That was wonderful coverage of “Humans of Asheville” [Oct. 8, Xpress]! I enjoyed the article.
Coincidentally, I started a Facebook page called People of Asheville and WNC in April before I heard of “Humans of Asheville.” I’ve posted a photo and story every day since I started the page April 9.
There are stories about homeless people, Vietnam veterans, Beaver Lake, a skateboard park, some mountain people and Weaverville, etc. Some stories are long, and others are snippets of conversations.
It would have been so cool to have People of Asheville and WNC included in the article, although it has only 290 “likes” on Facebook and hasn’t taken off like “Humans of Asheville.” Nevertheless, it’s been a blast and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
I worked for 25-years as a newspaper reporter and photographer and published a small newspaper for 11 years. I then became disabled after a tick bite five years ago. I spent three years bedridden and fighting for my life, and lost about 80 percent of my ability to read and write.
My health coach suggested I do something I love and to get out of the house and meet people. I started photographing folks, and they often told me their stories. Then my husband, who had taken care of me all those years, filed for divorce.
Five months later, I started People of Asheville and WNC and made a pledge to myself to post a photo and story everyday. I credit all the fantastic people I met in the process for keeping me sane, moving me forward, and motivating me to write again. It probably takes me three times longer than a normal person to write.
In short, it’s been a blessing meeting everyone and realizing there’s more in Asheville than health food stores. Ha!
Lori A. Miller
Weaverville
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