SHALIN'S STORY
Paper Flowers is inspired by the true story of Shalin Shah—a young man whose life, though shortened by a rare and aggressive cancer, became a powerful testament to love, gratitude, and purpose. After graduating from college, Shalin chose a path of service, leaving behind his Indian American family and his Taiwanese American girlfriend to volunteer with the Peace Corps in Peru, driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference.
At the very moment his life seemed to be opening up, he was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. What followed was not defined by fear, but by transformation. Returning home, Shalin’s journey brought healing across generations, deepened relationships, and bridged cultural divides. In the face of mortality, he discovered that life’s true value lies not in its length, but in the richness of each moment—an outlook he later shared through his viral essay, “Thank You, Cancer,” inspiring millions around the world.
Paper Flowers, the award-winning feature film inspired by his life, carries that message forward—inviting audiences not only to witness his story, but to reflect on their own. It creates space to process grief, heal, reconnect, and ultimately embrace a life fully lived.
Helping individuals process grief, embrace a life well lived
Finding joy, peace, and purpose—especially in times of crisis—is never easy. Paper Flowers invites audiences to stay connected to what matters most, embracing gratitude and presence even in the face of grief, cultural divides, and life’s greatest challenges.
Across the country, community partners are using the film to open meaningful conversations around grief, caregiving, purpose-driven living, end-of-life awareness, and the courage to live fully.
Our Upcoming National Release
• Red-carpet screenings to engage press, partners, and supporters
• Virtual and in-person screenings with healthcare and community partners
• University and medical screenings with facilitated discussions
• Q&As with the producer, director, cast, and Frances Chen
• Outreach with cancer, immigrant, and service-based organizations
• Nationwide theatrical release and distribution on Amazon and Angel Studios
• National PBS broadcast reaching millions
Paper Flowers, following a successful festival run, is currently available for impact screenings ahead of its nationwide theatrical release on August 21, 2026. These in-person and virtual screenings bring together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders to spark meaningful conversations around grief, healing, and living fully.
Following its theatrical run, the film will expand its reach through SVOD on Angel Studios, TVOD on Amazon, and a national PBS broadcast in February 2027 during Cancer Awareness Month—extending its impact nationwide as we partner with aligned organizations to build awareness, deepen engagement, and inspire a movement around healing, connection, and purposeful living.