Breaking the Cycle and Finding a New Path
“The best thing I ever did is got clean. And it feels good. I never thought I could do it, I never thought it was possible where I grew up… If I can quit, look at me, anyone can.”
Growing up in Printer in Boone County, West Virginia, Suekirk White was raised by her grandmother alongside her cousins in a close-knit hollow. For years, substance use felt like an inescapable norm in her environment, eventually leading to a decades-long battle with addiction and multiple stints in prison on drug charges. However, she candidly credits her time spent locked up as a pivotal turning point that ultimately saved her life.
Getting clean required reaching a point where she was simply sick and tired of being sick and tired, realizing that true recovery had to be done for herself rather than anyone else. Today, almost two years sober, Suekirk wakes up with gratitude, clarity, and a renewed sense of self-worth. Supported by her faith, her long-time partner John, and a strong personal commitment, she proves every day that transformation is achievable no matter where you start.
Rising Above the Cameras and Stereotypes
“They took what they wanted and pieced it together… But I am not going to hurt others. Hurt people hurt people. Love does not come with a price, love is unconditional.”
When cameras descended on Boone County to film The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia, filmmakers captured over 500 hours of footage, focusing heavily on chaotic moments and extreme struggles. As Suekirk explains, viewers only saw edited snippets of trauma rather than the genuine love, daily warmth, and shared prayers that bound the family together. The resulting sensationalism left lasting wounds and fueled persistent stereotypes about Appalachian life.
Despite the pain caused by the documentary and online critics, Suekirk refuses to harbor bitterness or strike back. Recognizing that “hurt people hurt people,” she chooses forgiveness and sets firm boundaries to protect her sobriety and mental peace. For Suekirk, staying grounded in unconditional love and self-respect matters far more than seeking public approval.
Living the Simple Life and Paying It Forward
“It is peaceful up there. I take a lot of walks, play with my dogs, watch TV, listen to music, and just live life… When I make it to the top, I promise I am reaching my hand down to pull you up.”
Life looks very different for Suekirk today. Tucked away up a quiet hollow, she enjoys simple daily pleasures like sitting on the porch, spending time with her pets, and sharing quiet moments with neighbors. During her time in prison, she wrote daily journals documenting her life story from early childhood, laying the groundwork for a future book to share her full truth.
She also uses social media as a space to spread encouragement, block out negativity, and connect with people who need a lift. Rather than letting her past define her, Suekirk views her journey as an opportunity to help others find hope. Her message to anyone struggling is clear: healing is real, peace is possible, and no one has to stay trapped in their past.
Watch the Full Interview
Ready to hear Suekirk tell her story in her own words? Grab a cup of coffee and sit down for the full, heartfelt interview on Creepalachia to experience her warmth, humor, and inspiring journey firsthand!
