Meet Lee
Lee Hunsaker is the curator and producer of the wildly popular Moth-style live event that she created, HOOT and HOLLER: OUR STORIES. OUT LOUD.
Her passion is empowering all human beings to find their voice through story. She has lovingly been referred to as a “story midwife” and finds no greater joy than helping to facilitate the birth of a story. Her mission is to provide a lively, inspiring, and supportive atmosphere where participants can feel free to explore their boundless creative potential.
What strengths did you observe in the family?
My first impression is that this is a mom who loves her children. As her chatty and very busy three-year-old played on the back patio with bubbles and various toys, Mom was focused on the visit and was open and honest about her family needs. Although she suffers from type 2 diabetes and seemed physically worn out, her five children are clearly her life. She asked lots of questions of her caseworker and was open and receptive to suggestions for social interactions for her youngest daughter (who is not yet in school). She inquired about resources for her teen son who is now expecting his first child. She asked questions about medical and dental appointments for her family and her caseworker was a wealth of information. She alluded to her older kids working while juggling school, her husband doing his best to provide, and her extended family being their community. She strikes me as a woman who puts everyone else first, perhaps to the detriment of her own well-being. She is a proud woman but her load is easily teetering on overwhelming.
What did you learn from the family?
I was reminded about the things so many of us take for granted: healthcare, childcare, education, transportation, and emotional well-being and support. The relationship with the case manager was one of mutual respect and that was nice to see. There was a genuine connection and it was heartening to see the mom open to hearing about all of the resources available to her.
I learned about more organizations in Roanoke doing important outreach which give both hope and practical tools to assist families who may be struggling.
A nurse was with us on the visit as well and I appreciated her thoughtful responses when mom had questions.
What were your takeaways?
My main take away is what an invaluable organization CHIP is for our community. Without this home visit, I’m honestly not sure how mom would be able to navigate the red tape of our healthcare system and find available resources and assistance for her family.
A caseworker who is familiar with the needs of the family, who takes interest and is invested, and is directly involved in bettering the lives of those in need, is an eye opener. When so much of our system is broken, this interaction gave me hope.
Human beings need to feel seen and heard. I left the visit feeling that this family has allies, that they will not get lost in a mountain of paperwork, and that they are more than a statistic or a number.
I am humbled and my eyes are opened.