Chronically Yours: Film Review
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
Chronically Yours / Directed by Jacob Godbey
Chronically Yours is a deeply personal documentary that follows Aubrey, a 27-year-old woman navigating life with Multiple Sclerosis while preparing for something that feels both exciting and intimidating: a first date. Through her experiences, director Jacob Godbey explores the daily realities of living with a chronic illness, from physical limitations and uncertainty to questions of identity, independence, and connection.
What makes the documentary so compelling is Aubrey herself. She possesses a remarkable combination of openness, humor, intelligence, and resilience. Whether discussing the daily realities of living with MS, speaking about the frustrations of losing energy, or sharing her concerns before a first date, she remains engaging and authentic throughout. Her honesty never feels performative. Instead, it creates an immediate emotional connection that allows the audience to experience both her challenges and her triumphs alongside her.
The film excels at illustrating the realities of chronic illness through simple, carefully observed moments. A shower that consumes most of Aubrey's energy. A cooling vest helping her cope with heat. The frustration of searching for words that once came easily. These details transform abstract medical terminology into lived experience, helping viewers understand the condition in a deeply human way.
At the same time, Chronically Yours refuses to define Aubrey solely through her diagnosis. One moment she is discussing the limitations imposed by MS, and the next she is speaking confidently in a professional setting, advocating for issues she cares about. The film paints a complete portrait of a woman whose identity extends far beyond her illness.
Some of the documentary's most moving moments come through the relationship between Aubrey and her parents. Their love, concern, and unwavering support are present in every interaction. The interviews with her mother, Carra, and her father, Brian, reveal not only the challenges of watching a loved one struggle, but also the immense pride they feel in her determination. When Brian speaks about the invisible nature of the disease and the importance of empathy, the emotion behind his words is impossible to miss.
The documentary also handles difficult subjects with admirable honesty. Aubrey speaks openly about past abusive relationships, the embarrassment she carried, and the lessons she learned. Rather than dwelling on hardship, the film treats these experiences as part of a larger journey toward self-understanding and growth.
The structure of the film is particularly effective, returning us to the anticipation of Aubrey's upcoming date. By the time she finally meets Cassie, the audience is fully invested. The scene unfolds with a natural charm that perfectly reflects the film's tone. There is nervousness, laughter, curiosity, and genuine connection. When Aubrey chooses to share her diagnosis, the moment feels meaningful not because of dramatic tension, but because we understand how much courage it takes to be vulnerable with someone new.
Jacob Godbey deserves significant credit for creating an environment where such openness feels possible. The film never pushes for emotion or manufactures drama. Instead, it trusts Aubrey's story, allowing moments of joy, heartbreak, uncertainty, and hope to emerge naturally. Combined with its gentle music, thoughtful visual storytelling, and intimate access to its subjects, the result is a documentary that feels both personal and universal.
Above all, Chronically Yours is a story about living fully in the face of uncertainty. It is about courage, self-acceptance, family, and the willingness to keep opening your heart, even when life becomes more complicated than expected.
A moving, insightful, and deeply human documentary that leaves a lasting impression not because of the challenges Aubrey faces, but because of the remarkable person she is.
Follow Jacob Godbey:
Website: https://www.godbeycreative.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godbeycreative/
