responsibilities: balancing the demands of a full-time job, caring for his own family, while also providing support for his aging mother, Henrietta, and his sister, Fay. Sam strives to be the glue holding everyone together, even when the weight of it all feels overwhelming.
Why This Film, and Why Now?
Because memory doesn’t wait….
Slipping Away shines a light on the emotional toll of Alzheimer’s, PTSD, and the unspoken trauma that lives in so many Black and military families. These are stories that rarely get centered — especially with nuance, dignity, and heart.
*Right now, millions of families are living this reality.
*Right now, veterans are facing battles long after the war is over.
*Right now, daughters are becoming caretakers while carrying pain no one sees.
We believe storytelling can start conversations, break silence, and open hearts.
The Facts That Fuel This Film
*Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s
*Over 1 in 4 veterans live with PTSD
*Trauma in Black families is often unseen, untreated, and unspoken
Your support helps us do that — not later. Now.
WHERE YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES/BUDGET
STRETCH GOALS:
Our goal is to raise $14,500, but if we’re lucky enough to go beyond that, every additional dollar will go straight into making Slipping Away even stronger. Here’s how we’ll put extra funds to work:
*Paying our actors higher wages – honoring the value of their time and talent
*Upgrading equipment – for even more cinematic visuals and cleaner sound
*Securing ideal locations – ones that truly support the emotional tone of the story
*Adding more authentic props and set design elements – to elevate realism and detail
*Covering festival submission fees – to get this film out into the world where it belongs
*Every stretch goal helps us tell this story more fully, more beautifully, and with greater impact. *Your continued support makes that possible!
Thank You!
Thank you for your support! Unable to give? Please spread the word about our film and follow us on social media. We can't do it without you!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slippingawayfilm/
Instagram: @slippingawayfilm
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Actors
Costs $1,150
To pay our talented cast for their time, skill, and emotional depth in bringing these characters to life.
Cameras, Lights, Sound Equipment
Costs $4,850
We desire to rent pro gear so we can capture high-quality visuals and sound that do justice to the story’s tone, mood, and performances.
Assistant Director
Costs $600
In order to keep the production running smoothly and on schedule—our AD makes sure every shot gets made and no detail gets missed.
Hair, MakeUp & Wardrobe
Costs $750
To help actors fully transform into character—looks that reflect story, mood, and time period with care and detail.
Meals
Costs $600
To keep our cast and crew fueled and focused—good food means good energy on long shoot days.
Vehicle Rental
Costs $450
The vehicle is a key part of the story—it’s more than a vehicle, it’s a character. We need it to bring the film’s world to life.
Insurance
Costs $800
To protect our cast, crew, and equipment—insurance ensures we can film safely and responsibly on set.
Contingency & Miscellaneous
Costs $400
To cover unexpected costs—film sets are unpredictable, and this helps us stay on track without compromising the vision.
Props & Set Items
Costs $200
To create a lived-in, authentic world—key props and set pieces bring emotional depth and realism to each scene.
Post Production & Editing
Costs $4,000
To shape the final film—editing, sound, and color bring the story to life and ensure a polished, powerful viewing experience.
Media Storage
Costs $300
To safely store and back up all footage—we need reliable drives to protect the film from shoot through final delivery.
Costumes & Wigs
Costs $400
To reflect each character’s identity and journey—costumes and wigs help bring authenticity and emotional truth to the story.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE WRITER...
I am Sonya Leslie and I'm making my mark as a writer, director, and producer after years of success in front of the camera and on stage. This short film marks my debut as a screenwriter and is my second project as a director. I've appeared in series such as NCIS, Snowfall, S.W.A.T., Grey’s Anatomy, and The Rookie. This film reflects an exciting transition from actress to author— drawing on decades of experience and a relentless commitment to thoughtful storytelling.
MEET THE PRODUCERS...
Nakia Burrise
Writer, Producer, Actress, Director Nakia Burrise has been performing and creating for over 25 years. She first gained prominence portraying Tanya Sloan, the Yellow Zeo and Turbo Ranger, in the Power Rangers series during the mid-1990s and has continued starring and guest starring in movies, commercials, and television series. In 2012, Nakia founded Sovereignty Entertainment Inc., a production company dedicated to creating family-
friendly television, web series, and films. Under this banner, she has produced the acclaimed multi-season comedy web series Class Dismissed. In 2025, her award winning inspirational film, Back to Bridgewood, was released on multiple streaming platforms.
Sydney Mikayla
Sydney Mikayla has captivated audiences with her compelling performances across television and film. From 2019 to 2022, Sydney brought depth to the character of Trina Robinson on ABC's General Hospital, earning two Emmy nominations. Transitioning into production, Sydney has taken on roles
behind the camera, including serving as a producer for the short film Find Your Heart. In Slipping Away, she has been instrumental in
guiding the film's creative direction.
Maeve Forti
Maeve Forti is an actor, writer, and producer based in New York City. Growing up in Boston, Massachusetts, she had a lifelong dream of becoming an actor. Maeve received her B.A. from Yale University in Sociology & Journalism and has since moved to New York City to pursue her acting career. She made her television debut in 2022 on NBC’s Law & Order and recently appeared on Long Bright River alongside Amanda Seyfried. She spends her free time writing and walking her Golden Retriever Daisy.
MEET THE ACTORS...
Sonya Leslie is an accomplished actress whose dynamic career spans Broadway, television, and film. She appeared in the original Broadway production of The Lion King and has graced the screen in films including Back to Bridgewood and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. On television, Sonya has held recurring roles on The Residence, Snowfall, Major Crimes, and Hunters.
Garland Scott is a versatile actor of stage, television and film. He's known for Nyad (2023), portraying the titular character in the Champs-Élysées Film Festival Winning feature The Ghost Who Walks (2019) and Best Actor in the Seriesfest Award-Winning Puncher's Chance (2023). Garland is currently recurring on Law & Order: Organized Crime.
Elaine Dickson is an actor, comedian, and creative writer who thrives on entertaining others. With a background as a mistress of ceremony, stand-up comedian, and performer in various plays, she brings joy through her artistry.
MEET THE COMPOSER...
Stephen "Bud'da" Anderson is a multi-platinum, Emmy Award-winning music producer, songwriter, and composer with over two decades of experience in the music industry. Renowned for his innovative sound and versatility, Bud'da has collaborated with iconic artists and contributed to various television and film projects. He has produced tracks for prominent artists, including Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Xzibit, and Aaliyah and scored music for series such as Raven's Home, The Proud Family and Mecha Builders.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
This film is inspired by memories of my mother recounting her experiences with my great aunt, who lived with dementia. Now, I’m witnessing my mother-in-law begin to show early signs of cognitive decline—forgetting names, misplacing things, and moments of confusion. Yet, just as often, she’s sharp, spirited, and fully present. It’s that emotional tension—the uncertainty and shifting realities— that I explore in this story. With family members who have served in the military, I’ve also drawn on the lasting effects of service on family life, particularly the complex dynamics between parents and children. Through this film, I aim to give voice to the often unseen struggles faced by veterans, caregivers, and families—while offering a story grounded in love, resilience, and the enduring strength of connection.
FORMAT AND TONE
Slipping Away is a 10-12 minute narrative short film that captures the ache of memory loss and the unspoken weight of trauma. It offers a poignant exploration of a family navigating the complexities of Alzheimer’s and military PTSD. Through moments of tenderness, vulnerability, and strength, Slipping Away invites audiences to reflect on the fragility of the mind, the bonds of family, and the resilience of the human spirit.
THE CINEMATIC DNA OF SLIPPING AWAY
Slipping Away blends the emotional core of Still Alice—with its intimate look at Alzheimer’s....
with the trauma and healing journey of Antwone Fisher.....
and the grief and quiet resilience of Black women seen in Lila & Eve.
It’s a deeply personal story about memory, PTSD, and family, told through a lens we rarely see.
CHARACTERS
Faye - Portrayed by Sonya Leslie
As a teenager, the unexpected loss of Fay’s youngest brother left her feeling adrift as she, her siblings, and parents each coped in their own ways. Seeking purpose, she joined the Army and served for 20 years (including two deployments to Iraq). Now retired, she faces new challenges: caring for her ailing mother while also sifting through the emotional toll of feeling trapped in a role that has taken away her sense of self. Fay’s journey is shaped by duty, loss, and perseverance.
Henrietta - Portrayed by Elaine Dickson
Henrietta is a resilient, 75-year-old mother, now living with her daughter, Fay. Her life has been marked by deep loss, including the death of her husband and her youngest son.
These tragedies left lasting imprints on her and her two remaining children, creating emotional distance over the years between them. Unable to accept the grim prognosis of a cognitive degenerative disease, Henrietta is determined to find a cure, pouring her waning energy into a desperate search.
Sam, Jr. - Portrayed by Garland Scott am Jr. is a 46-year-old warehouse supervisor known for his strong work ethic and unwavering dedication to loved ones.
As the de facto patriarch since his father’s passing, he shoulders significant responsibilities: balancing the demands of a full-time job, caring for his own family, while also providing support for his aging mother, Henrietta, and his sister, Fay. Sam strives to be the glue holding everyone together, even when the weight of it all feels overwhelming.
Why This Film, and Why Now?
Because memory doesn’t wait….
Slipping Away shines a light on the emotional toll of Alzheimer’s, PTSD, and the unspoken trauma that lives in so many Black and military families. These are stories that rarely get centered — especially with nuance, dignity, and heart.
*Right now, millions of families are living this reality.
*Right now, veterans are facing battles long after the war is over.
*Right now, daughters are becoming caretakers while carrying pain no one sees.
We believe storytelling can start conversations, break silence, and open hearts.
The Facts That Fuel This Film
*Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s
*Over 1 in 4 veterans live with PTSD
*Trauma in Black families is often unseen, untreated, and unspoken
Your support helps us do that — not later. Now.
WHERE YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES/BUDGET
STRETCH GOALS:
Our goal is to raise $14,500, but if we’re lucky enough to go beyond that, every additional dollar will go straight into making Slipping Away even stronger. Here’s how we’ll put extra funds to work:
*Paying our actors higher wages – honoring the value of their time and talent
*Upgrading equipment – for even more cinematic visuals and cleaner sound
*Securing ideal locations – ones that truly support the emotional tone of the story
*Adding more authentic props and set design elements – to elevate realism and detail
*Covering festival submission fees – to get this film out into the world where it belongs
*Every stretch goal helps us tell this story more fully, more beautifully, and with greater impact. *Your continued support makes that possible!
Thank You!
Thank you for your support! Unable to give? Please spread the word about our film and follow us on social media. We can't do it without you!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slippingawayfilm/
Instagram: @slippingawayfilm
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Actors
Costs $1,150
To pay our talented cast for their time, skill, and emotional depth in bringing these characters to life.
Cameras, Lights, Sound Equipment
Costs $4,850
We desire to rent pro gear so we can capture high-quality visuals and sound that do justice to the story’s tone, mood, and performances.
Assistant Director
Costs $600
In order to keep the production running smoothly and on schedule—our AD makes sure every shot gets made and no detail gets missed.
Hair, MakeUp & Wardrobe
Costs $750
To help actors fully transform into character—looks that reflect story, mood, and time period with care and detail.
Meals
Costs $600
To keep our cast and crew fueled and focused—good food means good energy on long shoot days.
Vehicle Rental
Costs $450
The vehicle is a key part of the story—it’s more than a vehicle, it’s a character. We need it to bring the film’s world to life.
Insurance
Costs $800
To protect our cast, crew, and equipment—insurance ensures we can film safely and responsibly on set.
Contingency & Miscellaneous
Costs $400
To cover unexpected costs—film sets are unpredictable, and this helps us stay on track without compromising the vision.
Props & Set Items
Costs $200
To create a lived-in, authentic world—key props and set pieces bring emotional depth and realism to each scene.
Post Production & Editing
Costs $4,000
To shape the final film—editing, sound, and color bring the story to life and ensure a polished, powerful viewing experience.
Media Storage
Costs $300
To safely store and back up all footage—we need reliable drives to protect the film from shoot through final delivery.
Costumes & Wigs
Costs $400
To reflect each character’s identity and journey—costumes and wigs help bring authenticity and emotional truth to the story.
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
MEET THE WRITER...
I am Sonya Leslie and I'm making my mark as a writer, director, and producer after years of success in front of the camera and on stage. This short film marks my debut as a screenwriter and is my second project as a director. I've appeared in series such as NCIS, Snowfall, S.W.A.T., Grey’s Anatomy, and The Rookie. This film reflects an exciting transition from actress to author— drawing on decades of experience and a relentless commitment to thoughtful storytelling.
MEET THE PRODUCERS...
Nakia Burrise
Writer, Producer, Actress, Director Nakia Burrise has been performing and creating for over 25 years. She first gained prominence portraying Tanya Sloan, the Yellow Zeo and Turbo Ranger, in the Power Rangers series during the mid-1990s and has continued starring and guest starring in movies, commercials, and television series. In 2012, Nakia founded Sovereignty Entertainment Inc., a production company dedicated to creating family-
friendly television, web series, and films. Under this banner, she has produced the acclaimed multi-season comedy web series Class Dismissed. In 2025, her award winning inspirational film, Back to Bridgewood, was released on multiple streaming platforms.
Sydney Mikayla
Sydney Mikayla has captivated audiences with her compelling performances across television and film. From 2019 to 2022, Sydney brought depth to the character of Trina Robinson on ABC's General Hospital, earning two Emmy nominations. Transitioning into production, Sydney has taken on roles
behind the camera, including serving as a producer for the short film Find Your Heart. In Slipping Away, she has been instrumental in
guiding the film's creative direction.
Maeve Forti
Maeve Forti is an actor, writer, and producer based in New York City. Growing up in Boston, Massachusetts, she had a lifelong dream of becoming an actor. Maeve received her B.A. from Yale University in Sociology & Journalism and has since moved to New York City to pursue her acting career. She made her television debut in 2022 on NBC’s Law & Order and recently appeared on Long Bright River alongside Amanda Seyfried. She spends her free time writing and walking her Golden Retriever Daisy.
MEET THE ACTORS...
Sonya Leslie is an accomplished actress whose dynamic career spans Broadway, television, and film. She appeared in the original Broadway production of The Lion King and has graced the screen in films including Back to Bridgewood and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. On television, Sonya has held recurring roles on The Residence, Snowfall, Major Crimes, and Hunters.
Garland Scott is a versatile actor of stage, television and film. He's known for Nyad (2023), portraying the titular character in the Champs-Élysées Film Festival Winning feature The Ghost Who Walks (2019) and Best Actor in the Seriesfest Award-Winning Puncher's Chance (2023). Garland is currently recurring on Law & Order: Organized Crime.
Elaine Dickson is an actor, comedian, and creative writer who thrives on entertaining others. With a background as a mistress of ceremony, stand-up comedian, and performer in various plays, she brings joy through her artistry.
MEET THE COMPOSER...
Stephen "Bud'da" Anderson is a multi-platinum, Emmy Award-winning music producer, songwriter, and composer with over two decades of experience in the music industry. Renowned for his innovative sound and versatility, Bud'da has collaborated with iconic artists and contributed to various television and film projects. He has produced tracks for prominent artists, including Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Xzibit, and Aaliyah and scored music for series such as Raven's Home, The Proud Family and Mecha Builders.