My Eyes (2024) Movie Script
1
How about
that Korean barbecue place
off Swanston Street?
Your favourite.
You mean, your favourite.
Sure, we can go wild
on Wagyu beef.
Only because
you know I love my meat.
Ah, OK.
Look, I gotta go.
We're at Mum's, OK?
OK. Love you, peanut.
-Love you, Dad.
-Say hi to Wai-Poh.
Bye!
OK, so remember to set
the alarm on your watch
for table tennis. Yeah?
You know Wai-Poh
can be a bit forgetful,
and then I'll finish work early,
and I'll help you
with your maths.
But can we go to the park first?
Please?
OK.
Let's go.
I really need to win
my money back.
Like I am going
to let you?
Game four, take two.
Is that your..
Wai-Poh, time to go.
Ping-pong, I know,
I haven't forgotten.
You're corrupting
your granddaughter.
Does her mother knows that she's
learning mahjong from us?
Yes, she's learning
from the experts.
Issy, you can always hang out
with us all the time.
-Sik wu.
-Pong!
Ai-yo!
How could that happen?
Well, ladies, you snooze,
you lose.
I tried to warn you.
Pay up.
So, which side
is clearer and more distinct?
The circles on the red
or the circles on the green?
Red. No, no. Green.
Green? And how about now?
-About the same.
-Same. Good. You're doing well.
And now, is it better one
or better two?
One.
Yeah, that's good, Luke.
Excellent.
You can have a go now.
Ow!
Are you alright, Issy?
Yeah. I'm fine.
Issy, let me look.
Are you OK?
Wai-Poh, stop!
You're embarrassing me.
Don't be silly. Let me see.
It's fine! Let me play.
I'm calling your mother.
Oh, look at your
beautiful family.
Oh, thank you.
That was my daughter's
birthday party in March.
And this one?
Oh, that was a Para-Judo
tournament.
I was a volunteer.
Haven't done any of that
in ages.
Not since I started a family.
Sorry. Just hold on two secs.
It's my mum.
I've got to grab it.
I'll get our dispenser
to help you with some frames.
-Thank you.
-Yep, great. Thanks.
Hey, Mum.
Oh, what?
Issy, please, just...
Mum, I'm fine.
I'm sure you are.
Come on. Just look here.
I know it's bright, darling.
Nearly done.
OK. Just try again, OK.
Looking here again.
Can you just take Issy out
just for a few minutes?
I've just got to make
a few phone calls.
Come on, let's go.
Sorry. I'm so sorry.
Excuse me.
Hey, there.
Hey. Sorry to interrupt,
but Issy just had
an accident at table tennis.
A ball went into her eye.
Oh, what? How bad is it?
Oh, hopefully, it's going
to be OK.
But, yeah. Look, I still want
to book her in
to see an ophthalmologist,
for sure.
OK. Um...
Well, I'll finish up here
and I'll see you at home
shortly.
Love you.
That's a nice colour.
Mm-hm. It's my favourite.
Hey, peanut. You alright?
Yeah, I'm alright.
Let me see.
Oh...
We're all making too much
of a fuss about nothing.
We're not making a fuss
about it.
It's not nothing, Issy.
We're going to take you to the
eye specialist on Tuesday, OK?
Your mum's right.
Your eyesight is important.
In fact, that's how your mum
and I met.
What do you mean?
Well, she was doing her masters,
and I volunteered to be
a patient at the school.
I was one of her guinea pigs.
Ooh. Was it romantic?
Of course.
How was it for you, dear?
Well, you can see
how it all turned out.
Ooh!
My special guinea pig!
Guinea pig wants some fun.
No fun tonight!
Good night, guinea pig.
Alright. Let's see.
No fun, huh?
No to fun?
That sounds sexy now.
You only have one.
No.
You only have one child!
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
I'm thinking,
that you're aware of.
Are you hearing this, Mum?
Sorry, what?
Don't you have a twin?
No!
-Then who is...
-I was just thinking maybe...
Who was the other...
Who was the good child?
The one that, you know...
No, the really... The one...
The one that works
really hard at...
Oh, where did that one go?
Can't remember.
No, just joking.
You're the bestest.
The bestest?
Dr Nelson,
phone call on line three.
Hi. Would you mind signing
this for me, please?
It's so we can take
a blood sample.
OK, I'll see
if I can get that.
Thanks. Bye.
Caulfield Eye Clinic.
How can I help you?
Off we go, young lady.
Of course.
The first available is...
Which one of you would like
to come with us?
Could you?
I'm just not feeling
too crash hot at the moment.
OK, sure,
and your name, please?
Sure.
Come on.
And don't forget
to bring your Medicare card.
OK, thanks.
Fortunately, there were
no serious effects from the
impact of the ping pong ball.
However, I did notice
that Isabella has a tendency
to move her head
more than her eyes
when following things.
Isn't that sort of normal?
Yes. Well, it depends
on a number of factors,
and it can be absolutely normal.
Or in some cases,
it might be symptomatic,
as it was
in your daughter's case.
Um, symptomatic of what?
Tunnel vision...
as a result of a fairly rare
genetic disorder
called Retinitis Pigmentosa.
How are we going to tell Issy
that she has an untreatable
eye condition,
and she could be legally blind
within 12 months?
Well, according to Dr Rossi,
it's not untreatable.
Stem cell therapy?
Right. You know about that?
Yeah, but all I know
is that it's in clinical trials,
so it's unproven
and experimental.
But, Sam, I think
it's worth a try.
We've just got to move fast.
I'll talk
to Dr Rossi again...
see if we can get
more information...
No, definitely. Definitely.
I mean, it's...
-Bye, Dad.
-See you later.
Bye!
I did notice
that Isabella has a tendency
to move her head more than
her eyes when following things.
What's going on?
Tell me what's going on.
It's about the doctors
and the tests, isn't it?
-I'm not stupid!
-Issy.
You can't talk to your mum
like that.
I know you're upset.
Issy, what you have...
It's called
Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Most people call it RP.
And what happens
is that your vision,
it goes from seeing out here...
to seeing just only
a little bit in the centre.
Am I going blind?
Not if we can help it.
We're going to do everything
we can
so you can see
as much as you can
for as long as you can.
Alana.
Alana. Enough.
No, I just need to...
You're not going
to solve it tonight.
Maybe not even tomorrow.
But we're in this together.
I should have picked
it up earlier.
Stop!
It is not your fault.
It is not anyone's fault.
We just take it step by step.
Dr Rossi said that the best stem
cell donors are a family member.
So, we do the blood tests
tomorrow
and see which one of us that is,
and we take it from there.
Dad...
You always told me to keep
my chin up...
never to cry.
What's going on with you?
Are you unwell?
It is something to do with Issy?
But it's not what you think.
It's about Issy.
And it's about me too.
You know the one thing
about Dad?
He didn't judge me.
Can you be like that for me now?
Tell me, what have you done?
I won't judge you.
I promise.
You need to tell him
as soon as possible.
I know. I've been trying
to find a way, but...
each time I get close,
I just freeze
and nothing comes out.
You are thinking too much.
Sam is a reasonable man.
Of course, he will get angry
at the beginning.
Anybody would.
But he will see that you didn't
mean for it to happen.
You were not trying
to deceive him.
He loves you and Issy.
He would not risk losing you.
Trust me.
Be brave, Alana.
Tell him.
That's the right thing to do.
No, we're just a little bit
under the pump.
The paperwork should be ready
in the next few days.
Yep.
Uh, Jake, I got to run.
Can I call you back?
Hey.
What a pleasant surprise.
Everything OK?
Can we talk?
Now? Uh...
Yeah, sure. I've got 30 minutes
till my next client.
How was your blood test?
Fine. Yeah, they should know
the results
in the next few days.
Right.
I really need to talk
to you now.
I know the results, Sam.
You won't be
a prospective donor.
You're not the carrier
of the gene we need.
Well, then that leaves you.
I'm not a good match either.
Well, there's got to be someone.
That's true.
Someone is.
Yes?
The test results will show
there are some other
genetic indicators.
Jesus. What?
What I'm trying to say
is that your blood type
doesn't fit with Issy's.
I'm sorry. What are you saying?
You're not Issy's biological
father.
Sam, I...
I am so sorry, Sam.
I swear, I didn't know it
myself.
It was just a one-night thing.
It was before us.
Please, just let me explain.
You need to leave. Get out!
You need to leave!
Sam, I...
Hi. This is Sam.
Please leave a message.
Sam, can we please talk?
Can you keep it coming?
Hey!
Take your towel off. You need to
let your hair dry. It's late.
I will.
Here's your sport shirt.
Put it by your bag
so you don't forget, OK?
OK.
Where's Dad?
He got stuck at work.
Go brush your teeth.
Go to bed. I'll tuck you in.
-OK, night-night.
-Night.
Sam, thank god you're home.
I don't know why I even came
back here.
You've made us live a lie
for the past 12 years.
Were you ever going to tell me
that I'm not actually the father
of my daughter?
Sam, I only found out when...
Look, I met the guy
before we got together.
He was a Mexican Para-Judo
champion with RP.
It was a one-off.
He was here for
the Paralympic Games.
But I always thought
she was yours.
He...
Now I know.
So, this...
This guy doesn't know
about Issy either?
No.
Yeah, I don't know
what to believe anymore.
It was nothing, OK?
Just stop! Sam!
I'm going downstairs to sleep.
You need to pull my hair
a bit tighter, Mum.
Don't want it to go all loose
by lunch like last time.
Yeah, I'm trying my best.
Geez...
Ow, that's just too tight.
I'm sorry. I'm trying, OK?
OK, OK, I...
I give up.
Maybe Dad should have a go.
Sure.
Sam.
Sorry. Yeah.
Issy wants you to do her hair.
You did a really good job
last time.
Everyone loved it.
But no pressure.
Pass me your brush.
...is still getting through.
The eastbound lanes
are also suffering...
The Calder is flowing
reasonably well...
...and the South Eastern's slow
but the traffic is still moving
at a reasonable pace.
For those coming in
from the west, unfortunately...
Can we sit over there?
Yeah, sure.
No, I'm not hungry.
It's not like you to pass
on a caramel slice.
Are you OK?
I just didn't get any sleep
last night.
I know you're worried
about Issy.
It's a shock right now.
But you and Sam
will sort this out.
Issy is strong.
Yeah, god, I just... I feel...
so bad.
You know about RP,
but they're progressing
in scientific treatments
every day.
Do you remember
when I was at uni...
and...
I met that Mexican guy?
The Paralympic judo one?
You said he was nice.
Yeah.
Didn't he have
some kind of blindness?
Alana.
Did he have RP?
Are you telling me what I think
you're telling me?
Does Sam know?
I had to tell him.
God, he was so angry.
I feel so terrible.
I really didn't know.
I always thought Issy was his,
I did.
I think I'm going to lose him.
I can't, I can't.
I am so sorry, Alana.
Can you talk to Sam?
I tried, I tried.
I was just so focused
on finding a donor.
Well, what about the judo guy?
What?
He's probably her best chance.
No, no.
I couldn't do that to Sam.
Alana, you and Sam both love her
and want what's best
for her future.
I know.
The way I see it,
you don't have a choice.
If it was me, I'd go find him.
Oh...
Sam and I found a donor
and he actually has RP.
A close relative?
Yes.
A very close relative?
Yes. Very close.
Is there anything more
you need to know?
No.
That's a good start.
The problem is that he's
probably in Mexico.
Probably?
Well, I'd have to double check,
but I think he is.
Can we do the stem cell
extraction from over there?
Oh, no, that would not be
a good idea.
The samples wouldn't even
survive the journey.
What we need is for the donor
and the recipient
to be at the same place
at similar times,
and we prefer that to be here
rather than Mexico.
Is the donor willing to travel?
I hope so.
You know, there's no guarantee
that the treatment will take
and if it does, just how
effective it will be.
But it won't make her any worse?
That's correct.
OK.
Sam, this isn't about us.
-It's about Issy.
-Issy. I know.
Her future depends on someone
who doesn't even know
she exists.
I don't even know
if he'll remember me.
We need to find him.
I'll see what I can dig up
about him.
I don't want to waste any time.
Well, hopefully you'll be able
to find an email address
or a phone number
of where he works.
Everyone's online these days.
It shouldn't be too hard.
I can't just email him, Sam.
If we find him, I have
to tell him in person.
You can't ring him or Zoom?
Breaking it to him in person
is the least I can do.
Besides this whole stem cell
thing, it's not that simple.
Even if he's a match, the cells
won't survive the trip back.
We're going to need him
to come to Melbourne.
Really?
He has to come here?
The cells can't be frozen
or something?
No, it's too risky.
Jesus, I'll have to meet him.
Sam, this is Issy's only chance.
Fine.
But I don't want this man
being part of our lives.
Particularly Issy.
I don't want her to know
about this. Ever.
That she has a different father?
Yes.
Why does she need to know?
I'm afraid that this could
change everything between us.
It doesn't have to.
She mustn't know!
If we find him and convince him
to come here,
he might want to meet Issy.
We need him, Sam.
Sorry! I'm late!
Your mum and dad are super busy
with work today.
So, you're stuck with me.
Are we heading to yours,
Wai-Poh?
Yeah, we will grab some snacks
and tissues on the way.
My favourite soap
is on this afternoon.
The one with the sad story?
They're all sad, Issy.
True. Can I get some
panda biscuits?
Yes, of course.
But promise,
don't tell your mum.
OK.
Strawberry?
Chocolate?
Which would you like?
Chocolate.
We have to tell her.
I don't know when.
I don't know how.
I don't have a clue.
We need to tell her
before I go.
So, she understands why
I'm going to find a donor
for the operation.
We don't have to tell her
who it is.
OK.
This is a lot for an 11-year-old
girl to process
and on top of that,
she's got the stress
of an operation to go through.
Can't we wait till that's over?
None of this is easy, OK?
I need your support.
I really do.
Hello!
All good.
You're tall enough
to do that now.
-Ow!
-Oh, you OK?
Stupid eyes! I hate them!
Hey, you've got beautiful eyes.
Don't let anyone tell you
otherwise, OK?
Me and Daddy, we're trying
to find a solution.
There's a procedure
that might help.
What kind of procedure?
That sounds scary.
No, it's not scary, darling.
I promise.
Me and Daddy,
and Wai-Poh too...
We're going to be with you
every step of the way, OK?
There's a place you can get
some training.
You can learn
the best way to see
and they teach you how to use
all your other senses...
and if me and Daddy
are working,
Wai-Poh can take you.
It'll be fun.
Will there be other kids there?
Kids like me?
I don't know. Maybe. But...
you're a brave girl.
You're going to be just fine.
I promise.
Everything's more
closed down than usual.
The glasses show you
what things could be like
as your RP progresses.
So...
let's get started.
Imagine you're travelling
on this train.
Mm-hm.
Maybe you're going into the city
to do some shopping.
Or maybe you're visiting
the museum.
You've both come to your stop
and you need to get off.
What would you do next?
Right, Issy, let's go.
We need to move to the door.
This is our stop.
Why don't you lead, Issy?
It's OK.
Look out for things when moving
through the train.
Use your hands if you have to.
Look for the button, Issy,
and press it to open the doors.
Found it.
Good job.
Now...
step off the carriage
to the platform.
Watch out for the gap between
the train and the platform.
Is today a special day, Wai-Poh?
Why do you pray to them?
Talking to your grandfather,
my father,
your Tai-Gong.
Asking for advice, for help.
It doesn't have to be
a special day for me to do this.
But they're not actually
here, here.
I cannot see them.
You cannot see them.
But they are still here.
Gong-Gong, Tai-Gong,
can you please help
with my eyes?
Yes, they will.
We all will, Issy.
No matter where we are.
So, your Mum
has to go here.
She wants to find someone
who might be able to help
with your eyes.
But I like Dr Rossi.
Well, the person I'm trying
to find isn't a doctor,
but he has a same eye condition
as you,
so might be able to help.
In Mexico?
Yeah.
But that's halfway round
the world.
How long are you going for?
What if something happens?
Issy, I'll always be with you,
even when you can't see me.
Like Gong-Gong and Tai-Gong?
'Cause you're in my heart?
Except that I'll be coming back
to you as quickly as I can.
Will you bring me back
a present?
Best one I can find.
Hello.
Looking for this man,
Nico Robles?
Is he here?
He's not
coming here today.
But there is another school
where he teaches.
There's a chance he's there.
Here, walking...
Fifteen minutes.
-Thanks.
-Good luck.
Hey! How's Issy?
Have you told her
about Nico yet?
Miss you.
Now, let me know
when you step onto
something different.
-Here?
-Yes.
What you're standing on
are called tactiles.
They're designed to help people
with low vision
know when a street crossing
is ahead.
OK, Dad, we stop here.
Right.
Now, Issy, feel
for the button and press it.
Listen to the sound.
What does that mean?
Go.
Good.
Come on, Dad, let's cross.
Great work.
Well done, Is.
-Thanks.
-Good job, Issy.
How do you think you went
on your second go?
I was definitely
listening out more
and sensing my surroundings
a lot better.
Hey, why don't we stop and...
get some ice cream?
Seriously?
Yeah.
Dad?
Yes, peanut.
You don't like ice cream,
and you don't like me eating
ice cream,
except on special days.
Is today a special day?
I thought you deserved a treat.
I thought we could maybe just...
sit and talk.
Or maybe...
You know...
We can talk about whatever
or not at all.
Let's just eat ice cream?
Sounds good to me.
How is it?
It's not bad.
Mine's pretty good too.
Ooh.
Not too spicy for you, Sam?
Nope.
I like spice.
Good.
Why didn't you go with her?
I don't know
how to process this.
With her gone, I can't...
work, I can't sleep,
I can't...
It's as if my world's been...
turned upside down
and no one's bothered
to tell me.
She might feel the same.
Well, maybe I should...
get on a plane and go.
I think you should.
Hello. Hello.
Hello.
Looking for this man,
Nico Robles?
Ah-ha.
-Is he here?
-Ah, yes. Nico.
-Do you speak English?
-Uh-huh.
Um, yes,
he teaches here,
but, uh, he's out of town
at a tournament
with his students.
Uh, but he'll be back
in a couple of days though.
OK.
Um...
Look, he's got class.
He's there in the afternoon.
You can come back
then if you like.
OK.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Hi.
Oh, hi.
Sorry, I didn't mean
to startle you.
My name is Nico.
Um, I'm Alana.
I'm your volunteer.
I've been assigned to help you
and your team.
Oh, right.
Retinitis Pigmentosa.
It's hereti...
-Hereti...
-Hereditary?
Yeah.
My grandmother had it,
but I can see enough.
Can I have the room in the back?
Yes, you can.
Oh, Issy. Shoes!
Sam...
I don't care what the tests say.
You are her father.
You're all she's ever known.
Just get that man to say yes.
Not too much.
Just half of a tablespoon
will do.
Half a tablespoon
with a little bit more.
-Yeah.
-And a little bit more.
New photo?
Yeah, I found it in my drawer
the other day.
Thought I would frame it.
Is this you?
Yeah.
When I was 16.
You look like Tai-Gong.
That's what people used to say.
He was the tailor, you know?
He taught me how to sew.
Issy.
How far out can you see?
Um...
Like, to here, then... Here.
OK. Hold it.
Yep.
Here and here.
Right?
Mm-hm.
-I'll put this back.
-Yeah.
What?
I can't believe you're here.
How's Issy? Is she OK?
Yeah. She's fine.
She's with your mum.
I had to come.
Alana, I needed to tell you,
you and Issy
mean everything to me.
Without you both, I won't cope.
I want you to know that.
Hi, Mum. Hi, Dad.
You're together.
Yes, we are, sweetie.
How are things?
We're all good.
Wai-Poh lets me stay up late
and eat lots of chocolate.
You weren't supposed
to tell them that!
Just make sure you brush
those teeth of yours.
I will. Promise.
We've got to go now, sweetie,
but, um, we'll call you
tomorrow, OK?
OK. Bye.
-Love you, peanut.
-Bye. I love you.
Did you find him?
He's away in a tournament.
But when he returns,
you should...
You should meet him.
But please, just...
Let me tell him about Issy
on my own.
OK?
Fair enough.
I thought I was going
to lose you.
And Issy.
And everything that we built
together.
Neither of us saw this coming.
I thought you'd just leave.
I don't care about genetics.
Neither do I.
You're her dad.
I'm her mum.
We're a family.
There are three suits
in total.
Dots, bamboo and characters.
Each suit has four sets
and each set has nine tiles,
numbered one to nine.
There are also four winds.
North, south, east and west.
Unless you are the dealer,
you can have 13 tiles per hand
at any one time.
You need to play a long game
and be patient.
It's cool that I can feel
to play, right?
Mm-hm. You can, Issy.
Your instincts will get stronger
with practice.
Uh, hello.
-Hello. Oh, hi.
-Hi.
I was here the other day
and spoke to you about Nico.
Nico, yes.
He's upstairs at the dojo.
OK. Thank you.
Hi, Nico.
Alana?
What are you doing here?
Can we talk?
There's a new stem cell
procedure.
It offers some hope.
It may help her keep the vision
she has.
The donor needs to be
a genetic match.
But...
You have to come to Melbourne.
I know, I know,
it's a lot to ask.
Will you do it?
She looks like me.
She does.
She's beautiful.
Are you married?
Yes, I am.
Children?
Nope.
We talk about it.
But it wasn't meant to be.
And now, you tell me
we have a daughter.
What are you going to tell
your wife?
The truth.
I'm going to tell her the truth.
Exactly as you have told me.
And Frida came back.
She had plantar
fasciitis again.
And then it had to be
shock therapy,
because if not, it's not
going to come out. Never.
That hurts a lot.
My love...
I have never lied to you.
And that there are no secrets
between us.
What I'm going to tell you...
I didn't know it either.
Until a few hours ago.
I have a daughter in Australia.
She is eleven years old.
I had no idea of her existence
until today.
The mother realised that I...
I am the father.
Because she was diagnosed with
the same eye disease as me.
And this woman came to the dojo
today with her husband.
That story sounds
completely made-up.
It's surely a scam, right?
It's the truth.
Nico,
We can't have children.
I suffered inside for years.
And now you come out with the
fact that you have a daughter
with a stranger?
It was an accident.
It was a long time ago.
I would never do anything
to hurt you.
I know this hurts you.
What do they want?
There is an operation
that can help the girl.
But they need stem cells,
and I would have to
go to Australia.
What did you tell them?
I said nothing.
I wanted to talk to you first.
You feel something for her?
I don't feel anything
for this woman.
She may be the mother
of my daughter,
but she is not my wife.
I don't even know how I feel
about this girl,
I have a lot to process.
How many hours
to get to Australia?
About twenty-four hours.
If you don't want me to go,
I won't go, period.
It's that simple.
If you're wondering
who is my priority in this life,
my answer is you.
I want to meet them.
I want to meet her.
Hey...
Thanks for coming over.
Good morning.
A table in the name of Alana?
On this side.
Alana?
Alana. Yes.
Dani.
How are you?
Good.
Sam.
Thank you for coming, Dani.
Please have a seat.
Would you like a coffee?
Yes. Cafe Latte.
Uh, Tres. Three.
One moment.
How are you?
Fine.
Thank you.
Will Nico be joining us?
Uh, he has classes today.
He can't make it.
Can I see a photo
of your daughter?
Isabella.
Nico tried to explain
this procedure,
but I have some questions.
Will he be in danger?
No. The procedure
is completely safe.
We would not want to risk Nico
or Issy's sight.
You have our word.
I won't lie, this is quite
the surprise.
But I wanted to see you both,
and look you in the eye.
I would have done the same.
I will discuss this further
with Nico.
At the end of the day,
it's his decision to make,
but he needs more time
to think about it.
I'm sure you understand.
And I'll support his decision
either way.
What if he says no?
Nico.
She's not here.
Look, I...
I understand the shock
of all this, believe me,
and we can't change
what's happened.
But we can do something
for Issy.
Will you please...
help my daughter?
Our daughter.
Look, I don't care who made her.
I'm her father.
I want to meet her.
We can't tell her that you're
her biological dad.
Dealing with RP is enough
for her right now.
I can let you call yourself
a donor.
I don't think you can let me
do anything.
Isabella should know.
When the time is right
and now is not the time.
Please.
Do the procedure.
For Issy.
Thank you.
Are you sure
this is what you want?
You don't have to do it,
you know?
I know.
But it's the right thing to do.
This is your home.
I love you.
It's the... five bamboo.
Turn it over and have a look.
Discard this.
That's good one, Issy.
Let me try another.
I don't know this one.
That's 'fa' or prosperity.
Does it match any of your tiles?
Hmm...
I'm not sure.
Then discard it.
Good girl.
Remember, you can always change
the hand you're dealt
or turn any hand into a win.
Will you tell her about me?
Eventually.
Let's just get through
this first.
Thanks again for coming, Nico.
I'm happy to help.
I get to see my Australian coach
again.
How was your flight?
Long.
Thanks for taking care of Issy.
No problem at all.
She's outside.
Iss...
Dad, you're back!
You're bigger.
Where's Mum?
She is, um, dropping
someone off,
but we'll see her at home.
Did you remember my present?
It's in Mum's bag.
No!
Iss...
-Yeah.
-I need to tell you something.
You keep saying that.
Just tell me the something.
Is it a good something
or a bad something?
It's not a good
or a bad something.
It's a matter of fact something,
I suppose.
I know they...
they told you how babies
are made at school.
Is that right?
Ew, and yes.
There's a sperm and an egg.
Gross.
So, the sperm that helped
to make you...
It came from someone else.
What do you mean, someone else?
I mean, not me.
Another man.
But you're my dad, right?
Of course.
Then why are you saying
all this stuff?
Dad, this conversation's
really weird.
I don't want another dad.
I just want things to go back
to the way they were.
I know, I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
You OK?
You know...
My father left us when my sister
and I were kids.
I was not older than you are.
You never spoke about this.
It was just as well
because our stepfather
was the kindest man
in the world.
Tai-Gong?
Yeah.
He loved us and brought us up
as his own.
We called him Dad.
He was our real father.
Your parents love you very much.
You must know this.
You are going to be just fine,
darling.
We're sorry.
The man you found in Mexico...
Is he my real dad?
Your biological dad.
Does that mean
I got my eyes from him?
Mm-hm.
Nico's done a lot.
Despite his eyes.
So will you.
Can I meet him?
That's not my decision to make.
Throw it.
Come on, come on, come on,
come on. Oh, yeah.
Watch your hands.
Push it.
Well done.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
Come on, come on, throw it,
throw, throw, throw, throw it.
-Let's go over there.
-Mm-hm.
One more time.
Use your hands.
Come on, come on.
Look who's stronger now.
There's Nico.
And he can hardly see?
He can see a little bit.
One more time. You can do it.
How does he do
all this stuff then?
Why don't you ask him yourself?
Whoa! Good.
Nico?
Hi. I'm Issy.
Hi.
Just a minute.
Well, nice to meet you, Issy.
I'm so glad you came here
to see me.
- Hi.
- Hey hey.
Did you see me fight?
Yeah, I really liked it.
I thought you were really cool.
Thank you.
How do you do all that stuff
if you can't see properly?
Honestly, I don't know.
Maybe because I've been
doing this my full life.
Um, do you know?
You can do many things
when your eyes are closed.
If you practise and practise
and practise,
it becomes easier.
It's good to start young.
Do you think that judo
is hereti...
Hereti...
Do you mean if you
can inherit judo?
100%, yes.
Oh, let me show you something.
My wife, Dani.
She's pretty.
Can I take a picture of us?
To show my family.
Do you know Scissors,
Paper, Rock?
Yes.
-Ready?
-Yes.
Scissors,
paper, rock.
Hey.
So, how was your walk
with your bio dad?
He showed me pictures
of his wife and his judo medals.
He's awesome.
He's a judo champion.
This operation isn't going
to improve my eyes completely,
is it?
It could help you see
a bit clearer.
And it's the best the doctors
can do.
I don't know which is scarier.
Going blind or the operation.
I know.
But if there's a chance
it can help you
even just a little bit,
your mum and I think
it's worth a try.
And if it doesn't work?
Well, we would've
at least tried, right?
You know, you'll always be
my special girl.
Promise?
Promise.
I'm just going to flush
your cannula.
You're going to feel
a slight pressure.
It'll be quick.
Could you count to 20 for us,
Issy?
...two, three...
...four...
five...
Dr Nelson,
phone call on line three.
Do you believe in fate?
No.
Not particularly.
You don't believe
that we were destined?
Is that what you believe?
I believe we're meant
for each other.
Then I can go along with that.
Isabella's out of surgery.
Everything went smoothly.
We'll give it a few days.
See how things go.
She's got the best chance
we can give her.
And when will we know
when the...
when her condition
is stabilised?
It varies. Um, with stem cell
treatment,
the results can take
a few weeks.
Might take longer.
OK.
-Can we see her?
-Oh, of course. Yeah.
Um, she's in recovery.
She's still asleep, but you can
go and sit with her.
Yeah.
Come this way.
And Nico's OK?
Yeah, he's good.
She's pretty special, isn't she?
I know.
She's brave, inquisitive...
And funny...
and smart.
At least some of that's
because of us, you know?
You have both done a good job.
So far anyway.
Well, let's not mess it up now,
eh?
Deal?
Deal.
Oh...
How are your eyes, darling?
Bit sore, but OK.
It's still fuzzy round
the edges though.
Yes, that's not going
to go away,
but hopefully, it won't get
any worse.
How's Mr Nico?
Is he alright?
Let me go check.
Hey, Nico.
How you doing?
It hurts a little bit,
but it's OK.
How is Issy?
Come and see for yourself.
Hey, look who's here.
Hi, Issy.
How are you? How do you feel?
I'm alright.
Thank you so much.
My pleasure.
Now, I have to get ready
to fly home.
But I'll be back soon.
Can I give her a hug?
-Oh, of course, Nico.
-Sure.
Yeah.
See you soon?
I hope so.
Nico.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Now, start.
Remember, left, right.
Left, right.
One, two.
Well, yeah!
Try to find the moment.
One more time.
Watch your posture
and do it stronger.
One... Yes.
Left, right. Left, right.
Yes. Well done.
Oh, great! Yeah.
Papi Nico, next time,
you must bring Dani.
I want to show her my skills.
For sure.
She would love to come.
Maybe you can teach Dad.
Of course, why not? Yeah.
That would be amazing.
So, I can keep up with you, Iss.
Hey, Mum!
- Issy, don't run! Issy!
- Mum!
I learned a new trick today.
I can show you.
How about
that Korean barbecue place
off Swanston Street?
Your favourite.
You mean, your favourite.
Sure, we can go wild
on Wagyu beef.
Only because
you know I love my meat.
Ah, OK.
Look, I gotta go.
We're at Mum's, OK?
OK. Love you, peanut.
-Love you, Dad.
-Say hi to Wai-Poh.
Bye!
OK, so remember to set
the alarm on your watch
for table tennis. Yeah?
You know Wai-Poh
can be a bit forgetful,
and then I'll finish work early,
and I'll help you
with your maths.
But can we go to the park first?
Please?
OK.
Let's go.
I really need to win
my money back.
Like I am going
to let you?
Game four, take two.
Is that your..
Wai-Poh, time to go.
Ping-pong, I know,
I haven't forgotten.
You're corrupting
your granddaughter.
Does her mother knows that she's
learning mahjong from us?
Yes, she's learning
from the experts.
Issy, you can always hang out
with us all the time.
-Sik wu.
-Pong!
Ai-yo!
How could that happen?
Well, ladies, you snooze,
you lose.
I tried to warn you.
Pay up.
So, which side
is clearer and more distinct?
The circles on the red
or the circles on the green?
Red. No, no. Green.
Green? And how about now?
-About the same.
-Same. Good. You're doing well.
And now, is it better one
or better two?
One.
Yeah, that's good, Luke.
Excellent.
You can have a go now.
Ow!
Are you alright, Issy?
Yeah. I'm fine.
Issy, let me look.
Are you OK?
Wai-Poh, stop!
You're embarrassing me.
Don't be silly. Let me see.
It's fine! Let me play.
I'm calling your mother.
Oh, look at your
beautiful family.
Oh, thank you.
That was my daughter's
birthday party in March.
And this one?
Oh, that was a Para-Judo
tournament.
I was a volunteer.
Haven't done any of that
in ages.
Not since I started a family.
Sorry. Just hold on two secs.
It's my mum.
I've got to grab it.
I'll get our dispenser
to help you with some frames.
-Thank you.
-Yep, great. Thanks.
Hey, Mum.
Oh, what?
Issy, please, just...
Mum, I'm fine.
I'm sure you are.
Come on. Just look here.
I know it's bright, darling.
Nearly done.
OK. Just try again, OK.
Looking here again.
Can you just take Issy out
just for a few minutes?
I've just got to make
a few phone calls.
Come on, let's go.
Sorry. I'm so sorry.
Excuse me.
Hey, there.
Hey. Sorry to interrupt,
but Issy just had
an accident at table tennis.
A ball went into her eye.
Oh, what? How bad is it?
Oh, hopefully, it's going
to be OK.
But, yeah. Look, I still want
to book her in
to see an ophthalmologist,
for sure.
OK. Um...
Well, I'll finish up here
and I'll see you at home
shortly.
Love you.
That's a nice colour.
Mm-hm. It's my favourite.
Hey, peanut. You alright?
Yeah, I'm alright.
Let me see.
Oh...
We're all making too much
of a fuss about nothing.
We're not making a fuss
about it.
It's not nothing, Issy.
We're going to take you to the
eye specialist on Tuesday, OK?
Your mum's right.
Your eyesight is important.
In fact, that's how your mum
and I met.
What do you mean?
Well, she was doing her masters,
and I volunteered to be
a patient at the school.
I was one of her guinea pigs.
Ooh. Was it romantic?
Of course.
How was it for you, dear?
Well, you can see
how it all turned out.
Ooh!
My special guinea pig!
Guinea pig wants some fun.
No fun tonight!
Good night, guinea pig.
Alright. Let's see.
No fun, huh?
No to fun?
That sounds sexy now.
You only have one.
No.
You only have one child!
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
I'm thinking,
that you're aware of.
Are you hearing this, Mum?
Sorry, what?
Don't you have a twin?
No!
-Then who is...
-I was just thinking maybe...
Who was the other...
Who was the good child?
The one that, you know...
No, the really... The one...
The one that works
really hard at...
Oh, where did that one go?
Can't remember.
No, just joking.
You're the bestest.
The bestest?
Dr Nelson,
phone call on line three.
Hi. Would you mind signing
this for me, please?
It's so we can take
a blood sample.
OK, I'll see
if I can get that.
Thanks. Bye.
Caulfield Eye Clinic.
How can I help you?
Off we go, young lady.
Of course.
The first available is...
Which one of you would like
to come with us?
Could you?
I'm just not feeling
too crash hot at the moment.
OK, sure,
and your name, please?
Sure.
Come on.
And don't forget
to bring your Medicare card.
OK, thanks.
Fortunately, there were
no serious effects from the
impact of the ping pong ball.
However, I did notice
that Isabella has a tendency
to move her head
more than her eyes
when following things.
Isn't that sort of normal?
Yes. Well, it depends
on a number of factors,
and it can be absolutely normal.
Or in some cases,
it might be symptomatic,
as it was
in your daughter's case.
Um, symptomatic of what?
Tunnel vision...
as a result of a fairly rare
genetic disorder
called Retinitis Pigmentosa.
How are we going to tell Issy
that she has an untreatable
eye condition,
and she could be legally blind
within 12 months?
Well, according to Dr Rossi,
it's not untreatable.
Stem cell therapy?
Right. You know about that?
Yeah, but all I know
is that it's in clinical trials,
so it's unproven
and experimental.
But, Sam, I think
it's worth a try.
We've just got to move fast.
I'll talk
to Dr Rossi again...
see if we can get
more information...
No, definitely. Definitely.
I mean, it's...
-Bye, Dad.
-See you later.
Bye!
I did notice
that Isabella has a tendency
to move her head more than
her eyes when following things.
What's going on?
Tell me what's going on.
It's about the doctors
and the tests, isn't it?
-I'm not stupid!
-Issy.
You can't talk to your mum
like that.
I know you're upset.
Issy, what you have...
It's called
Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Most people call it RP.
And what happens
is that your vision,
it goes from seeing out here...
to seeing just only
a little bit in the centre.
Am I going blind?
Not if we can help it.
We're going to do everything
we can
so you can see
as much as you can
for as long as you can.
Alana.
Alana. Enough.
No, I just need to...
You're not going
to solve it tonight.
Maybe not even tomorrow.
But we're in this together.
I should have picked
it up earlier.
Stop!
It is not your fault.
It is not anyone's fault.
We just take it step by step.
Dr Rossi said that the best stem
cell donors are a family member.
So, we do the blood tests
tomorrow
and see which one of us that is,
and we take it from there.
Dad...
You always told me to keep
my chin up...
never to cry.
What's going on with you?
Are you unwell?
It is something to do with Issy?
But it's not what you think.
It's about Issy.
And it's about me too.
You know the one thing
about Dad?
He didn't judge me.
Can you be like that for me now?
Tell me, what have you done?
I won't judge you.
I promise.
You need to tell him
as soon as possible.
I know. I've been trying
to find a way, but...
each time I get close,
I just freeze
and nothing comes out.
You are thinking too much.
Sam is a reasonable man.
Of course, he will get angry
at the beginning.
Anybody would.
But he will see that you didn't
mean for it to happen.
You were not trying
to deceive him.
He loves you and Issy.
He would not risk losing you.
Trust me.
Be brave, Alana.
Tell him.
That's the right thing to do.
No, we're just a little bit
under the pump.
The paperwork should be ready
in the next few days.
Yep.
Uh, Jake, I got to run.
Can I call you back?
Hey.
What a pleasant surprise.
Everything OK?
Can we talk?
Now? Uh...
Yeah, sure. I've got 30 minutes
till my next client.
How was your blood test?
Fine. Yeah, they should know
the results
in the next few days.
Right.
I really need to talk
to you now.
I know the results, Sam.
You won't be
a prospective donor.
You're not the carrier
of the gene we need.
Well, then that leaves you.
I'm not a good match either.
Well, there's got to be someone.
That's true.
Someone is.
Yes?
The test results will show
there are some other
genetic indicators.
Jesus. What?
What I'm trying to say
is that your blood type
doesn't fit with Issy's.
I'm sorry. What are you saying?
You're not Issy's biological
father.
Sam, I...
I am so sorry, Sam.
I swear, I didn't know it
myself.
It was just a one-night thing.
It was before us.
Please, just let me explain.
You need to leave. Get out!
You need to leave!
Sam, I...
Hi. This is Sam.
Please leave a message.
Sam, can we please talk?
Can you keep it coming?
Hey!
Take your towel off. You need to
let your hair dry. It's late.
I will.
Here's your sport shirt.
Put it by your bag
so you don't forget, OK?
OK.
Where's Dad?
He got stuck at work.
Go brush your teeth.
Go to bed. I'll tuck you in.
-OK, night-night.
-Night.
Sam, thank god you're home.
I don't know why I even came
back here.
You've made us live a lie
for the past 12 years.
Were you ever going to tell me
that I'm not actually the father
of my daughter?
Sam, I only found out when...
Look, I met the guy
before we got together.
He was a Mexican Para-Judo
champion with RP.
It was a one-off.
He was here for
the Paralympic Games.
But I always thought
she was yours.
He...
Now I know.
So, this...
This guy doesn't know
about Issy either?
No.
Yeah, I don't know
what to believe anymore.
It was nothing, OK?
Just stop! Sam!
I'm going downstairs to sleep.
You need to pull my hair
a bit tighter, Mum.
Don't want it to go all loose
by lunch like last time.
Yeah, I'm trying my best.
Geez...
Ow, that's just too tight.
I'm sorry. I'm trying, OK?
OK, OK, I...
I give up.
Maybe Dad should have a go.
Sure.
Sam.
Sorry. Yeah.
Issy wants you to do her hair.
You did a really good job
last time.
Everyone loved it.
But no pressure.
Pass me your brush.
...is still getting through.
The eastbound lanes
are also suffering...
The Calder is flowing
reasonably well...
...and the South Eastern's slow
but the traffic is still moving
at a reasonable pace.
For those coming in
from the west, unfortunately...
Can we sit over there?
Yeah, sure.
No, I'm not hungry.
It's not like you to pass
on a caramel slice.
Are you OK?
I just didn't get any sleep
last night.
I know you're worried
about Issy.
It's a shock right now.
But you and Sam
will sort this out.
Issy is strong.
Yeah, god, I just... I feel...
so bad.
You know about RP,
but they're progressing
in scientific treatments
every day.
Do you remember
when I was at uni...
and...
I met that Mexican guy?
The Paralympic judo one?
You said he was nice.
Yeah.
Didn't he have
some kind of blindness?
Alana.
Did he have RP?
Are you telling me what I think
you're telling me?
Does Sam know?
I had to tell him.
God, he was so angry.
I feel so terrible.
I really didn't know.
I always thought Issy was his,
I did.
I think I'm going to lose him.
I can't, I can't.
I am so sorry, Alana.
Can you talk to Sam?
I tried, I tried.
I was just so focused
on finding a donor.
Well, what about the judo guy?
What?
He's probably her best chance.
No, no.
I couldn't do that to Sam.
Alana, you and Sam both love her
and want what's best
for her future.
I know.
The way I see it,
you don't have a choice.
If it was me, I'd go find him.
Oh...
Sam and I found a donor
and he actually has RP.
A close relative?
Yes.
A very close relative?
Yes. Very close.
Is there anything more
you need to know?
No.
That's a good start.
The problem is that he's
probably in Mexico.
Probably?
Well, I'd have to double check,
but I think he is.
Can we do the stem cell
extraction from over there?
Oh, no, that would not be
a good idea.
The samples wouldn't even
survive the journey.
What we need is for the donor
and the recipient
to be at the same place
at similar times,
and we prefer that to be here
rather than Mexico.
Is the donor willing to travel?
I hope so.
You know, there's no guarantee
that the treatment will take
and if it does, just how
effective it will be.
But it won't make her any worse?
That's correct.
OK.
Sam, this isn't about us.
-It's about Issy.
-Issy. I know.
Her future depends on someone
who doesn't even know
she exists.
I don't even know
if he'll remember me.
We need to find him.
I'll see what I can dig up
about him.
I don't want to waste any time.
Well, hopefully you'll be able
to find an email address
or a phone number
of where he works.
Everyone's online these days.
It shouldn't be too hard.
I can't just email him, Sam.
If we find him, I have
to tell him in person.
You can't ring him or Zoom?
Breaking it to him in person
is the least I can do.
Besides this whole stem cell
thing, it's not that simple.
Even if he's a match, the cells
won't survive the trip back.
We're going to need him
to come to Melbourne.
Really?
He has to come here?
The cells can't be frozen
or something?
No, it's too risky.
Jesus, I'll have to meet him.
Sam, this is Issy's only chance.
Fine.
But I don't want this man
being part of our lives.
Particularly Issy.
I don't want her to know
about this. Ever.
That she has a different father?
Yes.
Why does she need to know?
I'm afraid that this could
change everything between us.
It doesn't have to.
She mustn't know!
If we find him and convince him
to come here,
he might want to meet Issy.
We need him, Sam.
Sorry! I'm late!
Your mum and dad are super busy
with work today.
So, you're stuck with me.
Are we heading to yours,
Wai-Poh?
Yeah, we will grab some snacks
and tissues on the way.
My favourite soap
is on this afternoon.
The one with the sad story?
They're all sad, Issy.
True. Can I get some
panda biscuits?
Yes, of course.
But promise,
don't tell your mum.
OK.
Strawberry?
Chocolate?
Which would you like?
Chocolate.
We have to tell her.
I don't know when.
I don't know how.
I don't have a clue.
We need to tell her
before I go.
So, she understands why
I'm going to find a donor
for the operation.
We don't have to tell her
who it is.
OK.
This is a lot for an 11-year-old
girl to process
and on top of that,
she's got the stress
of an operation to go through.
Can't we wait till that's over?
None of this is easy, OK?
I need your support.
I really do.
Hello!
All good.
You're tall enough
to do that now.
-Ow!
-Oh, you OK?
Stupid eyes! I hate them!
Hey, you've got beautiful eyes.
Don't let anyone tell you
otherwise, OK?
Me and Daddy, we're trying
to find a solution.
There's a procedure
that might help.
What kind of procedure?
That sounds scary.
No, it's not scary, darling.
I promise.
Me and Daddy,
and Wai-Poh too...
We're going to be with you
every step of the way, OK?
There's a place you can get
some training.
You can learn
the best way to see
and they teach you how to use
all your other senses...
and if me and Daddy
are working,
Wai-Poh can take you.
It'll be fun.
Will there be other kids there?
Kids like me?
I don't know. Maybe. But...
you're a brave girl.
You're going to be just fine.
I promise.
Everything's more
closed down than usual.
The glasses show you
what things could be like
as your RP progresses.
So...
let's get started.
Imagine you're travelling
on this train.
Mm-hm.
Maybe you're going into the city
to do some shopping.
Or maybe you're visiting
the museum.
You've both come to your stop
and you need to get off.
What would you do next?
Right, Issy, let's go.
We need to move to the door.
This is our stop.
Why don't you lead, Issy?
It's OK.
Look out for things when moving
through the train.
Use your hands if you have to.
Look for the button, Issy,
and press it to open the doors.
Found it.
Good job.
Now...
step off the carriage
to the platform.
Watch out for the gap between
the train and the platform.
Is today a special day, Wai-Poh?
Why do you pray to them?
Talking to your grandfather,
my father,
your Tai-Gong.
Asking for advice, for help.
It doesn't have to be
a special day for me to do this.
But they're not actually
here, here.
I cannot see them.
You cannot see them.
But they are still here.
Gong-Gong, Tai-Gong,
can you please help
with my eyes?
Yes, they will.
We all will, Issy.
No matter where we are.
So, your Mum
has to go here.
She wants to find someone
who might be able to help
with your eyes.
But I like Dr Rossi.
Well, the person I'm trying
to find isn't a doctor,
but he has a same eye condition
as you,
so might be able to help.
In Mexico?
Yeah.
But that's halfway round
the world.
How long are you going for?
What if something happens?
Issy, I'll always be with you,
even when you can't see me.
Like Gong-Gong and Tai-Gong?
'Cause you're in my heart?
Except that I'll be coming back
to you as quickly as I can.
Will you bring me back
a present?
Best one I can find.
Hello.
Looking for this man,
Nico Robles?
Is he here?
He's not
coming here today.
But there is another school
where he teaches.
There's a chance he's there.
Here, walking...
Fifteen minutes.
-Thanks.
-Good luck.
Hey! How's Issy?
Have you told her
about Nico yet?
Miss you.
Now, let me know
when you step onto
something different.
-Here?
-Yes.
What you're standing on
are called tactiles.
They're designed to help people
with low vision
know when a street crossing
is ahead.
OK, Dad, we stop here.
Right.
Now, Issy, feel
for the button and press it.
Listen to the sound.
What does that mean?
Go.
Good.
Come on, Dad, let's cross.
Great work.
Well done, Is.
-Thanks.
-Good job, Issy.
How do you think you went
on your second go?
I was definitely
listening out more
and sensing my surroundings
a lot better.
Hey, why don't we stop and...
get some ice cream?
Seriously?
Yeah.
Dad?
Yes, peanut.
You don't like ice cream,
and you don't like me eating
ice cream,
except on special days.
Is today a special day?
I thought you deserved a treat.
I thought we could maybe just...
sit and talk.
Or maybe...
You know...
We can talk about whatever
or not at all.
Let's just eat ice cream?
Sounds good to me.
How is it?
It's not bad.
Mine's pretty good too.
Ooh.
Not too spicy for you, Sam?
Nope.
I like spice.
Good.
Why didn't you go with her?
I don't know
how to process this.
With her gone, I can't...
work, I can't sleep,
I can't...
It's as if my world's been...
turned upside down
and no one's bothered
to tell me.
She might feel the same.
Well, maybe I should...
get on a plane and go.
I think you should.
Hello. Hello.
Hello.
Looking for this man,
Nico Robles?
Ah-ha.
-Is he here?
-Ah, yes. Nico.
-Do you speak English?
-Uh-huh.
Um, yes,
he teaches here,
but, uh, he's out of town
at a tournament
with his students.
Uh, but he'll be back
in a couple of days though.
OK.
Um...
Look, he's got class.
He's there in the afternoon.
You can come back
then if you like.
OK.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Hi.
Oh, hi.
Sorry, I didn't mean
to startle you.
My name is Nico.
Um, I'm Alana.
I'm your volunteer.
I've been assigned to help you
and your team.
Oh, right.
Retinitis Pigmentosa.
It's hereti...
-Hereti...
-Hereditary?
Yeah.
My grandmother had it,
but I can see enough.
Can I have the room in the back?
Yes, you can.
Oh, Issy. Shoes!
Sam...
I don't care what the tests say.
You are her father.
You're all she's ever known.
Just get that man to say yes.
Not too much.
Just half of a tablespoon
will do.
Half a tablespoon
with a little bit more.
-Yeah.
-And a little bit more.
New photo?
Yeah, I found it in my drawer
the other day.
Thought I would frame it.
Is this you?
Yeah.
When I was 16.
You look like Tai-Gong.
That's what people used to say.
He was the tailor, you know?
He taught me how to sew.
Issy.
How far out can you see?
Um...
Like, to here, then... Here.
OK. Hold it.
Yep.
Here and here.
Right?
Mm-hm.
-I'll put this back.
-Yeah.
What?
I can't believe you're here.
How's Issy? Is she OK?
Yeah. She's fine.
She's with your mum.
I had to come.
Alana, I needed to tell you,
you and Issy
mean everything to me.
Without you both, I won't cope.
I want you to know that.
Hi, Mum. Hi, Dad.
You're together.
Yes, we are, sweetie.
How are things?
We're all good.
Wai-Poh lets me stay up late
and eat lots of chocolate.
You weren't supposed
to tell them that!
Just make sure you brush
those teeth of yours.
I will. Promise.
We've got to go now, sweetie,
but, um, we'll call you
tomorrow, OK?
OK. Bye.
-Love you, peanut.
-Bye. I love you.
Did you find him?
He's away in a tournament.
But when he returns,
you should...
You should meet him.
But please, just...
Let me tell him about Issy
on my own.
OK?
Fair enough.
I thought I was going
to lose you.
And Issy.
And everything that we built
together.
Neither of us saw this coming.
I thought you'd just leave.
I don't care about genetics.
Neither do I.
You're her dad.
I'm her mum.
We're a family.
There are three suits
in total.
Dots, bamboo and characters.
Each suit has four sets
and each set has nine tiles,
numbered one to nine.
There are also four winds.
North, south, east and west.
Unless you are the dealer,
you can have 13 tiles per hand
at any one time.
You need to play a long game
and be patient.
It's cool that I can feel
to play, right?
Mm-hm. You can, Issy.
Your instincts will get stronger
with practice.
Uh, hello.
-Hello. Oh, hi.
-Hi.
I was here the other day
and spoke to you about Nico.
Nico, yes.
He's upstairs at the dojo.
OK. Thank you.
Hi, Nico.
Alana?
What are you doing here?
Can we talk?
There's a new stem cell
procedure.
It offers some hope.
It may help her keep the vision
she has.
The donor needs to be
a genetic match.
But...
You have to come to Melbourne.
I know, I know,
it's a lot to ask.
Will you do it?
She looks like me.
She does.
She's beautiful.
Are you married?
Yes, I am.
Children?
Nope.
We talk about it.
But it wasn't meant to be.
And now, you tell me
we have a daughter.
What are you going to tell
your wife?
The truth.
I'm going to tell her the truth.
Exactly as you have told me.
And Frida came back.
She had plantar
fasciitis again.
And then it had to be
shock therapy,
because if not, it's not
going to come out. Never.
That hurts a lot.
My love...
I have never lied to you.
And that there are no secrets
between us.
What I'm going to tell you...
I didn't know it either.
Until a few hours ago.
I have a daughter in Australia.
She is eleven years old.
I had no idea of her existence
until today.
The mother realised that I...
I am the father.
Because she was diagnosed with
the same eye disease as me.
And this woman came to the dojo
today with her husband.
That story sounds
completely made-up.
It's surely a scam, right?
It's the truth.
Nico,
We can't have children.
I suffered inside for years.
And now you come out with the
fact that you have a daughter
with a stranger?
It was an accident.
It was a long time ago.
I would never do anything
to hurt you.
I know this hurts you.
What do they want?
There is an operation
that can help the girl.
But they need stem cells,
and I would have to
go to Australia.
What did you tell them?
I said nothing.
I wanted to talk to you first.
You feel something for her?
I don't feel anything
for this woman.
She may be the mother
of my daughter,
but she is not my wife.
I don't even know how I feel
about this girl,
I have a lot to process.
How many hours
to get to Australia?
About twenty-four hours.
If you don't want me to go,
I won't go, period.
It's that simple.
If you're wondering
who is my priority in this life,
my answer is you.
I want to meet them.
I want to meet her.
Hey...
Thanks for coming over.
Good morning.
A table in the name of Alana?
On this side.
Alana?
Alana. Yes.
Dani.
How are you?
Good.
Sam.
Thank you for coming, Dani.
Please have a seat.
Would you like a coffee?
Yes. Cafe Latte.
Uh, Tres. Three.
One moment.
How are you?
Fine.
Thank you.
Will Nico be joining us?
Uh, he has classes today.
He can't make it.
Can I see a photo
of your daughter?
Isabella.
Nico tried to explain
this procedure,
but I have some questions.
Will he be in danger?
No. The procedure
is completely safe.
We would not want to risk Nico
or Issy's sight.
You have our word.
I won't lie, this is quite
the surprise.
But I wanted to see you both,
and look you in the eye.
I would have done the same.
I will discuss this further
with Nico.
At the end of the day,
it's his decision to make,
but he needs more time
to think about it.
I'm sure you understand.
And I'll support his decision
either way.
What if he says no?
Nico.
She's not here.
Look, I...
I understand the shock
of all this, believe me,
and we can't change
what's happened.
But we can do something
for Issy.
Will you please...
help my daughter?
Our daughter.
Look, I don't care who made her.
I'm her father.
I want to meet her.
We can't tell her that you're
her biological dad.
Dealing with RP is enough
for her right now.
I can let you call yourself
a donor.
I don't think you can let me
do anything.
Isabella should know.
When the time is right
and now is not the time.
Please.
Do the procedure.
For Issy.
Thank you.
Are you sure
this is what you want?
You don't have to do it,
you know?
I know.
But it's the right thing to do.
This is your home.
I love you.
It's the... five bamboo.
Turn it over and have a look.
Discard this.
That's good one, Issy.
Let me try another.
I don't know this one.
That's 'fa' or prosperity.
Does it match any of your tiles?
Hmm...
I'm not sure.
Then discard it.
Good girl.
Remember, you can always change
the hand you're dealt
or turn any hand into a win.
Will you tell her about me?
Eventually.
Let's just get through
this first.
Thanks again for coming, Nico.
I'm happy to help.
I get to see my Australian coach
again.
How was your flight?
Long.
Thanks for taking care of Issy.
No problem at all.
She's outside.
Iss...
Dad, you're back!
You're bigger.
Where's Mum?
She is, um, dropping
someone off,
but we'll see her at home.
Did you remember my present?
It's in Mum's bag.
No!
Iss...
-Yeah.
-I need to tell you something.
You keep saying that.
Just tell me the something.
Is it a good something
or a bad something?
It's not a good
or a bad something.
It's a matter of fact something,
I suppose.
I know they...
they told you how babies
are made at school.
Is that right?
Ew, and yes.
There's a sperm and an egg.
Gross.
So, the sperm that helped
to make you...
It came from someone else.
What do you mean, someone else?
I mean, not me.
Another man.
But you're my dad, right?
Of course.
Then why are you saying
all this stuff?
Dad, this conversation's
really weird.
I don't want another dad.
I just want things to go back
to the way they were.
I know, I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
You OK?
You know...
My father left us when my sister
and I were kids.
I was not older than you are.
You never spoke about this.
It was just as well
because our stepfather
was the kindest man
in the world.
Tai-Gong?
Yeah.
He loved us and brought us up
as his own.
We called him Dad.
He was our real father.
Your parents love you very much.
You must know this.
You are going to be just fine,
darling.
We're sorry.
The man you found in Mexico...
Is he my real dad?
Your biological dad.
Does that mean
I got my eyes from him?
Mm-hm.
Nico's done a lot.
Despite his eyes.
So will you.
Can I meet him?
That's not my decision to make.
Throw it.
Come on, come on, come on,
come on. Oh, yeah.
Watch your hands.
Push it.
Well done.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
Come on, come on, throw it,
throw, throw, throw, throw it.
-Let's go over there.
-Mm-hm.
One more time.
Use your hands.
Come on, come on.
Look who's stronger now.
There's Nico.
And he can hardly see?
He can see a little bit.
One more time. You can do it.
How does he do
all this stuff then?
Why don't you ask him yourself?
Whoa! Good.
Nico?
Hi. I'm Issy.
Hi.
Just a minute.
Well, nice to meet you, Issy.
I'm so glad you came here
to see me.
- Hi.
- Hey hey.
Did you see me fight?
Yeah, I really liked it.
I thought you were really cool.
Thank you.
How do you do all that stuff
if you can't see properly?
Honestly, I don't know.
Maybe because I've been
doing this my full life.
Um, do you know?
You can do many things
when your eyes are closed.
If you practise and practise
and practise,
it becomes easier.
It's good to start young.
Do you think that judo
is hereti...
Hereti...
Do you mean if you
can inherit judo?
100%, yes.
Oh, let me show you something.
My wife, Dani.
She's pretty.
Can I take a picture of us?
To show my family.
Do you know Scissors,
Paper, Rock?
Yes.
-Ready?
-Yes.
Scissors,
paper, rock.
Hey.
So, how was your walk
with your bio dad?
He showed me pictures
of his wife and his judo medals.
He's awesome.
He's a judo champion.
This operation isn't going
to improve my eyes completely,
is it?
It could help you see
a bit clearer.
And it's the best the doctors
can do.
I don't know which is scarier.
Going blind or the operation.
I know.
But if there's a chance
it can help you
even just a little bit,
your mum and I think
it's worth a try.
And if it doesn't work?
Well, we would've
at least tried, right?
You know, you'll always be
my special girl.
Promise?
Promise.
I'm just going to flush
your cannula.
You're going to feel
a slight pressure.
It'll be quick.
Could you count to 20 for us,
Issy?
...two, three...
...four...
five...
Dr Nelson,
phone call on line three.
Do you believe in fate?
No.
Not particularly.
You don't believe
that we were destined?
Is that what you believe?
I believe we're meant
for each other.
Then I can go along with that.
Isabella's out of surgery.
Everything went smoothly.
We'll give it a few days.
See how things go.
She's got the best chance
we can give her.
And when will we know
when the...
when her condition
is stabilised?
It varies. Um, with stem cell
treatment,
the results can take
a few weeks.
Might take longer.
OK.
-Can we see her?
-Oh, of course. Yeah.
Um, she's in recovery.
She's still asleep, but you can
go and sit with her.
Yeah.
Come this way.
And Nico's OK?
Yeah, he's good.
She's pretty special, isn't she?
I know.
She's brave, inquisitive...
And funny...
and smart.
At least some of that's
because of us, you know?
You have both done a good job.
So far anyway.
Well, let's not mess it up now,
eh?
Deal?
Deal.
Oh...
How are your eyes, darling?
Bit sore, but OK.
It's still fuzzy round
the edges though.
Yes, that's not going
to go away,
but hopefully, it won't get
any worse.
How's Mr Nico?
Is he alright?
Let me go check.
Hey, Nico.
How you doing?
It hurts a little bit,
but it's OK.
How is Issy?
Come and see for yourself.
Hey, look who's here.
Hi, Issy.
How are you? How do you feel?
I'm alright.
Thank you so much.
My pleasure.
Now, I have to get ready
to fly home.
But I'll be back soon.
Can I give her a hug?
-Oh, of course, Nico.
-Sure.
Yeah.
See you soon?
I hope so.
Nico.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Now, start.
Remember, left, right.
Left, right.
One, two.
Well, yeah!
Try to find the moment.
One more time.
Watch your posture
and do it stronger.
One... Yes.
Left, right. Left, right.
Yes. Well done.
Oh, great! Yeah.
Papi Nico, next time,
you must bring Dani.
I want to show her my skills.
For sure.
She would love to come.
Maybe you can teach Dad.
Of course, why not? Yeah.
That would be amazing.
So, I can keep up with you, Iss.
Hey, Mum!
- Issy, don't run! Issy!
- Mum!
I learned a new trick today.
I can show you.