Elmira, NY – Though he is known and loved by his patients already, Abdel Mallouk, MD a family medicine physician at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, New York is about to become even more renowned. Dr. Mallouk appears in and is the executive producer of “The Clay Wife”, a short yet beautiful reflection on how people stay with us even after they die.
In this brief, yet poignant film, we are introduced to John and Micah, a father and son who are trying to cope with the loss of Olivia, their wife and mother respectively. Through flashbacks, after a local shop keeper touches John, we see Dr. Mallouk coaching Olivia at Micah’s birth. Olivia eventually succeeds at birthing a healthy baby boy, but John’s elation is temporary. Shortly after the birth, Dr. Mallouk informs John that despite their best efforts Olivia has died.
Though originally John and Micah happen into the shop in search of a gift for grandma, the greatest gift is given to them. The mysterious shop owner gives the boy a special block of clay telling him that whatever he makes out of it will come alive for 24 hours. Through this wonderful gift both John and Micah are able to heal and find closure.
Set in beautiful Upstate New York, this reflection on life after death will provide comfort and provoke thought of the loved ones we have and the ones we have lost. Dr. Mallouk gives a true to life performance as his empathy and skill shine through.
