On January 15th, 2015, a few weeks after completing his memoir, the writer and neurologist Oliver Sacks learned that the rare form of cancer for which he had been treated seven years earlier had returned, and that he had only a few months to live. One month later, he sat down with the producers for a series of marathon filmed interviews. He spoke with astonishing candor, and with unflinching honesty – a profoundly gifted 81-year-old man facing death with remarkable courage and vitality who was still vigorous while facing the end. He was determined to come to grips with what his life has meant and what it means to be, as he put it, “a sentient being on this beautiful planet.”
Drawing on these riveting and profoundly moving twilight reflections, OLIVER SACKS: HIS OWN LIFE explores the extraordinary life and work of the renowned neurologist, clinician and writer.
Join us after the film for a conversation with Niki Russ Federman, fourth generation owner of Russ & Daughters. What’s the connection between Oliver Sacks and Russ & Daughters? Throw in a little schmaltz herring and you’ll find out!
MEET NIKI RUSS FEDERMAN
Niki is the fourth-generation owner of Russ & Daughters, the home of bagels and lox since 1914. Since taking over her family’s 106 year-old food legacy, Niki and her cousin Josh Russ, have expanded the business beyond Russ & Daughters’ original appetizing store on New York’s Lower East Side. Together they launched and oversee Russ & Daughters Cafe, Russ & Daughters at the Jewish Museum and Russ & Daughters Brooklyn, which includes their jewish bakery and nationwide shipping facility. Niki is frequently featured in the media, including “The Sturgeon Queens,” an award-winning documentary about the Russ family and Russ & Daughters.
Is your mouth watering? Check out Russ & Daughters selection of deli delectables that can be shipped directly to your home: russanddaughters.com.
