Clouds

Based on the book Fly a Little Higher: How God Answered a Mom’s Small Prayer in a Big Way, written by Laura Sobiech, Clouds captures the inspiring story of Zach Sobiech. Zach was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2009 when he was 14 years old and just a few years later he was told his cancer was terminal. Zach learned to play the guitar at a young age and coped with the fear of death by writing a number of songs to help him say goodbye to his friends and family. 

This movie on Disney+ was directed by Justin Baldoni. He first met Sobiech eight years ago when he was filming a documentary series called “My Last Days” and helped bring Zach’s story to life by portraying the devastating reality of cancer with a sense of humor, peace and beauty. 

All the actors in the movie were all able to meet Zach’s family in real life, giving the film another layer of deep connection. In the end credits of the movie, we are shown real footage of the actors meeting the inspirations for their characters. Zach and his best friend Sammy wrote multiple songs and recorded an album together before Zach passed away. Their album “Fix Me Up,” including songs titled “Fix Me Up,” “Blueberries,” “Sandcastles” and “Clouds” were all featured throughout the film and can be found on Spotify and Apple Music. 

One of the most touching stories is now available to be shared with the world. The movie has helped bring awareness to the rare cancer that took Zach’s life and encourages people to donate to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Fund. Zach’s fund has already raised over $2 million and is working hard to find a cure. 

Clouds is a breath-taking story that encompasses many inspiring messages we learn from Zach. I hope everyone will watch this movie because it tells the important message to make the most of your time because life is precious and there is no way to tell how short it might be. 

“You don’t have to find out you are dying to start living.” -Zach Sobiech