Appalachian Family interview-Amanda, Crystal and Robin
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- Опубликовано: 2 май 2024
- Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Amanda, Crystal and Robin, an Appalachian family in McCreary County, Kentucky.
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In this powerful and emotional interview, Amanda, Crystal, and Robin share their stories of survival and resilience in McCreary County, Eastern Kentucky. From childhood tragedies, including a devastating train accident, to enduring abuse and battling addiction, these women reveal the harsh realities of their lives. Crystal, Amanda's niece, adds her perspective as a young mother facing her own challenges. Despite the adversity, they find strength in each other and strive to provide a better future for their children. This raw and honest conversation sheds light on the impact of generational trauma and the fight for a better life. 
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I think sometimes we don't know how lucky we are.
Blessed is what I'd call it
You are so right!!
I see it online all the time. People complaining about everything.
"i hope we all make it".
I try and tell my 14 year old daughter this all the time
The little girl offering to pat the coughers back. And the ladys immediate reaction was to smile and hug the little girl❤❤ I might not understand what their life is like. But I understand love.
Awwww...@Michelle🥺❤
Poor child
@michellethayer7137 you made me cry, but a good cry because it seems like that's what the world really needs at this point, MORE LOVE!🩷🩷
I noticed that too... unfortunately often times little ones follow directly in their guardians footsteps! But that's the beauty of it Miss Kinzy if you read any of these by chance...you can do and be anything you want! ✌️
Me too 💓
Appalachian lady here & I'm proud of where I'm from and im still here. I love my people. We may be poor than ever but WE are forever rich with what we do have. ❤❤❤
You are the descendant of brave scotch/Irish who said no to slavery and escaped into the Appalachian mountains to live off the land. My people, who were also Irish, were stuck in NY to work factories.
You are precious!! I always say materials things don't matter it's the love in people's hearts and family that make someone rich!!! God Bless You!🙌🏻❤️
These ladies might have a IQ of 12 if you combine them! 😂
cope.
Well said AshleyMae! 💕💕💕 @Jeanette - Irish here too! ☘️
As an OT practitioner, that coughing lady is suffering from more than a cold.
That is pneumonia with COPD.
My husband had COPD for 8 years until he passed away of Covid and he never did cough! We always wondered why?
Right, I was thinking the same thing. She sounds like she has serious emphysema, and or COPD. She needs to see a doctor, they may be able to help her. She needs to stop smoking. Hope the child stays in school. 🙂🌄🙏
She needs to go to the hospital.
@@MissX33I do agree you can't diagnose anyone with a cough with something wo listening to lungs and a X-ray. Period. But a high fever and pneumonia nope. In 2020 at 35 yrs old I got sick on Saturday feeling run down, but no cough no fever no aches just felt yucky tired. I don't remember Sunday at all, Monday morning my partner who'd been sick for over a week, bad, who never misses work, had called in. He found me in my recliner, not reclining , just my head thrown back, face gray, eyes sunken in and couldn't see me breathing. I would come 2 when harassed and I'd go in and out, ems was called. my O2 was only 30, ems rushed me 2er, then they rushed me to the trauma hospital an hr away , I was in ICU 18days first 8days I was in a coma on life support . i had MSSA pneumonia like streptococcus pneumonia like there's no worse pneumonia you can get , I aspirated staph into my lungs and 2 blood clots . Up until the 5th day in a coma my 6 doctors, I had, told my family they didn't think I'd make it . Their words were we don't think she'll pull through but we will do everything we can . I never ran one fever and I never had a cough whatsoever. So pneumonia doesn't always have fevers. I had the type most don't survive and never did, also i had pneumonia 4years in a row every year in February I had pneumonia it was weird the 4time was this adventure I storytimed you with! lol it was Feb 2020 and I never ran a fever with any of them . But I had painful coughing with all but last time. Sorry 4 chapter book and shitty grammar I rushed.
Kinzie, keep those grades up, get a scholarship to college, get fuuuuuck outta there, and never, ever, put a cigarette in your mouth. Ever. I’m an ex smoker and it is the dumbest shit ever.
Great advice!! I smoked for 20 years and it was so hard to quit, but I did in 2016. Best decision I ever made. I could smell the cigarette smoke through the TV screen watching this.
This people should not be allowed to raise a child, can you imagine what will happen psychologically to the little girl.
Agreed 👍 nicotine is an evil task master.
@@theresekirkpatrick3337not exactly 😂
@@gottagrind2shine607 idk why people hate the chemical not the delivery method, nicotine NOT from cigs is great shit
I grew up in a dysfunctional household in the projects. To a teen mom who married 4 times by the time i was 6 years old. I joined the army to gtfo. Never looked back. The military helped me learn how to be successful and paid for schooling.
Good for u
This is the most underrated comment on here. This, this, this, THIS. Military becomes your family too.
Thank you for your service. My family wasnt dysfunctional but we didn’t have money so the military helped me so much I am thankful for the opportunity & experience
so glad you made it out and found your purpose, helping others is how to keep going
Congratulations, you were born into a terrible situation & had the strength to get out... legally ❤️
When she said, "I tell ya hon, we had a rough life" I thought, that's an understatement. I felt that in my soul.
She made her life difficult. I know I'm her . She does drugs . Can't yoou tell a drugy
These ladies are about 20 min from my home born and raised here and damn proud of it!! PEOPLE LIKE US MIGHT NOT HAVE MUCH BUT WHAT WE DO HAVE WE ARE BEYOND THANKFUL FOR!!! WE CHERISH EVERY LITTLE MOMENT IN LIFE & DONT TAKE ANYTHING FOR GRANTED!! WE MAY NOT HAVE THE LUXURIES IN THE WORLD LIKE OTHERS BUT WE ARE DOING GREAT WITHOUT IT WE CANT TAKE ALL THAT WITH US WHEN WE ARE CALLED HOME SO WHY HAVE IT WE DONT MISS WHAT WE HAVE NEVER HAD!!! WE ARE CONTENT JUST PEACEFUL COUNTRY LOVIN NATURE LOVIN PEOPLE ME MYSELF AS LONG AS I HAVE MY FAMILY, MY WATER RATHER IT BE RAIN WATER OR CREEK WATER TO BATHE MYSELF EVERYDAY & FOOD FOR ENERGY & SOME BOOKS OF WISDOM & KNOWLEDGE HEY IM ALL GOOD TO GO YES & SOME TRANSPORTATION TO SUPPORT YOUR SELF BUT IM FINE WITHOUT THAT I MEAN WHAT ELSE DO I NEED IN LIFE THAT IS SO IMPORTANT THAT I CANT LIVE WITH OUT?? MUCH LOVE TO ALL OUT THERE LOVE ONE ANOTHER BE KIND PUT A SMILE ON SOMEONES FACE TODAY U COULD JUST BE SAVING A PERSONS LIFE!!!!
The rich aren't so rich as you in many ways. When you're kind and throw that out into the world--that's everything.
You ppl in Kentucky need to start voting out those politicians who have done nothing to help your lives while they're living high on the hog and only help the special interests groups.
I'm from a little town in Kentucky that didn't have 300 people in it and we burned wood and coal for heat and a fan in the window for air conditioning and we ate what we grew and had a hard dug well that we would drop a bucket down in and we hunted and fish but don't get me wrong my dad did work at a sawmill and when I was old enough I started working at the same sawmill and logging.we were dirt poor and I wouldn't change any of it
❤️🙏❤️
For real. My deep rooted Southern family had NOTHING in Western NC…late 10 kids from early 1900’s-1930’s it was rough for them. Yet they had it all in family and community 💜.
Accidents, beatings, stabbings, shootings, addictions, brain damage…
Then the little girl spits out the word “paleontologist” with such certainty and clarity. 🤯
IF that girl becomes a paleontologist I will eat my hat. Give me a break. Try just finishing highschool, not getting pregnant, getting out of that trailor, and meeting some intelligent humans and that will be progress.
SO NEW VICTIMS TO MAKE MONEY OFF OF====SWU IS A SLEEZE-BALL
I hope she becomes one! I also hope she never picks up a cigarette
@@JJones-zg7yzarticulate.
Not asthma inhalers sitting right next to the cigarettes 😮😢😅 Lord help them...
I am 73 and I am continually appalled at the depths of misery and pain that is visited upon the women of this world.
It's sad really
same, at 58
I guess the men don't matter.
@@barrycrane5908I guess we don’t lmao 🤣 that’s why our deletion rates are much higher, No one believe we matter a they believe we should be strong to endure everything.
@@drelocs2878This interview is about these women, I'm pretty sure, these are women. Although you can never tell these days. 💀That does not discredit the crap men deal with, including sexual assault and domestic violence against them.
I can hear the pain in Crystals voice. The abuse she suffered from her ex and being so scared you have to pack up and move every time he found her. So sad and heartbreaking. These women have had a hard life. I pray that little girl can achieve her goals in life! And I pray they all can find healing from all the trauma they have experienced.
All I hear is coughing
I have a brand new wheelchair that my husband who has passed away used one time. It was a twenty-five k wheelchair. I would donate. God Bless these woman.
You wouldn't say that if you knew the whole story.
@@maryvernon6411not true, you can still be kind to people who have done wrong
@Conway1848 I am kind to Robin but I haven't seen her in over 15yrs.. the way she defamed my brother and her Dad I don't care if I ever see her again, she is a drunk and a drug user.
Now this would make a great non-smoking commercial
I was thinking the same 👍
Oh Amanda, you are a professional cougher.
I literally almost threw up…🤢
Facts I wouldn’t smoke if I saw this 😂😂😂
😂😂yeess
“You have to forgive everyone for your own benefit “ a very valuable statement .
💯!!
I'm not there yet
I'm not there yet
@@ruth_southernstar most people will never get there. Start with positive thoughts. They will lead you to positive actions. Positive energy is being made and forgiveness is a result of all. May Jesus and Peace be with you. Amen 🙏🏼
@@rogieru8796 Thank you
I ❤ how proud the Mom is of the little daughter.
There is true motherly love there.
Crystal has such a beautiful positive outlook...you can tell she is genuinely a loving and caring person...how she speaks about forgiveness is inspiring 🙏
Don't be fooled by the lie. They are druggies and alcoholics. I am Robin step mother and everything they said was a lie except the accident.but her dad wasn't in the accident. Robin's older sister Rhonda and her grandmother was killed the gentleman in the car survived but lost his legs Robin was in hospital for 3 months check the Dayton newspaper the wreck happened on April 23 1972 check the facts.
Mark: "Amanda so you avoided all this tragety"
Amanda: Yes, I was only stabbed 16 times
Yeah I caught that like wth 👀
Yep
100% there’s so much more going on here.
Sweet Jesus.
Hmmm.. I'm from Detroit, saying hmmm...
Did anyone not get anything out of this but me? Too many comments on smoking. Yes smoking is bad, but this lady is getting over being sick. These people are poor just like me. I live in a trailer and never been happier. I ditched my abuser nine years ago. Single and don’t mingle. I learned a lot about these women’s life in less than thirty minutes. I don’t need to recap if you were paying attention. Please be kind. I see three women that hated where they came from and still dreaming to do better with their lives. And no one wants nor needs a man. The little girl is smart and intelligent and respectful. There’s hope for her future. Mom is going to school online to become a nurse. I was impressed. I hope to hear more from these ladies.
Poor yet can afford to smoke. 🙄
Sorry but that is not a cough from being sick with a cold. She needs to get a PET scan. Very serious issue with her lungs
It’s easy to judge. We usually do so when we don’t understand. I would never condone harmful lifestyles, but some people are born with extreme limitations.
Yes..well said. Beautiful.
Nobody wants or needs a bad man, but a good man would be a blessing.
I listen to these while I'm working. When I heard "He shot my mom" my head snapped up so fast. Poor mom.
I have stage 4 colorectal cancer and have been through some major surgeries and another upcoming soon but I must say that I feel more compassion for these women than I do myself. I have free healthcare, disability and insurance monies and the best care yet these women are suffering. Breaks my heart and I pray that God blesses them and brings more comfort and strength in their fight for survival. I hope that little girl gets to be exactly what she wants to be and I'm happy to see that she has a Momma that tells her that she can do whatever she wants to do!
You have a wonderful attitude. May you be well.
I hope your health improves. God bless.
I don’t know you, or even your name. But I’m going to pray for you, for complete healing and miracles in mind, body, soul and spirit, in Jesus Christ name. You have a miracle coming, don’t give up, no doubt and keep faith. God bless you, Jesus loves you. Remember faith as small as a mustard seed will move a mountain.
I met this lady is SC through a friend. She invited me into her trailer and we talked for hours. She kept telling me how she wanted more out of life. She tried to go to college and didn't finish. No one is less than because of their socio-economic level.She showed so much hospitality.
I agree! The only thing I see wrong here is they shouldn't smoke around that little girl. Beyond that, I hope she achieves great things and continues to be a blessing to her family!
What part of SC?
You're 100% right. No one is less (or more for that matter) because of their economic status. I just wish with all my heart that people in the quote-quote "lower" status wouldn't think less of themselves.💔
Amen
All ppl aren't created equal
Never judge others until you’ve walked in their shoes.
There are some things you can do to help yourself such as spending a lot of money on smokes.
This stuff tugs on my heart strings.
I judge you
@@karenaguilar8116 Didn't you hear them say they roll their own? About 40 cents a pack.
🙏🏽You are right. But if these were black people they would be DRUG!!!! I tell you. We’ve come so far but oh so NOT!!
Crystal sounds like you are trying hard to make positive changes for yourself and your daughter’s future. More power to you!
Bless their hearts, you can clearly see Mckenzie's mum what's a better life for her, the love and empathy is evident between them all. ❤
Life can feel so heavy. These ladies have lived a 1000 sad old country songs. On a lighter note, we used to bring out the roll of tp when we were sick as kids. Mark, you are showing us the realities of this world with kindness and compassion. Thank you for giving them a voice.
'a 1000 sad old country songs' - poetry
Yes mark thank you for not making them feel belittled or made fun of . Your truly a man of integrity and compassion .
I still being out the roll....lol
It’s heartwarming to hear people revealing their authentic selves instead of hiding behind the whitewashed phony masks that most of us “better off” people wear our entire lives.
Thanks Amanda, Crystal, Robin, and precious McKenzie for inspiring me to keep things simple and real in this crazy complicated world.
Crystal was spot on when she spoke about tryin to get a job, with minimal pay due to lack of education or from not having a trade then having her foodstamps & SSI cut or completely taken away. They're in a trap whereas the poor are less likely to find a way out. Hated to hear that Kenzie dislikes school but sure hope the ladies encourage her to stick it out to the end. It also sounds like Amanda would benefit from a breathing treatment. Best of luck ladies, always do the best you can❤
Sounds like she is too smart and possibly bored at school
My grandparents left this county in the 1940's so their children and grandchildren could have a better life. I'm proud of my roots, they pushed education and hard work. The women in my family are the strongest I've ever seen. Kentucky women have to be. These women are taking care of each other, this is the way we do it Applaccians will take care of their family with their last dollar if you take anything from this interview take that.
Yes we do!
I've spent 90% of my life in the midst of folk just like these ladies. I've walked hollars and climbed mountains. Some in E. Kentucky, some closer to Lexington. Country people and hill people are some of the most generous, honest, and caring people you'll ever meet. Being poor is just life for a great number of people. Don't feel sorry these ladies. Yes they would appreciate having more scratch to work with, but even if they had plenty of money they would prolly move a little closer to town, and buy some things they've always wanted, but over all they, like myself don't need alot of material possessions to be happy. Most country people don't know they're poor until they get around people that make fun of their clothes, shoes (sometimes the lack thereof) or where they live. Good country people are born with a pep in their step and smiles on their faces. Most have a close realationship with Christ. When it comes to having "things" most of these folks'll tell ya, you can't miss something you've never had. As far as the smoking goes, nearly all my people smoke. Their parents did, and their parents did. Chewing tobacco too. When you work and live around berly all your life, and everyone you know smokes, chances are you're gonna pick it up also. Hang in there ladies. Keep pushing forward. Y'all look after one another. Ain't nobody else gonna.
One last thing. Drugs have devoured sooo many families in E. Kentucky. It's a hard scrabble life out there. These good people need REAL assistance.! Sorry for the rambling. I'm done now.
That was well said. Thank you
Love to you and yours always.
I enjoyed your rambling, very much
Tht is the best raamble i haave read in a very long time on here, thank you
Ramble anytime! I'll listen!! I'm in E Kentucky now and enjoy hearing this! Thank you!
Crystal is a true warrior. The three of them are. The humanity emanating from these three women is palpable. Their ordeals didn't turn them into bitter old ladies, quite the contrary.
Beautifully said
Love your take on this! 😊
Bless these ladies hearts. It’s sad but there are so many people, more than you could ever imagine that have and had hard lives like these.
After watching these ppl and how their lives have been it amazes me how much ppl complain about nothing. U just don’t realize how good u have it.
Bless that little girl - looking to help her aunt while she’s coughing. At least they have each other x
same here!!!....we got each other!
❤amen
Each other? I grew up in a home just like this. That little girl has a better chance if she was left at a train station.
It was so sweet how she gave her a hug and was patting her in the back when she kept coughing.
A NURSE??
Mitch McConnell should be so proud of his hard work, he’s done nothing for the people of his state.
I'm sorry to hear that. You are great, hard working people, and you deserve the best x
SO NEW VICTIMS TO MAKE MONEY OFF OF====SWU IS A SLEEZE-BALL
If anything, Bitch McConnell made it worse
Agree. A very dishonourable man.
Sad ,and these people keep voting for these crazy Republicans 😢😢
Mark, I loved the way you carried that sponsorship out for the photo product. I'd buy it for sure.❤ And Thank you for humanistically and compassionately framing another family in America worthy of being heard.❤
That's great Crystal is a CNA! Where I am from they can get paid anywhere from $19-$25 an hour or more to start.
Don’t get paid that much in KY
Jesus! These women give a new definition to the word surviving. I hope they find some joy in their lives. ❤️
These ladies have such good skin. Especially to have be smoking for years. And I how highly the mothers spoke of their daughters.
LADY I HOPE YOU WAKE UP YOU ARE DRAWN INTO THIS SITUATION SO MARK CAN MAKE GO FUND ME MONEY YOU STUPID HUMAN BEINGS OUT THERE
u call this surviving?
@@bcx1138 YOU CALL IT SPREADING YOUR LEGS TO GET WHAT YOU WANT WHETHER IT IS DOPE OR MONEY THESE ARE SCUMAGS PEOPLE AND YOU REALLY SHOULD WAKE UP YOU BRAIN DEAD HAG
This is bull it's all lies
Cycle of poverty and trauma. Smoking (children breathing it in), Mountain Dew, lack of education, substance use, foster care, and other constant calamities. Hoping Kinzie is able to break from the cycle.
And meth. Can't leave that out. When they stopped the mining, people lost good paying jobs. Now they just collect government checks and stay high.
SHE WILL NOT SHE WILL BE PREGNANT BEFORE SHE IS 16
... and yet things could be much worse than drinking a mountain dew and being around smoke, believe it or not
Mt Dew contributes to cardiac heart issues in all socio-economic levels. Definitely the devil in soda bottle.
Man....I have 2 masters degrees and I love mountain dew...lol. I didn't realize it was considered white trash until I was like 25 and worked at Applebee's. Haha
Mark thank you for showing us the true resilience of this family. They have endured so much, things that many of us can’t imagine. God bless them.
When you're feeling empty and depressed and upset about what you don't have just think of what you do have and be grateful!!!!!
Thank you, Mark, for featuring this family. I appreciate their honesty and I hope their lives improve for them as well.
Please, God wrap your arms around this beautiful Kentucky women. And thank you so much Mark for showing sides of the world that most people would never see…
You would have done better by asking your god to put the trains breaks on earlier or maybe he could have stopped her sons car from rolling over and killing him, or maybe your god could have sunk sir Walter Rayleighs boat.
@@nomadsteve5297 You're an Atheist?? Life isn't easy, Syevie.
The opportune time for meaningful "arm wrapping" has come and gone. I guess Magic Sky Friend was busy somewhere else, probably punishing people for not sufficiently kissing up, I mean praising, His ever-caring and merciful self...
Will said
Thank you, amen
Poverty breeds depression and anxiety, which breeds self- medicating with cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, abusive relationships. When taught love equals abuse, it carries over through adulthood.
Their main issue isn’t poverty. It’s a lack of intelligence. They either have brain damage or extremely low IQs.
Yes completely agree ❤
Mark, bless you for telling these folks’ stories. You have an incredibly big heart.
The young girl getting straight A's is amazing. Wants to be a paleontologist.
If there are any college recruiters looking at this video please giver her a shot when it comes her time.
I hope she at least graduates and gets a good paying job.
And to the nice lady Amanda with a continuous cough...please get a dedicated chest CT scan ASAP.
If there is anyway that the interviewer could help with her paying for CT scan that would be a blessing to her and may save her life.
The daughter Crystal got her GED and is pursuing nursing. AWESOME!
God bless you
I’m sorry I get what you’re saying and I hope her life is 1000 times better than what she’s living right now but I don’t believe for a second she’s a straight A student .. she’s 11 years old in the 4th grade which means she’s gotten held back atleast twice.. I don’t blame her , I blame her environment and it’s heartbreaking and I’m surprised if they haven’t already that CPS isn’t involved.. all 3 of them are smoking 🚬 right next to her ..
@@Hi.Im.Lovelyor maybe they didn’t send her to school on time…
That's ain't no cold, it's Emphysema. I had two grandparents die from that, and my dad was dying from it till the lung cancer kicked in and finished him off. I'm well familiar with the sound of that cough and the digusting grey flem she's hacking up.
@@Hi.Im.LovelyCPS because they’re smoking in front of her? You must live a sheltered life
That little girl looks so sweet.I love the way she was trying to help her aunt when she was coughing.❤️
That child looks stoned.
Who lets an 11 year old drink Mt Dew?
💚💚💚
She looks as messed up as the rest-very sad
These ladies are so sweet and kind. I think it’s awesome how they stick together, you can tell they’re very close. May God bless them and protect all of them🙏🏻💕🩷
This story is just so heartbreaking, the things these ladies have been through in their lives. It just blows my mind the things ppl could get away with back in the day doing to their kids . My heart goes out to u ladies. God plz watch over them all and bless the ladies.
What I love about these gals is the love and support for each other. ❤❤❤❤
Love of their family.
THEY REALLY KNOW HOW TO CON YOU LESS INTELLIGENT PEOPLE
@@ROZIEROSE-bo3fjTake your ignorance elsewhere.
@@lindamangoldbooth7789 THE ONLY IGNORANT ONE IN THE ROOM IS A NAIVE MOORON LIKE YOURSELF
My grandpa had a cough like that. He'd been a smoker since he was 9 years old. That type of cough caused an artery to burst, blood was everywhere and he died later that night at the hospital 😢. I pray she gets the help she needs. Bless this family
She's literally dying slowly...please help her with that cough....
My grandfather passed away in 1995 at 63 who was a smoker probably about the age of your grandfather when he started smoking he smoked three packs of Benson and hedges a day I don't even think they make those anymore but anyway he died the doctor's back then called it black lung which I think today we call it copd, emphysema sorry about your grandfather
I'm sorry for your grandpa.
@@londarayray6503 I agree please help her she needs it fast
I've been smoking since I was 9. I'm 51 now. I've only made 3 attemps to quit in all these years. First 2 times about 25-30 years ago, I was only able to stop for 2 weeks until giving up. And I used chewing tobacco for the 2 weeks I wasn't smoking. But this last attempt about 2 years ago. I was able to make it for a month and 3 days before giving up. But I did it with the patch and nicotine gum instead of chew that time. But anyhow your comment about your grand dad struck a nerve with me. And I'm gonna try with gum and patch again. I'm going try to make it 2 months this time. Thanks for sharing and I'm sorry for your loss.
As someone who is recovering from a double lung transplant her cough was so 💔. She is sitting there coughing up a lung and he never stopped the interview for a moment to let her get herself together🥺. I pray her and the family well they have been through enough.
she even excused herself to get cough syrup but he told her to come sit back down. He doesn't care about these people, he just wants the view$
@@hoppas77 I really found that unfeeling also
That was so beautiful 🦋 Thank you so much! We all need to share our stories to find understanding love and compassion ❤ what else is there?
I don't know how Mark could sit in that room with all that cigarette smoke. My mom was a chain smoker and I got asthma from it. She died from COPD. I've hated cigarettes my whole life.
Amanda sounds like my mom did. If she doesn't have COPD yet she will. It's a horrible disease.
Mackenzie is a sweetheart. She takes good care of her aunt. I hope and pray that she realizes young that her opportunities living in KY are as good as anywhere else. It's all about her attitude about herself. She's smart and has a good heart. She'll do well for herself in KY...or anywhere.
These ladies are survivors. They're doing the best they can with what they have. Stopping smoking would save them money.
Thanks Mark for this profile of these 4 ladies. You are so respectful and kind. You ask the hard questions but not to condemn. It gives them a chance to be transparent. Much appreciated.
This makes me think about how the life expectancy is so low in Appalachia. Amanda needs a doctor yesterday, but there might not be a doctor anywhere close, or they might not have insurance. Life can be cruel man.
There is Appalachian Regional Hospital and for trauma cases and things the regional hospital can't handle they airlift to Lexington KY to UK
If they are on SSI, they qualify for and likely have Medicaid. But they have a hard time getting to a medical facility. Hospitals are far away, doctors are far away. And in some states the government has turned down Medicaid expansion which has led to closures of hospitals and medical facilities. The Republicans, the party of life.
Doctors are crooks in Kentucky. They pass out 'scripts for pain meds, then the pills re sold, people are addicted, and so on, and so on. If a good doctor knows and does nothing, he or she is a guilty party and needs to straighten up and fly right.
@@jenniferloftus2363They have medical care in their county. No place for politics here.
@fiddycent6307
I agree, but it is a true statement
Oh my. I’m so glad I gave up my cigs in 1985!! I love how you interview people. So real.
I tell you what, some folks have NOBODY to love them. You can tell these women love each other, in spite of the literal hell they each have been through. I bet any of them would give you the shirt off their backs.
Sixteen stabs & he was jailed for ... 3 MONTHS ?!?!
My head is spinning.
My ex almost murdered me and did murder my daughter. 15 months out good behavior. Onto his next victim
OMG ANOTHER STUPID PERSON THIS VIDEO IS FILLED WITH THEM
I was in prison with a lady who stabbed her husband to death with a pair of scissors and she only got 2 years.
@@CookiesCritterCare I am so, so sorry for your tragedy. From a sister in Michigan
The Sheriff was probably his Uncle Daddy.
I can see there is a lot of Love in this family, and none of us are perfect, so thanks for interviewing this beautiful family that went through a ton of trauma and lived to talk about it.
Kentuckian here…These three women live 2-1/2 hours from me and our lives could not be more different. I’m praying for them.
So many thoughts and emotions were running through me as I watched. This was remarkable interview.
But it was all lies! Amanda and Robin are lovers not sisters. Robin is my Aunt. My mom’s sister.
I totally get going off the rails after the death of a child
Yup. Losing a baby has got to be the worst.
She needs a doctor , that sounds like pneumonia
Ist time seeing this family. Welcome. My 2nd husband from Kentucky.
Probably COPD.
yep. a simple cold can turn into pneumonia when you have smoked a long time
@@CBrown86 and even if you haven’t.
True also could be Bronchitis which you need an antibiotic for
Thank for letting the people of the Appalachian tell there story. Your doing a wonderful thing showing people the lives that need help in our country.
Thank you for the interview ♥️
Videos like this will humble you real quick.
I really hope Crystal and Kenzie can get out of Appalachia.
My husband is from Appalachia - he left at 21 for the Navy in 1996.
He only went back for his Dads funeral last year.
I’m from the middle class suburbs of Nashville, and he told me there’s no chance we’re moving to Appalachia. He tells me the culture isn’t good.
My heart goes out to these sweet ladies. I hope their lives get better.
I hope they get the money and courage to leave.
Apply for low income housing in the suburbs of a major city. (Not the hood) It’ll change their lives!
The culture is great if you're not scummy
No, it really won’t.
You know Appalachia is huge, right?
These women are tougher than any man I’ve ever met. True strong, outstanding women
Most women are
It's not about gender.....it's about the strength and conviction in the soul.
Totally
Then you haven't met very many men.
Wow ginger, seriously .........
This was an extremely provocative interview!
Amanda was quite intelligent.
Poor Crystal’s coughing ALMOST made me have to turn it off early though… I feel really badly for her. For all of them actually.
Robin was 100% when she said “We’ve had a hard life”.
Lots of abuse, death, neglect, murder and tragedy in these 3 ladies lives 😞
Makes me feel like an idiot for bitching abt my life now and then.
These women are resilient and loving towards each other.
Amanda wanting to become a nurse and is in online college now to accomplish that goal is inspiring indeed.
But she was also right about all the things they take away from you once you get a job. Giving you no incentive to better with your life except for strong willpower and sheer determination to get off the government’s dime.
And the little one, she’s a straight A student!!
That’s FANTASTIC 🎉
Good job to Amanda for continuing to raise such a bright daughter ❤
Perhaps because of that, she will have a brighter future than many of the other women in her life have had 🤞🏼
* I’d really like to see you talk to these 3 women further Mark 🥇
26 minutes was not enough time.
Thought provoking examination into the plight of humanity in America 🏆
I enjoyed this interview, i hope you do an update in the future
This is Appalachia! This is East Kentucky! No matter how much you crush us, we will rise up and light a cigarette! (But we seriously need to stop smoking)
God bless these women. This is a story of triumph! Kenzie will do wonderful things and continue to be a blessing on her family!
thank god i dont smoke anymore, i quit 14 years ago and havent lit up a cigarette since, i exercise, drink water, watch what i eat and keep myself active, not everyone in kentucky is dumb and stupid, some people were not able to graduate high school, hell imagine having to afford college? you cant do that with being poor. but it's random for everyone. kentucky gets a bad rap about everything, but the entire world has good and bad things in it.
Had to tap out that gurgle cough was turning my stomach 🤢
Praying for these ladies and especially the little girl ❤
If injuries incest or drinking doesn’t get the Appalachian community the smoking will
🤣🤣🤣@@arielhague-balfour1907
I live in southwest Virginia right on the VA/KY line and the amount of poverty is East Kentucky is astounding! It is sad.
This makes me realize how much we can take things for granted. My heart goes out to these people for being as strong as they have been through all thier struggles. ❤
Mark, I'm watching your program right now. The aura frames were just on. I started watching your programs with the Whittakers and have continued through many others. I want you to know i think you're wonderful.
These ladies exude kindness, even after all the tragedies in their lives. Wish the best for all of them.
I love my people. Given the chance to be ourselves, we are capable of so much more. In another time, these ladies would be outside the cabin in cotton dresses, happily raising children and a garden in the warm mountain sunshine. Gods bless Appalachia.
No one goes outside anymore . My Granny was born and raised there and they always worked outside in the gardens . Now people rarely go outside , they don’t even mow the lawns anymore. Just get food stamps and stay in doors .
This is the most emotional and sad interview I’ve seen from you Mark
This was the saddest thing I have seen in a very long time. Bless their hearts for plugging along. McKenzie didn’t seem to have autistic tendencies but we didn’t get to see her that much. I can understand why she is behind in school and glad her mother got her back. They are precious and their spirit should really be applauded.
They said she gets straight A's...
How is she behind in school? They said she gets straight A’s and has received several awards, in regards to her grades. Did you watch?
I hope Kenzie gets her wish to be a paleoentologist. She looks like a nice kid. Poverty is so hard and I hope her mum continues to support her in everything she does! She needs to try to go to school and keep getting those Awards. I bet nobody was expecting the sister to say she adopted a child as opposed to got her child adopted or taken into care. I think many people judge far too quickly. These are just ordinary people who had no chances and have had hard lives. The fact the little girl has big dreams says a lot about her mother. I wish all of them, health happiness and, it would be lovely, however unlikely, a bit of prosperity as they deserve it so much more than a lot of these armchair judges commenting on their lives❤
I grew up around smoke lots, my dad smoked 3 pcks a day Exporta. My brother's & I are still alive & doing great. This little girl is amazing. Love is the thing that makes us great & thrive. The saying is don't judge . These ladies would give the shirts off there backs for someone in need. Be very proud of yourself, love yourself & the people around you. God Bless these 3 ladies & that precious little girl. It was do nice to hear mom say she is so proud of her baby girl. May your son RIP. He is an angel watching over his mother sister grandmother & aunt ❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is the best comment on this video. Never have I read more judgmental comments. These are survivors. They could be doing a lot worse than this - like many people do - in front of a child.
Thank you. Well said!
Anyone else who almost cant breathe yourself when you hear someone else cough like that?
😂😂😂
Yes. I'm struggling for her.
Yes! I have asthma and that sends me.
omg yes!!! i had to fast forward so i could breathe.
😂
This reminds me of my Mom's side of the family. They had it tough. My Mom, like little McKenzie, was able to persevere through school, and was able to live a good life with my Dad. It takes such strength and determination to do it. But Mom made it look easy. McKenzie, you'll do great things with those three loving ladies to look over you.
I had a friend that used to cough just like Amanda. She ended up passing away and the autopsy showed that her erratic lifestyle finally caught up with her. Alcohol abuse and heavy smoking finally took her life.
How sad and tragic all of this. All these women have done is suffer. I think they all smoke because of pure stress and depression. I really do. Could be wrong but that's what I think some coping mechanism. Mark, this is really an interesting family with an interesting story to tell. Thank you.
I agree, they've had terrible lives for the most part.
I lived a similar life of childhood abuse and rape. I knew exactly what I wanted in life and that was not live the hell I lived as a small child. As soon as I turned 18 I joined the military and never returned home. 🏠 I’ll keep Makenzie in my prayers that she too is able to make a good life for herself.
God bless this family.
And God bless you too!
I came from a home of child abuse also. No rape though. So sad for your pain. I went in the Navy after high school. I knew that was the only way to get a education, get away from home and have a roof over my head and Travel. Never regretted it. As you, I never went back "home" to live. Became a RN and retired from VA hospital after 31 years.
@@carolynchilders2250 congratulations on all of your accomplishments and success. Thank you for your service.
I have had a really difficult life as an adult, but nothing what these ladies are going through on a daily basis. But with that said they seem to be fairly happy. I applaud their openness and honesty. May God Bless them and keep them safe and prayers that their lives come better and easier.
Live right up the way from these beautiful women. Living in certain parts of Kentucky is rough but i am proud to say i am from here. Thank you for doing this interview Mark!! ❣️
Imagine having to deal with such trauma at a young age
I can’t begin to imagine. I’m thankful that they all have one another 🙏🏽
Living in Kentucky, can't imagine 😂😂😂
@@henryvalentine4976Kentucky is a beautiful state. There are opportunities there. You just have to take advantage of them
@@jimbrookfield9011 to be fair that is true I have heard it is a beautiful state, however the way it's portrayed.....ehhh
I dont smoke a lot, but seeing this made me literally throw away my pack of cigarettes!! No joke!!
me too! I'm done 😮
EXCELLENT! Stay strong! 💪🏼
I hope you're serious ♡
Well good for you! That easy why couldn’t you done it sooner?
@@BlondeRockChickeverything has its time. I hope you have a beautiful day sweetheart
Just felt like crying all through this interview. I wish these sweet ladies well. I know something about abuse as a child and spouse.
Aww i love how they look out for each other you really can't by that ❤I really hope the sister gets some medical help.. That lil girls adorable.. Thank you Mark for another great watch ❤❤❤
These types of videos really make me appreciate my parents and where I’m at in life and where I could be. Mark you a wholesome man! Thank you for sharing the most interesting people
This is why we need programs like SSI and be grateful to live in a country that supports them.
MARK IS A SCUMBAG OPPORTUNIST
I’m 35, and I’ve been smoking for 20 years. I’ve tried numerous ties to quit. I don’t want this for my future. I’ve quit hard drugs, but cannot quit the cigarettes. This scared me. What a fantastic PSA.
Kenzie, you go girl! Excited for an update on her sometime in the future. ❤
cigarettes are really difficult to quit, for some people close to impossible. Nicotine addiction is a very small part of it, thousands of other chemicals in cigs are also addictive. Im 48, heavy smoker since 18, but quit with help of patches and vapes close to 7 months ago. You can do that too, but for me it was the hardest thing Ive had to do in my life. Just keep trying and eventually you will succeed.
I smoked 10yrs. 9/6/98 was my last one. It's up to you to pick up a cig with your hands. Not nicotine. I still want one but I choose not to pick one up. You have the control of your arm, not the cig. I hope this helps
Start vaping and get your "ejuice" fr9m a reputable dealer like Dr Vape It. I did after smoking 40 yrs. Quit over night. Dr said he's never heard my lungs soo clear. It's been 12 yrs now and I definitely 0dont m8ss the cigs
Replace the habit. Walk around the block every time you have a cigarette urge. I wish you a smoke free future. It would be the best thing you could ever do for yourself, not to mention your loved ones. Good luck! ❤️
@@joeblow8206 when your brain says smoke, fight it - don't bring them in the house, don't hang out with smokers. Imagine the money spent on the cigarettes and what goals you can reach with that money.
I live in this county and have for almost 43 years. FYI not everyone here had a horrible childhood. I had a near perfect childhood. We was dirt poor but my daddy worked his butt off to make sure we had EVERYTHING that WE needed. I was born and raised here by both parents and love it here. Wished we had more opportunities for poor individuals like these people.
Thanks Mark for the unvarnished truth,these ladies Testimonies dispell many accusations why people come to this pass.I hope this makes all of us give the benifit of the doubt and not judge people.
“This one’s trying to get over a cold”
Mark- “so how long have you guys been smoking?”
😅
😂😂
I died! 😂 she was choked the whole damn interview
@riceland1186 I smoked from conception to college. NOT my choice obviously. I'm so repulsed by the smell I get angry.
😂😂😂
Their first pacifier was a Marlboro 100
Mackenzie will be a great palaeontologist. Rooting for her.
She doesn’t like school and that’s a problem
@@lauramason5667no it isn’t there’s plenty of successful people who didn’t do good in school
Only bones she's gonna dig up is in the back of her Mother's closet. 🤯😵💫💀
Yeah. I think she said she was 11yrs old but only in the 4th grade..
Doubt she could spell that
Mark thank you for this. This g enjoyed it I’m sure excited to cd see a lot more.
You're doing so good sweetheart. Im glad you got help and got on suboxen. Proud of you. Keep it up!
Oh my goodness, this is so sad, I'm stressed just watching and listening to this. Someone please take Amanda to the doctor, she is not well and not recovering, this is stressful on her heart. The smoking and the tragedy in their lives, I can't imagine.
I felt so sorry for Amanda and her cough. I remember having bad bronchitis in college and I had coughing fits like that. And I wasn't a smoker. Bless her heart.
I had a lot of bronchitis in college cuz I smoked.
Serious cough more like COPD smoking doesn’t help hope she stops sending healing prayers🙏❤️🙏❤️
That dear little girl I hope she will excell in her studies and become successful and happy in her life ❤
I truly enjoy your posts. Thank you.