SJC Shows 'King Gimp'

By Betsy Curry
The Disability Services Office and the Social Justice Committee are offering a showing of the Academy Award-winning film “King Gimp,” in recognition of National Disability Month.

The film, “King Gimp,” records a 13-year period in the life of Dan Keplinger, a talented artist who was born with cerebral palsy. The film follows Keplinger’s life from his years in special education through his college graduation. During Dan’s struggle to conquer the overwhelming odds, he discovered his artistic abilities, which gave him the opportunity to express his inner being.

Cerebral palsy is a result of an injury to the brain of a fetus or newborn child. There is no cure for the disease, yet it is not progressive. Cerebral palsy may cause many types of posture and movement problems. It may also cause problems with vision, hearing, speech, language and learning. There is no way of knowing what functional differences can be expected in each individual.

William A. Whiteford and Susan Hannah Hadary are the brilliant filmmakers behind “King Gimp.” The duo is known for celebrating the human spirit through their films. Whiteford and Hadary received an Academy Award in the category of Documentary Short Subject for “King Gimp,” which debuted June 5 on HBO.

The campus community is invited to attend the film presentation Thursday, Oct 27, 9-10 a.m. in Rooms 2536-2538. If you have any questions, please contact Pam Clevenger 424-8378 or Cathy Mutz 424-8320, Room 1211. Classes are welcome to come with advanced notice. Refreshments will be served. RSVP would be greatly appreciated.

More information about Dan Keplinger and the film is available at www.hbo.com/kinggimp/king.