Every once in awhile, we’re involved in a project that leaves not a dry eye in the room, and the Zion Project is one of those. The licensed tracks by Marmoset artists Jonathan Haidle, Mark Laukkanen and Our Many Stars serve as the soundscape to the incredible story of Zion Harvey — the first child to ever receive a bilateral hand transplant.
The story is broken into two chapters, both paired with soothing, sparse piano tracks. The first introduces Zion, an 8-year-old boy who lost his hands and feet to a life threatening infection at age two, and takes us through his 10-hour, high-stakes procedure.
Chapter two fast-forwards to one year post-operation. Soft and emotive piano frames a happy, healthy Zion navigating life with hands. Zion faces the new challenges that come with such a huge change with a positive attitude and big heart. At the end of this long journey, we’re left with inspiring, minimalist piano, and a simple phrase from Zion, far wiser than his nine years should yield: “Never give up on what you’re doing, you’ll get there eventually.”
We can all learn something from Zion. Watch the full story below and enjoy.