As someone who has always watched a lot of television, I know how rare it is to come across a show that really tugs at your heart. Shows like “One Tree Hill,” “Gilmore Girls” and “Parenthood” have always stood out to me as being more than just an hour of entertainment. In between reality shows about housewives and finding the love of your life, it can be hard to find something that goes deeper than just the surface. Every once in a blue moon, I’ll find something that stops me in my tracks and reminds me that television can be used for a bigger purpose; something that can help all of us.
The latest show I’ve gotten into is ABC Family’s “Chasing Life.” I was drawn to it, because it was so original from anything I’d seen before, not just on TV, but period.
The lead character, April, is a 20-something journalist in Boston, who ends up being diagnosed with cancer. Sure, the cancer line has been done before in films like “A Walk To Remember” or more recently, “The Fault In Our Stars.” But, this isn’t necessarily a story of loss. It shows us what we can gain in the midst of trial and how to fight back when plans don’t go our way or dreams don’t turn out the way you’ve always envisioned. It’s something that many 20-somethings can relate to, whether or not they’ve been affected by cancer. Sometimes, though, that path can lead you to something better than before.
“She has taught me never to give up on your dreams and keep fighting no matter what,” said Italia Ricci, 28, the show’s lead actress.
As a journalism major, I was drawn to April’s ambition and passion. But, like so many others, I’ve also been affected by cancer. My grandmas on both my mom and dad’s side of the family died from the disease. I saw how hard it was for them and how cancer not only affects the person who has cancer but the entire family in a big way. I can’t imagine what it’s like to hear that you have cancer in your 20s, just as your life is getting started and you’re finally making your own decisions or pursuing a career.
“It’s a real story with real people,” said Ricci. “April could be the person across the street. ‘Chasing Life’ is a reality that exists for so many reasons.”
April starts learning to live her life day by day, and in a lot of ways, many 20-somethings, whether having been affected by cancer or not, can relate to that.
Ricci adds that being part of the show has helped her define what matters most to her in life, and that if something isn’t on that list, then it isn’t worth her energy. I think that’s a great mentality for all of us. Why waste time on something, if it isn’t what you love?
While Ricci has been able to share April’s story and connect with those who have had cancer, and has given her a chance to get involved with organizations that are trying to fight the disease and connect on a more personal level with those who have been affected. Ricci says it’s one of the things she’s most thankful for.
“I’ve volunteered in the past, but never quite so actively,” said Ricci, “I always thought about working with charities and foundations, but never had the push to do it. ‘Chasing Life’ definitely pushed me and I’m so glad.”
“Chasing Life” airs on Monday nights on ABC Family at 9/8c.
