Andy was an OG independent filmmaker – so incredibly dedicated to making films and telling stories from under-represented parts of the world and sharing the voices of people so rarely heard. He cared about that deeply and gave it everything. That was his focus first and foremost- his passion was so pure. And he had so much respect and empathy for the people he filmed. I first met him in Iraq when a crew of us -Micah, James Longley and Phillip Robertson were staying at the inexpensive Dulaimi Hotel in Baghdad- refuge of many documentary filmmakers on small budgets- where he was working on his second film, The Blood of My Brother. I am so glad I got to see Andy at the Telluride Film Festival this past summer for James’ film premiere. Andy had driven there through from CA by motorcycle – a warm testament to his independent adventurous spirit. We also got to see Free Solo at Telluride and Andy had filmed some of it- some scenes that I loved and remember vividly for their strong verite feel. A few years ago we saw Andy’s last film, Madina’s Dream, at Stranger than Fiction in New York. That film is such a blend of bravery, artistry and empathy. And per usual, he was so humble about it, wanting to focus on the issue and the people in the film. I also took a RISC Training class with Andy in New York a while back – another testament of his focus on others by learning how to help save colleagues in the field. I only wish we all could have helped him more as he struggled with depression and his recent Parkinson’s diagnosis. These things are so hard to talk about personally and in ones creative field. There is nothing that can dull the tragedy of Andy taking his own life and the devastation of knowing now the huge amount of pain he was going through. I hope though it can motivate us as a community to encourage openness about mental health and struggles in our work. Andy, we will miss your sweet, kind, funny, unique, talented self and we celebrate your incredible work and dedication. You will continue to inspire us. Rest In Peace. Your friends, Marie-Helene Carleton and Micah Garen