Kim Kaplan Productions

You're Invited! Horses, Hope & Healing -

You're Invited! Join us for Horses, Hope & Healing, shining a spotlight on documentary filmmakers who are making a difference!

Thank you California Chiropractic Association for having us!

Successful work trip at the Happiest Place on Earth! #disneyland #workhardplayhard

Sometimes we have to embrace the diagnosis of mental illness to truly appreciate it's effect on ourselves and others.. and when we do, we can begin to understand ourselves better and allow healing to lead the way.

Today, we celebrate the birthday of Gordon C. Pool, grandfather of ' very own Kim Kaplan.

Not only did Kim's grandfather foster her love for horses, he also unexpectedly guided her as she learned about bipolar disorder, a mental illness they both shared. In an article entitled, Riding the Day Away, Kim shared:

"I was hopeful that someday he would lead me in the direction of understanding this mental illness that we shared. Little did I know that he would direct me in a completely different way, one I had no understanding of at the time. I soon discovered that there were many benefits that came with a grandfather who is bipolar...I admired my grandfather's charm and wit. He had a way with words, and made friends as quickly as he turned them into enemies. It was a gift, as well as a curse and I can see how being bipolar can create a long list of enemies, or more so, a short list of friends. But I learned to appreciate his frankness, even when it got ugly. Maybe it just reminded me of my own shortcomings. Perhaps my appreciation was really empathy."

While they never directly spoke about their shared mental illness experiences, there was always an understanding and connection between the two of them that could never be matched. It was this relationship that helped Kim navigate through her life and career, leading to the founding of Wild Filly Films with Sally Forcier. A perfect combination of her love of horses and passion for breaking the stigma of mental health through storytelling.

We encourage you to read Kim's full article here: https://31to50.blogspot.com/2012/05/day-21-riding-day-away.html

Learn more about bipolar disorder, and explore the benefits of equine therapy.