Jaret Martino

I’ve been an artist since childhood. I’m an actor, filmmaker, and teacher. My feature film “Donna Stronger Than Pretty,” is about my mother's journey escaping domestic violence. We partnered with The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and have succeeded in changing policy supporting shelters. This project was healing for me and my family. It has helped so many find their strength as they recognize themselves in my Mom. Going from victim to survivor and defying stereotypes is possible. Donna lights the way so bravely. I received a National Press Club Award in 2021 - Recognizing (Y)Our Resilience Honorable Mention

During the pandemic, I became my Mother's caretaker. In September 2020 she died of pancreatic cancer. My current project “Holding onto Hope” is a Cancer Awareness Feature Documentary about finding a cure. I've interviewed patients, survivors, caretakers, and medical professionals. My film team visited the new multidisciplinary clinic at Cedars Sinai in Beverly Hills and talked with Dr. Arsen Osipov who has become our partner. Our most recent non-profit partner is the Lustgarten Foundation. The intention of this film and the partnerships are to connect patients to the highest level of care, research, and early detection efforts.