"Hemophilia shaped my life. Storytelling gave it purpose." | Patrick James Lynch's Filmmaker Journey

Hit-N-Record

When Patrick James Lynch's brother died from complications of hemophilia weeks before Patrick's college graduation, everything changed. What followed wasn't just grief, but a profound calling that would reshape his entire creative path.
In this deeply moving conversation, Patrick shares how he transformed from an aspiring actor into the founder of Believe Limited, a production company dedicated to storytelling for rare and chronic disease communities. His journey reveals the unexpected power of creative arts to reach people in ways traditional medicine cannot. After witnessing how a simple dramatic reading helped uncover stories that years of formal therapy couldn't access, Patrick found his mission.
The conversation weaves through Patrick's global advocacy work, from creating web series and documentaries to traveling to countries where children with hemophilia face dramatically different outcomes than those with access to treatment. Rather than succumbing to survivor's guilt, Patrick channels his privilege into amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Perhaps most compelling is Patrick's candid discussion of his own mental health journey. By openly addressing depression and trauma within rare disease communities, he's created space for crucial conversations about suicide prevention and psychological support. His evolution as a leader—from the young advocate wearing blazers to "look the part" to a seasoned CEO comfortable in his authentic identity—offers wisdom for any creative navigating purpose-driven work.
As Patrick works to complete "Poster Child," a decade-in-the-making documentary about HIV/AIDS advocate Ryan White, he reflects on the bittersweet nature of his calling. "My brother started all this as much as I did," he says, "but at this point, I don't do it for him. I do it for the people who are here now." This powerful reminder speaks to how our deepest wounds can become portals to purpose that extends far beyond our personal healing.

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Chapters

1. Patrick's Trauma and Creative Calling (00:00:00)

2. Discovering Power in Patient Storytelling (00:05:04)

3. Creating Believe Limited and Its Mission (00:19:47)

4. Mental Health Advocacy in Rare Disease (00:35:47)

5. Leadership Evolution and Identity Shifts (00:51:27)

6. The Ryan White Documentary and Legacy (01:06:19)