THE STORY

Paper Flowers is an award-winning feature film inspired by the HUFFPOST viral article “Thank You, Cancer” and inspiring life of a young Peace Corps volunteer who chose purpose, joy, compassion, and love in the face of terminal cancer.

Shalin Shah, an ambitious USC graduate, leaves behind his loving Indian American family and devoted girlfriend, Fiona, to pursue his dream of making a difference as a Peace Corps volunteer. However, his life takes a devastating turn when a check-up for a lingering cough reveals a shocking diagnosis: a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Forced to return home and undergo treatment, Shalin confronts the fundamental question: what is the true meaning of life when faced with limited time? Based on a true story, PAPER FLOWERS is a poignant and inspirational journey of love, loss, and hope. It serves as a roadmap to cherish the moments we have and to remember to stop and enjoy every sunset.

IMPACT CAMPAIGN

Through community screenings, educational outreach, and meaningful conversations, the Paper Flowers Impact Campaign aims to inspire healing, resilience, gratitude, and human connection while supporting patients, caregivers, families, and communities around the world.

With your support, we can bring this story to far more people through community screenings, conversations, and partnerships that help the film reach those who may need it most. We are building an impact campaign around Paper Flowers to connect the film with patients, caregivers, loved ones, students, healthcare providers, and communities navigating grief, illness, and healing. Your donation helps us turn a powerful viewing experience into something larger: dialogue, connection, and real support.

YOUR SUPPORT HELPS US

bring the film to communities that may not otherwise hear about it
support outreach and marketing to patients, caregivers, families, and organizations aligned with the film’s themes
offer pay-it-forward tickets so more people can attend screenings regardless of cost
organize community and campus screenings followed by meaningful conversations
create virtual screenings that can reach audiences across different cities and countries
develop accessible event materials, discussion guides, and resources for partners
support partnerships with healthcare, caregiving, grief, and wellness organizations
help cover the costs of impact screenings, moderation, and audience engagement
build a lasting campaign that extends the life of the film far beyond a single screening

Help Bring This Inspiring Story to Communities Everywhere