“Summer of John”
We’re launching the “Summer of John” Film Fundraising Campaign to celebrate the life of beloved local, Maryland runner John Godinet, with proceeds going to support the making of Tail Twister, a documentary film for public television about John’s final years by Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Robert Rooy.
John Godinet, originally from American Samoa, was a fixture in the Frederick, Maryland running community and the Myersville Lions Club for more than thirty years. He was a veteran of countless marathons and 100-mile races, a mentor of new runners of all ages, and “Tail Twister” – official comedian and purveyor of fun — at the Lions Club. He was famous for welcoming “virgins” to running events, adorning himself with flamboyant racing attire, laughing at his own pranks, and giving anyone who needed it limitless time and care.
ALS took John away on May 7, 2021, five years after his diagnosis. But he wasn’t alone. John’s life was a lesson in how to create and participate in a diverse and loving community. A “posse” of fiercely loyal friends and family members stayed close to him till the end – not out of sympathy, but grateful for the light and the laughter John shared with them.
Tail Twister profiles John, the community that supported him, the friends who embraced him, and his husband, Peter, who cared for him 24/7 when Covid slammed the door on all other caregiving help. John attracted people who craved his joy and energy; in a time of global unrest, we all need this deeply moving story of kindness and joy. Tail Twister asks your support to complete the film and share John’s story with all Americans.
Throughout the summer, we will be conducting a fundraising campaign to help make Tail Twister a reality. PBS’s Pacific Islanders in Communication Media Fund has promised the film significant support – but only if the grant is matched by other contributions. Every dollar raised will be matched by the public television funder. A successful campaign raising $50,000 will put Tail Twister “over the hump” on its road to completion.
To support, you can make a direct Donation, join the Summer of John Virtual Run, and/or you can join John’s friends and family at a Virtual Fundraising Event on Wednesday, June 1 at 8:00pm. More events will follow throughout the summer, culminating with an in-person fundraising event on September 18th, so join our mailing list below for updates!