The Miracle Of The Cards Parent Guide

Do you believe in miracles? With skepticism, Josh (Kirk Cameron), a hard-nosed reporter, sets out to investigate the fact or fable of Craig Shergold (Thomas Sangster), an eight-year-old English cancer patient who claims a miraculous cure. Based on a true story, Cloud Ten Pictures uses dramatized interviews to piece together the curious and thought provoking Miracle Of The Cards.

Knowing that her son has something more serious than just an earache, Marion (Catherine Oxenberg) struggles to find a doctor who will do a thorough examination. When the correct diagnosis is finally given the forecast is grim. A rare type of tumor is growing in the center of Craig’s brain, and he will die if not treated immediately. In his present weakened state, the boy needs some sort of strengthening inspiration to proceed with the necessary grueling medical treatments. Marion is encouraged by the positive impact the arrival of numerous cards from friends and family has on the child’s spirits. The mother considers each to be a prayer for her child’s well being. After a suggestion that Craig could break the Guinness Book of Records for the most “get well” cards received, the Shergold’s coordinate this effort with a fund-raiser for the care giving hospital. With the assistance of the local media, mail begins to pour in from all over the world.

Firm in her faith that Craig can be cured and unafraid to heed premonitions, Marion goes on to lead her family in the battle of a lifetime. A series of incredible events ensue leaving Josh and the audience to decide if God and the kindness of strangers who responded to a dying boy’s plea have indeed worked a miracle.

While the script gets a little tangled arguing the reality of such mysteries, a more subtle but undeniable miracle emerges. To date, over 350 million cards** have been sent to Craig Shergold, each representing the goodwill and concern that exists in the hearts of mankind throughout the world. Without promoting any specific religion, The Miracle Of The Cards warmly illustrates that universal hope.

Note: Craig’s request has unfortunately turned into an urban legend spawned by several Internet chain letters. Although the Shergolds are grateful for the good intentions, the family (and the post office) would like the cards to stop. Now in his twenties, Craig remains in good health yet still receives about five bags of mail a day! To learn more about this dilemma visit http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/weekly/aa102997.htm.)

About author

Rod Gustafson

Rod Gustafson has worked in various media industries since 1977. He founded Parent Previews in 1993, and today continues to write and broadcast the reviews in newspapers, on radio and (of course) on the Internet. His efforts also include writing and researching media in all its forms and observing how it effects society and culture. He and his wife Donna have four children.