Every Life Has Its Purpose – A Film, A Legacy, A Community Being Heard
On Wednesday 28 January 2026, Cerebral Palsy Midlands was proud to host the world premiere of Every Life Has Its Purpose, an original musical film created by our much-loved Being Heard Music Group. As Musical Director Richard Ganner shared with the audience on the day, what we witnessed on screen was:
“the culmination of around two years of hard work” by the group and the continuation of a creative journey that began much earlier.
From Stage to Screen: The Journey of Every Life Has Its Purpose
The roots of this film stretch back to 2017, when the Being Heard Music Group was invited to create a musical work to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Cerebral Palsy Midlands.
As Richard explained, the original production consisted of eight songs with narration, telling the story of Dr Earl Carlson, the founding of Carlson House School in Victoria Road, Harborne, and its evolution into the organisation we know today as Cerebral Palsy Midlands (CPM). The piece was first performed following the AGM in November 2017 and was warmly received by everyone who attended.
Fast forward to September 2023, when Being Heard premiered their first musical film, Tea with Two Sugars. With that success behind them, the group asked an important question: Where do we go next?
The answer was clear. To return to Every Life Has Its Purpose and reimagine it for a big red carpet premiere.
A Complete Creative Makeover
What followed was a bold and ambitious transformation. The original music and lyrics were reworked, the setting updated to 2023, new material and characters were introduced, and the piece was given a complete creative overhaul, while keeping its emotional heart firmly rooted in the themes of CPM's past, present, and future.
Crucially, this film is a true collaboration.
As Richard shared:
“The themes, lyrics, dialogue and music that you will soon see on screen are the result of many hours of brainstorming and discussion — and I’m sure you will agree, there is much love thrown in for good measure.”
Richard continued..
“It was very exciting and most certainly an honour to witness the creativity and enthusiasm from the group each week. For me personally, working with this amazing group of talented people continues to be a huge privilege.”
Richard’s role, alongside Craig Keogh, was to help guide the many creative threads into a cohesive whole — Craig bringing his exceptional skills in videography, editing and direction, and Richard supporting the musical vision.
Why Every Life Has Its Purpose?
The title of the film comes directly from the life and legacy of Dr Earl Carlson himself. The final chapter of his autobiographical book is entitled Every Life Has Its Purpose, a message that resonated deeply with the group.
In Richard’s words, the closing lines of the book say:
“…what I have accomplished is really due to the help and guidance, throughout my life, of a host of teachers and friends. They kept me struggling against my difficulties and encouraged my belief that, by making the most of my opportunities, I could help others.”
This sentiment lies at the very heart of the film and of Being Heard Music Group.
A Premiere to Remember
The premiere at Touchbase Pears, Selly Oak was an emotional and celebratory afternoon, bringing together cast members, families, partners, supporters and staff to honour the achievements of the group.
The feedback from those who attended speaks volumes.
Lisa Ali, Northfield Neighbourhood Network Scheme, shared:
“This heart-warming film was created by young adults and people with disabilities from Cerebral Palsy Midlands, who have spent years bringing this project to life. It was incredibly moving to watch their stories, creativity and history shared so powerfully on screen.”
Above Kerrie receiving her Award for being a cast member.
Dan Challis, Disability Matters With Dan Blog, said:
“It was brilliant and very moving. Please watch it"
Above: Joe, Gary and Billy - Three Earl Carlson cast members pictured together.
Jo-Anne Shellum, Together Minds CIC, reflected:
“An incredible film celebrating their original founder Dr Earl Carlson… I felt very honoured to attend the premiere.”
For families, the pride was palpable. Marie Pearce, a family member, said:
“Absolutely fabulous film… I was very impressed with the cast. They worked very hard — well done to you all.”
From within CPM, Janet Kirkham, CPM staff member, described the film as:
“A wonderful legacy and archive.”
Cast member Grace Kempson captured the emotion of the day perfectly:
“Such a special story, told in our amazing and individual way.”
And CPM Trustee Michael Ganner summed up the impact powerfully:
“Every person who had the privilege of attending the premiere was moved, encouraged and inspired… I’m so proud to be a small part of the CPM family.”
Every Life Has Its Purpose - Photo Gallery
Watch the Film
Every Life Has Its Purpose is more than a film. It is a celebration of creativity, inclusion, friendship and belief, and a powerful reminder that every voice matters.
With Thanks
From the Being Heard Music Group, heartfelt thanks go to everyone who supported this project, including Musical Director Richard Ganner and Co-Director Craig Keogh. As well as every single cast member of Every Life Has Its purpose. Thanks to the management and staff at Cerebral Palsy Midlands for their continued support.
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