A documentary about local humanitarian Dr. Bob Cutler will have its first public screening this week.

In "Through Human Eyes", filmmaker Chelsea McCormack chronicles a clinical trip Dr. Cutler and his associates took to the Caribbean nation of Haiti in November 2009.

"We pretty much spent two weeks documenting the experience of Bob and his team as they went through the process of this clinical trip," said McCormack.

Chelsea, 28, grew up in Cranbrook, the daughter of Patty and Mike McCormack. She studied filmmaking at The Art Institute in Vancouver and now works as a set decorator.

But she has long held a passion for social justice, and that passion was kindled when she heard of the work of her lifelong family doctor.

"It's been really special to create a relationship with Bob as an adult on a level that has nothing to do with our past background, just because our hearts and minds have connected into something that we're both very passionate about. That means the world to me," said McCormack.

Dr. Bob Cutler has been a physician at Cranbrook's F.W. Green Medical Centre for more than a decade. He has made more than a dozen humanitarian trips to Haiti, where he conducts medical clinics for impoverished Haitians. Last month, he was awarded the Justice Institute of B.C.'s Heroes and Rescue Award for his efforts.

McCormack said Dr. Cutler will attend the premiere on Wednesday.

"I'm very nervous about Bob seeing it," said McCormack.

She was deeply impacted by the team's efforts in Haiti.

"All in all, I was really blown away with the work and commitment Dr. Cutler and his team put forward and continue to put forward for these people. I think it's remarkable what he has been able to do. It's been a real pleasure to showcase that."

However, McCormack is quick to point out that her aim is to highlight the struggles in Haiti.

"Most people if you bring up Haiti know of the floods, the food rioting, and the devastating earthquake that happened last year. For the most part, people don't understand how Haiti got there and what Haiti needs to be able to pull itself away from that," said McCormack.

The film was just completed last week, McCormack said. She works 60 hours a week and has been producing the film in her spare time and with her own money.

Now complete, Through Human Eyes has been sent to several Canadian film festivals, including Hot Docs in Toronto, the World Community Film Festival in Vancouver, and the Fernie Mountain Film Festival.

"If we can get it out onto the festival circuit and with any luck get it broadcast in some 'official' capacity, that gives me the right the next time around to apply for all sorts of funding," said McCormack.

And there is certain to be a next time. McCormack is about to set off on a 10-month trip to India and Nepal, and no doubt she'll be inspired to return to production.

Through Human Eyes will screen on Wednesday, January 19th at 7:30 p.m. at Amy Woodland School in Cranbrook. All are welcome to attend.