A new short film highlights the story of a US Army veteran who uses the practice of beekeeping to cope with his PTSD.
“Eric and the Bees” is a new Zendesk original short film featuring Eric Grandon, a US Army veteran and beekeeper at Sugar Bottom Farm. In the documentary, Grandon talks openly about his difficult struggle with PTSD that arose after 20 years of serving in the army.
According to the National Center for PTSD, 11-30% of veterans experience PTSD, depending on their area of service. Additionally, veterans are 50% more likely to commit suicide than other populations, as reported by Stop Soldier Suicide.
Grandon started Sugar Bottom Farm back in 2014 in Ovapa, West Virginia. According to their website, he initially started his farm processing molasses as part of the Veterans and Warrior to Agriculture program in West Virginia.
Eventually, he branched out and got a few beehives. Through the program, he became a certified beekeeper instructor and switched his focus solely to beekeeping. According to Zendesk, “Beekeeping is a lifesaving form of therapy for Eric Grandon.”
Now that Gordon’s found something that helps him cope with his PTSD, he hopes that by sharing his story with other veterans he can make a difference in someone’s life.
Watch the inspirational documentary below:
What do you think of Gordon’s story? Let us know!