Whittakers-Summer 2023

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of the Whittaker family of Odd, West Virginia.

#swu #whittakers #appalachia #familyhistory #interview #summer #documentary #realpeople #westvirginia #marklaita #softwhiteunderbelly

[SoftWhiteUnderbelly]

For those preferring other ways to donate, you can also use PayPal @marklaita824 or cashapp $swumarklaita.

[SoftWhiteUnderbelly]

I rarely have time to read comments on my videos, but yesterday I took a peak and after reading a couple very sweet comments, I decided to read more. After reading many comments yesterday (all of them very kind and compassionate) it made my day. I’m so proud of the community we’ve built here. I think this is my proudest moment since starting SWU.

[jillianpantano]

Lorraine saying "hi" absolutely melted me. She doesn't ever talk, and the fact she got up, all excited and said hi to both of them. Just melted me

[iDanielaRamone]

Timmy is always busy. He’s either coloring, writing, or doing a word search. He’s always keeping his mind active. I love that. This family has really grown on me.

[Vikramish]

I hope Ray's knee pain is dealt with and his health gets better. Dude is a cool person 🙌🏻

[Americanhoney]

Oh my heart just about burst when Lorraine jumped up and greeted you both. The growth is incredible. We need more Marks in this world.

[Lisa-pxvi]

Loraine sure came to life when she saw Lauren, I’ve never heard her speak before, it melted my heart. God bless you both.

[lauriep]

It makes my whole day when Mark brings us back to see everyone . I love to see Rays face light up when he sees him . Thankyou for another great episode.

[kerrijacobi]

If this family drank alcohol or there were a few alcoholics in this family, these documentaries wouldn’t even work. That’s what makes these video documentaries so wholesome. Love this family. They literally can’t be blamed for how they are. They didn’t choose this. They are doing the best that they can. God bless them and everyone that is helping them.

[britp]

Timmy and his coloring book make me smile. Keeping his mind busy! Ray showing off his new pants so proudly… and then of course Lorraine comfortable as can be. Mark you are a absolute good hearted man for helping this family thrive again. ❤

[truckingwithtobee]

I’ve never seen Lorraine be so talkative before the videos. That is so cool how she’s so happy to see you guys❤

[pamelamoore]

This family is a testament that happiness is a state of mind. They don't care that they don't have the best home, clothes, shoes, social standing etc . . . they are just happy for what they have and for being with each other. You can tell that they would do anything for each other. This was compelling and I thank you for bringing them to us.

[Trumpwins-ig]

Please don't let Ray suffer. He should be on Celibrex ( arthritis medicine) he will have no more pain. Someone needs to take him to the doctor

[annaraines]

If they get the new house maybe we can all donate to pay for Betty to have a person come in a couple times a week to help her clean. Trying to take care of everyone has to be overwhelming for her . She's so precious.

[remembermichael]

The first time I watched these videos I was so ignorant, I looked at these people as if they weren’t human. I admit that. This video really shows me what a strong, healthy family dynamic the Whittakers have. Not only with how they treat each other but their dogs too. Wonderful people.

[doracook]

Wow, Lorraine! What joy to see her get up, smiling and hugging. Such true emotions.

[Themonsta]

Timmy going straight to heaven he just so happy and calm!

[Lilrosa-cspn]

I love Betty. She keeps them all together and always happy! So glad you are able to help them.

[Image-X]

This is the first time I’ve seen Lorraine act that way. Was so eager to greet them and give hugs. So awesome. I donated for their home and I hope everyone else does too. It would help them so much and is a way to give back for them opening their life up to us.

[TheRealMistyDawn]

Amazing to see the effects of friendship. From the first video to now, you can see how at ease the family has got with Mark. The engagement has increased noticeably.