The man named Ray really made me sad. He clearly wanted to communicate and was excited that someone new was around. His own limitations frustrate him more than they offend society I can promise you that.
Something I don’t think people are understanding is that Mark was not being naive or ignorant to ask Ray questions, he knew that Ray could not speak, but he saw that the man understood and was happy to feel heard and acknowledged by someone
Yeah I noticed that when he asked Ray if he remembered his brother and nodded yes as well as when he asked if he remembered Mark he nodded yes Ray is able to understand people but lacks the cognitive skill to speak which is truly frightening
Stop saying he’s dumb for asking ray questions, he was clearly happy to be talked to, he probably doesn’t get much interaction due to only saying hey and barking
I see your point but there's a difference between talking and asking questions. Doesn't make sense to keep asking questions when you know you'll never get answers. Interviewer should've talked to Ray by complimenting him or telling him a story.
@@blindthief I don't know. Ray was the one who went to the most effort to answer Mark's question about Freddy. a lot of non verbal disabled people are like people who can understand a language but not speak it. I wonder how much Ray would be able to say if he knew ASL (a lot of non deaf people use it).
Might seem that way but it'll be the significant lack of brain development /brain damage which is the reason for the lack of communication - not role models.
If Ray could speak, he would have told the entire story. He was the only one willing to. The head lady probably needed a gift to get her warmed up to speak about the parents and grandparents. This is so sad.
I'm sure they've gotten grief all their lives about their family situation, then some stranger and a Yank comes by asking questions. I'm sure she didn't want to invite criticism. They're all probably pretty tight lipped in that community.
I’m actually questioning if im in a UA-cam comment section or comments at all because this is unfathomable that everyone here has kind things to say! Kudos to you all! Hug yourself. You deserve it!
I reckon Ray has been neglected and left with the dogs for most his life , he Is actually communicating with the dogs as he can relate to them more than humans
When he was asking Ray about his brother passing away, Ray points at the ground. I think Ray understands a lot, he just never learned how to communicate. So he has picked up his own form of communication from the dogs.
I love that the community around them sticks up for them. That’s so amazing. And I love that this was done in a respectful way. Not sarcastic or cruel.
@@Nzmwwww1238incest may be wrong, but people can’t choose how they were conceived, and they can’t choose what cards they were dealt in life. nonetheless, they are human beings who deserve to be treated as such, and it’s great that they have a community that supports them
And the fact he can communicate in his own way and shows intelligence when people show him attention proves alone he has some smarts there. If anyone called him stupid. I think they'd be very far off track. Just because he can't speak like the rest of us DOSENT mean he's dumb. And he clearly knows how to make himself understood. That shows decent intelligence. Maybe if someone taught him ASL when he was younger it would have done so much for him. It's such heartbreak to see him like this.
Yes, I believe that he's aware. He seems happy, so there's no reason to feel sorry. He can't talk, that's perhaps frustrating at times, but he got his brothers and a neighbor by his side. What I try to figure out is if it's good to make a film about them. Yes, I was watching it to satisfy my curiosity, but they were clearly not seeking attention and that's why I feel sympathy. In this crazy media world where people have their lives downloaded and some go to the extreme to be seen and heard, the brothers feel fresh despite the junkyard that's their home. That's why I hope that they don't become a zoo.
I can almost say, for certain, Ray has a lot to say. After talking about Freddy, he led us toward his grave. He’s probably full of information, stories, and memories that just can’t be expressed.
@@zerothehero3426 It ain't that deep, its just a country thing. Did you expect them to spend $10,000 on a funeral? Some people have to make do with what they have.
@@chilliecheesecake Again, here where I live self disposing of a dead body isn't allowed. If you don't have money for a funeral you get it cremated at a really low price, cinerary urn included.
ray had the most to say, but he couldn't. but you can tell he was happy someone was visiting. bless that man and his heart. and everyone in this family too - they didn't ask to be born like this.
When Mark talked about Ray’s brother “So, you lost your brother?”, Ray very purposely and even took his time to point clearly at the ground (buried), then point across the road to where the grave is at (over there).
Ray really loves Mark as a good friend I hate he said he probably will never go back because BJ & all the lies & Larry just lied to get $700 dollars to take BJ to NC & didn't BJ probably got drugs with the money BJ one selfish woman & her son Brandon is a druggie to he needs to get a job & stop lying around having kids I can't stand lying people & druggie I'm going to pray 🙏 I hate Mark done with them because Ray & Timmy Lorraine loves Mark but I don't blame him 💯🙏💙🙏 I hope he goes back but don't give nooooo money to them 💯💯💯❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
When Mark offered his condolences to the woman on the left who was never named her faced clouded and the camera panned away clearly showing respect for her pain and loss. The camera could have lingered exploiting her suffering but it didn't. I wish there was a way to help this family, but you have to be so careful not to cause more harm with interference. Hopefully social workers are on it.
listen to him and you can see his IS one of the dogs all of his verbal skills are legit barks and that's why he's able to communicate and bond with those dogs the way he is,they literally just see another dog
I was thinking the same thing it’s actually kind of terrifying I have no doubt he’s able to communicate with those dogs the whole family seems like they communicate with some barking system ray didn’t come back out on the porch until his brother made some weird barking noise and then he immediately turned his head to the door and walked out
I don't know if I'm just stoned but it seems like he has pretty clear signs/sounds for "yes" and "no". I don't know why he kept asking him open ended questions.
Definitely agree with you. It must be such a boring and mundane life with little of interest going on. Looks like they just sit all day on the porch, eat sandwiches and sleep.
oh yeah good job! Gold star. FFS this is where we are now. We used to get ribbons for achievements and actual grades now its about being able to bark when someone asks you a question. Do you not see how absolutly nonsensical this all is??
Agree 100%. Ray, and others like him, didn't ask to be born. They were brought into the world involuntarily and deserve compassion, not hate or disdain.
Ray is clearly more intelligent than everyone is assuming he is. Every time he's asked a question he replies with a head movement, or in the only other way he can. When asked over and over about his brother, Freddy, he points outside, everytime!! His brother is buried under the flowers! He was trying to show/tell where his bro was, numerous times! Clearly he's intelligent enough to get frustrated! Feel for the man..not his fault he's on this earth, in this state of existence. Hope the best for this family.
@@Naomi.H.85 The journalist didn't say that. He said, "Oh, is that Freddy's grave?" It was just a bare patch of ground. Grave. No flowers. There was another bare patch of ground a little farther away, maybe another grave. It could be the family graveyard. I don't think Ray is more intelligent than anyone is assuming, no one said how intelligent he is but he's clearly severely handicapped. The journalist is asking him questions so he probably knows or thinks Ray can understand those questions, or maybe he is only reacting to one word he is familiar with, the name "Freddy." Say it enough times and he can lead you to the grave and point to it. He pointed to himself in answer to "Ray." And he knows only one syllable, more of a grunt, it's either a ha or ya. Very sad state. I wonder who that man looking at the paper was? Another brother, but more normal and ignored by the journalist. I wonder if the nephew's, Timmy, parents were any of the people in the video? That would mean his father and mother are also his uncle and aunt, just like the way it is with his uncles and aunts.
It makes me happy the community protects them from becoming a spectacle or tourist opportunity, it would be sick to see this family portrayed inappropriately
The community is ashamed. They are kept swept under a rug rather than getting help from the state, like special education for Ray, who may have learned how to speak with intervention. I cant imagine the other health problems these people must have. I dont doubt that individuals within their community have helped them in small ways, but the community as a whole (and by that I could mean the state of WV) seems okay to just.. host their pets.
I gotta say, its really great that their neighbors and the sheriff's protect this family and won't let them become some road side attraction for tourists to go visit while passing through. Their community protecting them and showing them they care is hard asf to find nowadays especially in cities or suburbs. You only really find that in small towns now adays. And even then it's still pretty rare
I believe Ray has a very special gift that most of us only wish we could have. He has a very close bond and can communicate with dogs on a level non of us can. He can probably communicate with other animals too.
I think you're right. He very clearly did want to communicate and the only time he was quiet was at the end when Mark said goodbye, that was sad and educational (to me) too.
50 something years ago speech therapy wasn't nearly developed enough and he probably would've regressed more since they used punishment a lot when a child couldn't speak properly
What's interesting to me is that Ray understands simple English, but either doesn't or can't speak it. He's obviously communicating. What is unclear is how much he's really understanding and able to articulate a response. This is an interesting look into the basics of human development and the mechanics of human interaction. They're obviously attempting to communicate. I worry about the woman who is doing the talking: it must be incredibly lonely to live in an environment where you're the only one that can articulate your thoughts.
Look up "set points" in psychology. Multiple long term studies have proven if you do t learn how to speak by a certain age, you never will... You can learn to understand but if you don't actively speak regularly this is part of why the speech pathology profession exists
I feel bad for Ray because you can tell the past 60 years the dogs have paid attention to him but not his own family --- which is why he barks instead of talking --- the guy loves having a friend around and Mark was that friend, even for just a couple hours
This guy could care less. He got what he wanted and left. You think any of the proceeds from this video will go to helping the family? Heck no! It's sad too because 30,000,000 views would easily generate 5 figures on UA-cam alone (if not more).
I’m amazed at how Ray is more able to communicate than other members of the family, maybe he is not saying words, but he’s actually answering the questions
U guys r ridiculous u have no idea if hes able to answer the questions other than the one about his name. The patch of dirt was where a camper burned down and is way too fresh to possibly be where they buried the brother. Its certainly possible he understands and is trying to communicate but none of us have any idea
Mark you are such a gentle soul in how much respect you honoured this family with and your way of communicating with each person. This is truly your calling. I can see how Ray appreciated feeling seen and heard and it was heartbreaking when he pointed to Freddie's grave.
I'd like Ray to be interviewed by SBSK. He is a disability educator, and he's really empathetic to these conditions. He says that everyone communicates in different ways. Not all are verbal, but all are valid.
@@rolfenmonster Oh, I'd be willing to bet he has a diploma. I'm not saying he learned the curriculum though. It really is a poignant comment on the sad state of our education system here in the US.
This absolute breaks my heart but also opens my eyes so much! Makes me question why I’ve ever complained about small things in my life in comparison to what these people have went through. I just found your videos today of a lot of your interviews and I’m hooked. What an absolutely incredible person you are mark ❤
The two sitting on the couch seem like they're completely oblivious. Ray actually seems pretty cognizant of what's going on but is unable to express himself.
This interviewer frustrates me so much because it's clear that Ray can respond to yes or no questions, but he keeps asking him open ended things. Like, it's pretty clear he can't speak, try some new tactics to communicate.
@@cbh4166 the point of the interviewer asking opened ended questions is to not make him feel any less. He treats everyone the same regardless of who they are.
@@octamaster5000 nah. Lorraine showed awareness and gave orders to ray and timmy. They're just not comfortable with outsiders. They were obviously embarrassed and I think they knew they were in a video. They probably show more communication skills to close relatives and friends. Besides ray, he just barks and says hey
You are right. Anyways, Ray is the result of his parents. There is no way Ray could have a voice by having another father or mother, he would just not exist.
@Warslave UA-cam keeps deleting my reply for some reason, but you need to stop talking out of your ass. Aphasia is caused by brain damage. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aphasia This is more likely the result of neglect and missing the critical period for speech development. www.businessinsider.com/critical-period-for-language-acquisition-2013-10
This is very sad but Ray seems like a sweet heart. The effort he's putting into trying to communicate and the constant smile on his face is lovely. It's clear he understands he just can't communicate.
I felt frustrated for Ray when he was trying to explain where his brother was buried. He was very patient with the interviewer, trying again each time he was asked about Freddie.
You can tell how much Ray is willing to communicate. It must be frustrating to not be able to express himself in language, but you can see him reply in his nods and showing where Freddy was buried.
Ray is a sweet guy, hes the only one willing to speak even tho he cant form words. Hes like a curious toddler exited when people visit them. In another video about the family he pulled out a chair for the cameraman proving that hes a good guy and wants no harm.
Ray is so sweet you are exactly right he has so much hes trying to communicate!!! My heart goes out to them they need more people around them. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I agree completely, I guarantee he has a lot more going on upstairs than what he’s able to show with communication. He knows exactly what’s being said to him I can bet.
@Ethan R. Its their grandparents, probably even their great-grandparents fault. For how underdeveloped they're it's definitely been going on for generations.
Im not sure its accurate to say that. He definitely might be the most outgoing and obvious to us that he wants to communicate. But they very well may want to..
Ray kinda fascinates me. I would love to know, from a professional, how a human can be exposed to spoken language every day - he obviously understands everything - yet cannot form words. I don't understand. Some people have mentioned in the comments that he might have been abused, i.e. locked up with dogs, etc. Even if that was true, wouldn't he still be able to speak? I keep going back to the fact that he understands when spoken to. Fascinating, and so sad.
@@lilyflower9093 understanding language and being able to form words comes from the same area of the brain but is a different process. It's not unusual for developmentally delayed people to understand even multi step instructions, retain the info and perform the task but still not capable of communicating verbally without intensive speech therapy. It's entirely possible that he saw the dogs got what they needed with barking and physical cues that were easier for him to mimic than language.
I feel like Ray was so happy about having someone over that wasn’t just there to see “what they are” and to judge but to actually talk to them and be genuinely interested and keep them company for a little while. I feel like if he had gone to school he could’ve had a chance of improving his language and be able to communicate better. He seems like a smart guy
I guarantee his family understands what hes trying to say, my brother is low functioning, just gotta learn their dialect. I can hold a full conversation with my brother when others just nod and say "oh yeah?"
as a person who's lived in Appalachia her entire life, almost 40 years, i appreciate the respect with which these people have appeared to have, for this family in WV. a lot of people not from this region, they would probably be inclined to laugh at them. but there is nothing that's funny about the conditions some people in Appalachia are forced to live in. some through their own fault, but the majority, due to tons of factors outside any one person's control. the poverty runs real deep here in this part of Appalachia. it's not quite as bad here in KY, in some ways, but there are many, many places where it's plain as day when you drive in to town. i know for KY, half these hollers didn't get electric lines ran til like, the 1960s. these are very, very isolated little communities tucked back in the mountains, lots of open farmland, forests, and mountains, and few houses in between, with little teeny towns sprinkled in. lots of places in my area have roads in real bad condition, and some of these places are just downright inaccessible, cept by ATV maybe. and for cell and GPS signal, ha! good luck, lol. it'll be spotty at best, non-existent in many places though, and that's just a fact of life here. the isolation, lack of infrastructure, then there's the lack of investment and jobs. lack of education, especially in the older generations, which had to drop out of school to tend the farm and animals. generational poverty. i've spent a lot of time in parts of KY that are considered economically disressed. there's exceptions to all of this, of course, but this is generally speaking. and that doesn't even touch on how bad coal has screwed over Appalachia. i think its important to kind of shine a light on these things though, so people can see how some parts of America really live. the environment itself creates a lot of resilient people here in Appalachia, though
It’s really interesting observing Ray. He seems to be fully competent in understanding everything you said, just unable to verbally communicate properly. That must be super frustrating for him. Seems like such a lovely guy though, hope he’s doing well
I am grateful for the neighbors and members of the community who look out for this family. It’s really sad but they seem to be somewhat happy. Betty is a saint for taking care of those 3 others. May God Bless them.
There's a lot of people commenting on how he was talking to people who couldn't communicate back. I thought that not treating them like idiots was actually very kind of him. To ignore them and not acknowledge them or treat them differently would have been rude.
@@cvsman379 Ray didn't initiate any of the conversations. He went inside and sat down. Then when he went in to talk to him, Ray got up and sat on the porch
I was going to say Ray is trying to tell you where his brother is because each time you mentioned Freddie he took you outside and pointed at the garden. Poor guy knows exactly whats going on but can't express himself verbally.
@@mulb3rrystreett273 easy there superstar. You still dont know whether he understands or not , you couldn't possibly know even though you think your a hotshot who does. Go play mr know it all somewhere else. Wow
I live in Bolivia and the mennonites here are brutal with incest, sex and having children between brother and sister or father and daughter or mother and son is something totally normal to them.
Ray seems like such a sweetheart, he’s just excited to talk to someone. He makes me happy, sitting there eating his sandwich with a smile on his face 🥺❤️ protect this man he’s an angel
Ray is awesome but it seems the dog has taught him more then any human his whole life... he tries to bark and he seems like he would be a cool friend...
i feel bad for ray. he can obviously understand what the interviewer is saying, but he can’t communicate back. i think it would be great if he could somehow learn ASL. he seems like a smart man
Ray serves a purpose don't feel bad He is the alpha in the dog pack that makes sure no one escapes on foot through the wilderness Timmy is the family member that whacks out prey they catch with the shovel over the head, The neighbor with the shotgun get's to play with the purdy ones they catch from time to time, All in all they one big happy family so don't feel bad.
@Stop Deleting My Accounts UA-cam IKR wouldn't it make a great movie Deliverance 2 The Whitaker Mountains. And the Neighbor with the shot gun is retired law enforcement generationally since time began and his son is doing the work that his daddy did and his dad and so on have been cutting of escapees by vehicle and dad and son teaming on the purdy ones they catch and drag back to the basement in the shed.
@@hesdoneitagainthatharrykan7548 Bro they got all bases covered there so no one escapes by any means if you think about it. They got the local cop son of the last cop there cutting off any vehicular escape and Ray and the dogs with Timmy and the shovel to hunt you down like a wild animal if you tried to leg it out of there. Either way you getting caught boy.
What amazes me is that the man interviewing these people got more answers about what happened to the dead brother from the guy who barks like a dog, than the seemingly coherent people.
Yes, you are touching on something broader, also. Many people see communication as part of intelligence, but it is merely a correlation. There are many highly intelligent non-verbal autistic people and others as well. There are also more men, in general, that have communication issues. Just because someone can talk and another person can't, doesn't mean that the able communicating person is smarter.
Everybody else is hiding the information. You can tell theyre embarrassed about the incest and retardation and why theyre not saying much. The brother being buried on the property shows something not right either and why they are quiet
Excuse my English. I don't think it's smart to keep putting money into this broken and neglected house. It would be better to buy a new trailer. The house is a garbage dump. Everthing is dirty and broke but it's really great that someone cares about these people. Respect to all of you ❤️🙏
If somebody could teach Ray some sort of sign language or something he would definitely tell some stories. It’s clear he has some form of language comprehension. Bless their souls
I think there have been attempts to teach feral kids language in adult life and they were fruitless. Language is a timed event in human development that has to kind of 'latch on' to whatever's nearby in key developmental years. If it doesn't, it can't really be retrofitted. Ray obviously latched onto the dogs' vocalisations, probably wasn't talked to by humans much at all, so what he's got is what he's got. The silver lining is that so much human communication is non-verbal: body language, tone, facial expressions. He gets all that just fine.
@@ghosttownguy7472 it was a callous comment but also essentially true. We can feel empathy and warmth for fellow humans without imagining that they've got much of interest to say. The "stories to tell" thing implies that one's life must be interesting to be cherishable, which I'd disagree with. A simple life, one that produces no stories worth telling, is still a life worth living. Edit - to the people objecting that everyone has a story to tell and a "right to be listened to": you have not met enough people.
It's not entirety true, I notice at the start of the video she got mad at ray when he grunt, she laughed when Timmy hide, and also looked at Timmy when he asked about his parents.
Ray and the rest of them will be truly free of their disabilities when they pass. They are good Christian people who were brought into this world with horrible disabilities but their day will come that they will be truly free from all of it as they walk with the Lord❤️
@@johnuruski651 How do you know they're Christians, did they mention god, did you see them go to church? Don't label people christians if you don't know. I would've hated that if you did that to me
Has anyone ever attempted to teach the Whittaker family basic sign language? The intellect and desire to communicate is present. The way this family supports one another is such a positive atmosphere to learn in. ❤
The dogs and humans barking was really becoming torturous to listen to. That was surreal. How different all of our lives are. All of Mark's videos are intense but that really was next level.
I remember the first time I saw this video, I was listening to it while doing something else and I can remember thinking "Goddamn that dog bark is so fucking annoying" then I realised it was a person
Yes, he was genuine. The poor devil has severe learning disability and is possibly on the spectrum. In Europe, these people would be offered help or even hospitalised for self-neglect, which is recognised as a form of abuse.
@@Oliver-fu6ig oh come off it, you Europeans are being conquered by invaders and your government allows it to happen. These coddling policies you speak of are the reason refugees escape justice for their horrendous acts. You have nothing to be proud of.
Although the family are short on intelligence and civility I d rather leave my son with these people than the subhuman species that murder children and sexually violate them. Big statement I know however true words I have spoken. At least they love each other.
I’ve seen most of your videos and all between you and Tyler. Your amazing bro like an angel I really hope that you don’t let him get to you anymore and please keep going! Your amazing with great interesting material
The most important thing is that he treats the family with dignity. He asks them about their history, their lives, treats them as complete people with individual and shared histories and idiosyncrasies. And they are.
Repent and trust in Jesus. We all deserve Hell for our sins, such as lying lusting coveting and more. We can't save ourselves, but Jesus can save us. He died on the cross to save us for our sins and rose from the grave defeating death and Hell. You must put your faith in him only. He is the only way to Heaven. Repent and trust in Jesus. Romans 6:23 John 3:16❤❤😊❤
Yeah I noticed that too. He definitely communicates just like the dogs. That is really .... I don't even know. I don't know what to say or think about this. Devastating stuff.
I find it interesting that Ray communicates through sounds that he probably learnt from the dogs since that's what the noises sound like, you can tell he enjoys communicating with people, new people especially.He seems to have a sweet personality and just is a kind person all around.
He's pure and has an innocent nature about him. A man dealt a rough hand in life given many "bad deals" so to speak but still maintains a positive outlook and joyful presence. If that's not inspiring I don't know what is.
It seemed like you made Ray's day by visiting. He seemed excited to show you around the property. Even though it was really hard for him to communicate with you, just you being there and taking an interest seemed to make his day.
Its very depressing, especially when a stranger coming to visit is the most exciting thing that happens to him. This is sad no one should have to live in poverty like that.
@@michellepatino8733 Everything is relative. When they don't know any different life, vusitors, getting to ride a car, seeing a picture can all be very exciting
@@nicoler.4356 My guess would be global aphasia either from brain trauma or a birth defect/abnormality...he's around people who can speak so he'd be able to regardless of not attending school. Obviously that's just a guess though.
Lol he has some intelligence he offered a sandwich im his hand showing hospitality to guest.....and he showed them the spot where his brother passed away
Isn't it fascinating?! @5:49 Ray tells Mark where his brother is with his gestures. It blew my mind once I realized why he pointed to the ground and then to something out of frame.
@@richwaters3451 at 5:49 i think he was pointing to the spot where they found his brother ...and the grass area which he takes them too thats where they buried him.....
It's like Ray was neglected and just hung out with the dogs growing up communicating with them solely. This is sad but a lot of beauty in Ray's soul. He seems happy just to be alive and breathing.
At 4:18 when mark asked what he's eating Ray show's over he's sandwich, at 4:44 when his sister asked him to come out on the porch, he does, at 5:40 when mark says he lost he's older brother Ray first points at the ground (maybe to say that he's d3ad probably buried) then points to his exact location where he's buried 10:55 , 9:50 when asked if he remembers his brother and misses him, he nods, he also tried saying something by moving his hand. Ray seems to understand everything but slowly, he was happy to be acknowledged and had so much desire to communicate, the only time he didn't respond was at 11:50 when mark said he's gonna leave, Ray seemed sad. Their executive functions, their ability to manage themselves haven't developed enough to meet task requirements usually expected for a person of their age. Clearly, this is negligence and lack of resources and medical attention. Ray has alot to say, it would've been different if someone could've taught him sign language.
@general rodcocker Sign language can be good for people who can't vocalize properly too. I work with people who has disabilities and many of them use sign language to enhance what they're trying to say. It's not the normal sign language though, it's an easy one made for people like Ray for example.
@general rodcocker It's pretty self explanatory why sign language. If a person can't communicate verbally even if they aren't deaf, then what do we usually teach them? Sign language.
Thank you for going to spend time with them. How respectful you were made me cry. This was the best way you could have possibly shown us a glimpse of their life.
Yes Ray told us more in no words than the sister did, it seems she was ashamed and didn’t want to give up too much about her family. It’s understandable, what happened is in the past and their parents are long gone. I doubt they continued the inbreeding.
@@smg9020 Do you have a crystal ball that helped you to make that ridiculous assumption or are you trying to pretend you graduated from college? Haha. Be quiet. You know nothing.
@@deanarmistead Somewhere in the comments the videographer confirmed it was the site of a trailer fire. Note the size and strict rectangular shape of it. Freddie's obituary confirmed he's buried in Virginia, in the family plot. And he died in 2013; just digging a hole/refilling it surely would've had weeds growing there again in 7 years.... but a fire scorching the ground takes a lot longer to reseed itself. Think about it.
You can tell that they try to act normal but seeing them struggle to talk or communicate is so heart breaking. Their emotion says more than a million words
It is heartbreaking and you can tell they want to say things and interact more but struggle to communicate and they most definetly understand everything being said.
Those dogs look healthy, protective of that family while well-behaved. That's a good sign. This is undoubtedly the deepest upload Ive come across on youtube, and that says a lot. It makes me sad, then not because a part of me thinks, "they're fine". Odd, Wedt Virginia. There are no coincidences.
Ray is trying so hard to communicate. You can see how happy he is that someone is talking to him. This breaks my heart. He has a very beautiful heart. I am saddened by their situation but stil warmed at heart that their neighbors are protective. Let's hope that people will not use them as an amusement.
yes. the seem liek such nice people and what they're parents did should not have been placed on them to take the responsibility. I'm happy at least they're people that care for them
Yes I agree 100%. My dad would've been the type to come out with a shotgun also. My parents have always been protective and stood up for those that were in need regardless of thier situation. Sadly they have passed now but my parents legacy lives on. My daughter is 14, and was suspended from school. What for??? As she went to the school bathroom a wheelchair bound student had slipped of the toilet. Instead of helping her another student taunted and kicked her while she was down. But....she didn't see my daughter behind her. She told the bullie "touch this girl one more time and you will findout first hand what it's like to need a wheelchair. "😂 It was worth the suspension as she made a life long friend along with it. They're inseparable now ❤
This is incredibly fascinating and yet quite saddening to see, I knew this stuff has gone on for years but to see it firsthand outside the Hollywood versions we see in media, really opens up a new experience.
Yo Jax good to see you on here wow. Huge fan. I know this isn’t appropriate for this vid. But huge fan love your content. And yeah this is incredibly fascinating but also sad 😞
This is the most respectful youtube comment section I've ever seen.
@Naruto Isan nah it's just you.
Well, it's nice for a change.
I was just thinking this. I am so proud of the people commenting.
I was thinking the same thing.
Right because I was thinking what in the hills have eyes is going on... I really need to know the story behind the story to this.
The man named Ray really made me sad. He clearly wanted to communicate and was excited that someone new was around. His own limitations frustrate him more than they offend society I can promise you that.
@Moist Beans agreed
He communicates fairly well for a guy that cannot speak
You're projecting your own emotions. You don't know how he feels or thinks about anything.
@@удивительный-б8х Udivitelnyj, nice name for a Russian friend. I can onlY guess and wonder. Bolshoi krasivaja familia BTW.
i felt the exact same thing , thank u for writing this so perfectly .
Something I don’t think people are understanding is that Mark was not being naive or ignorant to ask Ray questions, he knew that Ray could not speak, but he saw that the man understood and was happy to feel heard and acknowledged by someone
Yeah I noticed that when he asked Ray if he remembered his brother and nodded yes as well as when he asked if he remembered Mark he nodded yes Ray is able to understand people but lacks the cognitive skill to speak which is truly frightening
He absolutely was communicating and understood Ray. I understood what he was saying.
@@thatonehispanic7982 it’s not frightening. It just is what it is. They learned to live that way
Beautiful on the inside as well MsSierraAlexis...great observation!
You never know what you'll get out of someone who has been overlooked for so long.
I will never complain about anything again...ever..
I was thinking the same thing. 😢
Amen so true 💯❤️🙏 thank God I'm very blessed prayers for all them 🙏❤️🙏
💀💀💀💀💀
You are allowed. It's all relative.
*complains about mcdonald's order one day later*
Stop saying he’s dumb for asking ray questions, he was clearly happy to be talked to, he probably doesn’t get much interaction due to only saying hey and barking
Modisho ru ru
I see your point but there's a difference between talking and asking questions. Doesn't make sense to keep asking questions when you know you'll never get answers. Interviewer should've talked to Ray by complimenting him or telling him a story.
@@blindthief I don't know. Ray was the one who went to the most effort to answer Mark's question about Freddy. a lot of non verbal disabled people are like people who can understand a language but not speak it. I wonder how much Ray would be able to say if he knew ASL (a lot of non deaf people use it).
@Friedrich der Kluge you turned two negatives into a postive and got me laughing.
@Friedrich der Kluge bruuuh
It’s like Ray was never taught properly to speak and he almost copies the dog noises around him. This is really heartbreaking.
You're right
And hes copying bird sounds from chicken
Yes your right, that come from lack of social activities. The animals were more then likely his only friends
Might seem that way but it'll be the significant lack of brain development /brain damage which is the reason for the lack of communication - not role models.
The entire family seems aphasic. But sweet and frightening vulnerable. I wish them serenity.
If Ray could speak, he would have told the entire story. He was the only one willing to. The head lady probably needed a gift to get her warmed up to speak about the parents and grandparents. This is so sad.
Why can’t he speak?
@@G59NEV4EH because did you watch the video? They dont seem like a talkative bunch. He probably talks to the dogs more than the people
This is a effing disgrace in complete utter disgust.
She doesn’t want her family story to be viewed by millions of people on the internet. I can understand her not wanting to discuss it.
I'm sure they've gotten grief all their lives about their family situation, then some stranger and a Yank comes by asking questions. I'm sure she didn't want to invite criticism. They're all probably pretty tight lipped in that community.
I’m actually questioning if im in a UA-cam comment section or comments at all because this is unfathomable that everyone here has kind things to say! Kudos to you all! Hug yourself. You deserve it!
How is this the thing that makes people be respectful?!? I really enjoy it
Why you acting like you such an angel 😂
It’s not Facebook that’s why.
Kindness is free so I sprinkle it everywhere 🙂
You do realize UA-cam has the tamest comment sections on the internet. Period.
wow how ironic that the only one willing to talk was the one who couldn't speak
Deep
Imagine what he would say tho
@@blessedbygod123 hahaha ikr
Like the kid who always wants to read to the class but can't read for shit
@@123benbryant exactly
I reckon Ray has been neglected and left with the dogs for most his life , he Is actually communicating with the dogs as he can relate to them more than humans
@@mars7612 lol yeah no kidding, never said it wasn’t but he has been neglected also!
Take a look at how dirty his shirt is and how pants are falling completely off and his shoes are on the wrong feet and tell me he isn’t neglected
Wow... is that medically a fact?
@@bobabooey4537 What does that mean ?
yeah, wow
When he was asking Ray about his brother passing away, Ray points at the ground. I think Ray understands a lot, he just never learned how to communicate. So he has picked up his own form of communication from the dogs.
I agree with you
Wow
Yes, it literally sounds like is imitating the dogs (and maybe other animals too). I especially noticed it here 5:42
Nope
Could be ! 🤔
I love that the community around them sticks up for them. That’s so amazing. And I love that this was done in a respectful way. Not sarcastic or cruel.
I’m surprised that they stick up for them considering how wrong incest is
@@Nzmwwww1238 I get that. But if they’re the product of it and not the actual ones doing it 🤷🏼♀️
@Kelsey-dk4vw ikr to them it's normal but how is it not disgusting to have seggs with your own sibling
@@Nzmwwww1238incest may be wrong, but people can’t choose how they were conceived, and they can’t choose what cards they were dealt in life. nonetheless, they are human beings who deserve to be treated as such, and it’s great that they have a community that supports them
@@mars_mallow_ Exactly 100% this!
I feel so bad for Ray, he clearly understands but he can't speak.. But he's aware of what's going on and he understands what people are saying
And the fact he can communicate in his own way and shows intelligence when people show him attention proves alone he has some smarts there. If anyone called him stupid. I think they'd be very far off track. Just because he can't speak like the rest of us DOSENT mean he's dumb.
And he clearly knows how to make himself understood. That shows decent intelligence. Maybe if someone taught him ASL when he was younger it would have done so much for him. It's such heartbreak to see him like this.
he must have lots of things to say but he can only communicate with one sound
Yes, I believe that he's aware. He seems happy, so there's no reason to feel sorry. He can't talk, that's perhaps frustrating at times, but he got his brothers and a neighbor by his side. What I try to figure out is if it's good to make a film about them. Yes, I was watching it to satisfy my curiosity, but they were clearly not seeking attention and that's why I feel sympathy. In this crazy media world where people have their lives downloaded and some go to the extreme to be seen and heard, the brothers feel fresh despite the junkyard that's their home. That's why I hope that they don't become a zoo.
@The blended gentleman this is still the internet
So a mute that can make noises is sad to you?
I can almost say, for certain, Ray has a lot to say. After talking about Freddy, he led us toward his grave. He’s probably full of information, stories, and memories that just can’t be expressed.
Man, wtf, Is there allowed to bury people in your own yard? That, to me being italian, is some craaazy shit to think of.
@@zerothehero3426 It ain't that deep, its just a country thing. Did you expect them to spend $10,000 on a funeral? Some people have to make do with what they have.
@@chilliecheesecake Again, here where I live self disposing of a dead body isn't allowed. If you don't have money for a funeral you get it cremated at a really low price, cinerary urn included.
True, he seemed to be the most excited to communicate. The woman that was able to talk didn't seem that willing to answer
@@zerothehero3426 what do you do if ur loved one doesn't want to be burned my dad would kill me if I burned him
ray had the most to say, but he couldn't. but you can tell he was happy someone was visiting. bless that man and his heart. and everyone in this family too - they didn't ask to be born like this.
Well said
What happend with the little boy?
They didn’t ask to inbreed?
@@Sosytus ray didn’t ask to interbreed did he dumbass he was born due to interbreeding of his parents and then was forced into interbreeding
@@Sosytus what's inbreed?
When Mark talked about Ray’s brother “So, you lost your brother?”, Ray very purposely and even took his time to point clearly at the ground (buried), then point across the road to where the grave is at (over there).
True. Nonverbal communication ❤
Ray did more talking than anybody and he can't talk.
Ray really loves Mark as a good friend I hate he said he probably will never go back because BJ & all the lies & Larry just lied to get $700 dollars to take BJ to NC & didn't BJ probably got drugs with the money BJ one selfish woman & her son Brandon is a druggie to he needs to get a job & stop lying around having kids I can't stand lying people & druggie I'm going to pray 🙏 I hate Mark done with them because Ray & Timmy Lorraine loves Mark but I don't blame him 💯🙏💙🙏 I hope he goes back but don't give nooooo money to them 💯💯💯❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Yeah, he´s a nuclear powered genius! Wow!
When Mark offered his condolences to the woman on the left who was never named her faced clouded and the camera panned away clearly showing respect for her pain and loss. The camera could have lingered exploiting her suffering but it didn't. I wish there was a way to help this family, but you have to be so careful not to cause more harm with interference. Hopefully social workers are on it.
Ray has a bond with those dogs, they seem super loyal to him. Like they understand him on a whole other level. Damn this is heartbreaking.
If anything ever happens to ceasar I can sleep easily knowing we have ray to take his place.
listen to him and you can see his IS one of the dogs all of his verbal skills are legit barks and that's why he's able to communicate and bond with those dogs the way he is,they literally just see another dog
@@frankgallagher7478 shut up frank
@@frankgallagher7478 no man 😂😂😂🤫
I was thinking the same thing it’s actually kind of terrifying I have no doubt he’s able to communicate with those dogs the whole family seems like they communicate with some barking system ray didn’t come back out on the porch until his brother made some weird barking noise and then he immediately turned his head to the door and walked out
Oddly enough, Ray seemed the most coherent, but unable to express himself with words.
He seems really happy to be talked too
I don't know if coherent is the word I would use, but yes, he does seem to be most willing to interact.
Yes he is very coherent, speaks fluent chihuahua
I don't know if I'm just stoned but it seems like he has pretty clear signs/sounds for "yes" and "no". I don't know why he kept asking him open ended questions.
@@gelderland768 damn you for making laugh at this sad video now i feel so bad
I wish the interviewer would’ve asked ray more yes and no questions just to see him answer and how happy he was that someone was talking to him
agreed
Yeah, but he asked them only about their dead brother... Good kind of question to people
I feel like Ray was pretty cognizant of what was going on around him, For whatever reason he just can't communicate it.
Ray is so sweet, it breaks my heart he can’t communicate more. When he points out his brothers grave, so sad.
He have enough ppl around him and animals he is happy
@@Comments-eu3cbhe is but his family doesnt talk the whole time.This is ONE day of their life.Imagine decades like this
The fact that Ray, who isn't able to speak properly, was the most open of the bunch and most likeable person...
They all seem like nice people but Ray has a personality that does shine through in a special way. ♡
You could understand what Ray meant more than anyone pretty much. He had his own language.
Ray definitely pulled at my heart strings
You have a crush on ray?
Barking?
Without being able to utter one audible word, Ray managed to say more than the entire family did all together. Good job Ray!
Definitely agree with you. It must be such a boring and mundane life with little of interest going on. Looks like they just sit all day on the porch, eat sandwiches and sleep.
@@deborahhenderson149 oh god when you bring that up, it even saddening. We only see a day of them, but they were there for tens of years
@@deborahhenderson149 exactly, it seems very mundane to us yet it’s very very boring with such a lifestyle to them for decades till the grave.
Some people can find peace in family
oh yeah good job! Gold star. FFS this is where we are now. We used to get ribbons for achievements and actual grades now its about being able to bark when someone asks you a question. Do you not see how absolutly nonsensical this all is??
Ray seems like a genuine spirit, just trapped in a body/ mind with limitations. I actually wish the best for him and his family that care for him.
That's what I was thinking.
Absolutely. You said it perfect. Wish the family long life and health.
send him money .. wish is useless .. money make dreams ..
Agree 100%. Ray, and others like him, didn't ask to be born. They were brought into the world involuntarily and deserve compassion, not hate or disdain.
@@phlipschnodt perfectly said. I'm glad they are gracious enough for us to view their lives.
Your genuine respect and politeness towards this family is appreciated by many. Thank you.
Ray is clearly more intelligent than everyone is assuming he is. Every time he's asked a question he replies with a head movement, or in the only other way he can. When asked over and over about his brother, Freddy, he points outside, everytime!! His brother is buried under the flowers! He was trying to show/tell where his bro was, numerous times! Clearly he's intelligent enough to get frustrated! Feel for the man..not his fault he's on this earth, in this state of existence. Hope the best for this family.
How do you know about his brother under the flowers? Genuinely curious
@@kunalaghera his brothers grave was shown , it’s beside the flowers , that’s what the dirt spot was
@@kunalaghera the journalist asked Ray, "Oh, is Fred under the flowers?" Ray, replies, "ya, ya!" While shaking his head, yes.
So he can do basic thing and understand some words? That doesn't make him intelligent hahahaha my bird has probably a higher IQ than all this family
@@Naomi.H.85 The journalist didn't say that. He said, "Oh, is that Freddy's grave?" It was just a bare patch of ground. Grave. No flowers. There was another bare patch of ground a little farther away, maybe another grave. It could be the family graveyard. I don't think Ray is more intelligent than anyone is assuming, no one said how intelligent he is but he's clearly severely handicapped. The journalist is asking him questions so he probably knows or thinks Ray can understand those questions, or maybe he is only reacting to one word he is familiar with, the name "Freddy." Say it enough times and he can lead you to the grave and point to it. He pointed to himself in answer to "Ray." And he knows only one syllable, more of a grunt, it's either a ha or ya. Very sad state. I wonder who that man looking at the paper was? Another brother, but more normal and ignored by the journalist. I wonder if the nephew's, Timmy, parents were any of the people in the video? That would mean his father and mother are also his uncle and aunt, just like the way it is with his uncles and aunts.
It makes me happy the community protects them from becoming a spectacle or tourist opportunity, it would be sick to see this family portrayed inappropriately
I disagree, it seems the community kept them isolated.
@@AMbradfordfilms they are down in the mountains where else are they gonna go
@@AMbradfordfilms na I think they’re doing the right think by protecting them. People are sick and would cross the line with this family
The community is ashamed. They are kept swept under a rug rather than getting help from the state, like special education for Ray, who may have learned how to speak with intervention. I cant imagine the other health problems these people must have. I dont doubt that individuals within their community have helped them in small ways, but the community as a whole (and by that I could mean the state of WV) seems okay to just.. host their pets.
Same
I gotta say, its really great that their neighbors and the sheriff's protect this family and won't let them become some road side attraction for tourists to go visit while passing through. Their community protecting them and showing them they care is hard asf to find nowadays especially in cities or suburbs. You only really find that in small towns now adays. And even then it's still pretty rare
I think their reasons may be a little more self centered than protecting them?
There inbreeding bro that's nasty
@@davidcamp6828 I dont think they all are, it was the first cousins that started it all. But I’m not sure.
@@davidcamp6828 do these people look capable of inbreeeding ?? It’s results of 3, 4 generations
@Booster Rooster Not wanting the world to know about them and think the entire state really was inbred like people had said?
I believe Ray has a very special gift that most of us only wish we could have. He has a very close bond and can communicate with dogs on a level non of us can. He can probably communicate with other animals too.
It's not a gift It's a learning disorder as a result of incest, he's not able to talk to animals any more than we can
I think if Ray would’ve been introduced to schooling, speech and physical therapy he would have been more able to communicate.
I think you're right. He very clearly did want to communicate and the only time he was quiet was at the end when Mark said goodbye, that was sad and educational (to me) too.
No, really??
@@1962hellen cringe
Yes ofcourse both herenity and environment. One can even out a lot the better environment.
50 something years ago speech therapy wasn't nearly developed enough and he probably would've regressed more since they used punishment a lot when a child couldn't speak properly
Am addicted to the rawness of this channel ,its depiction of the true human condition
Yess indeed... agree!
Real talk
100% agree
I agree bro.. he got some unusual content but dope at the same time..
So true my good man
Ray seems so happy that someone is just including him in conversation. Bless his fucking heart, man.
😍
Awww, so true
bless him.
Yahhh man ❤
Ray don’t know what the fuckkkkkk is going on bro so you can relax lol.
What's interesting to me is that Ray understands simple English, but either doesn't or can't speak it.
He's obviously communicating. What is unclear is how much he's really understanding and able to articulate a response.
This is an interesting look into the basics of human development and the mechanics of human interaction. They're obviously attempting to communicate.
I worry about the woman who is doing the talking: it must be incredibly lonely to live in an environment where you're the only one that can articulate your thoughts.
Doesn’t Timmy speak a little bit?
@@einfachsteff8659Yes he does you can understand some little words he says
Look up "set points" in psychology. Multiple long term studies have proven if you do t learn how to speak by a certain age, you never will... You can learn to understand but if you don't actively speak regularly this is part of why the speech pathology profession exists
It was a gut punch for me how Ray reacted when you told him you were leaving. He wanted to show you more, this was a special day for him.
Ray thought he was moving in....
I feel bad for Ray because you can tell the past 60 years the dogs have paid attention to him but not his own family --- which is why he barks instead of talking --- the guy loves having a friend around and Mark was that friend, even for just a couple hours
happy his dogs at least were there for him @@fredwerza3478
@@fredwerza3478 You're completely wrong, and if you watched all of the videos of this family you would know how stupid that is.
This guy could care less. He got what he wanted and left. You think any of the proceeds from this video will go to helping the family? Heck no! It's sad too because 30,000,000 views would easily generate 5 figures on UA-cam alone (if not more).
The one who couldn’t speak was the one who had the most to say.
Aw..
So it goes!
Awwwwwwwww
Lorraine and Timmy were too embarrassed to say anything
How true
I’m amazed at how Ray is more able to communicate than other members of the family, maybe he is not saying words, but he’s actually answering the questions
🤣😂😁😁ua-cam.com/video/HbqEnGgSRXQ/v-deo.html
Yeah if you're listening its like you can hear him say yeah I remember my brother he's buried right out there
U guys r ridiculous u have no idea if hes able to answer the questions other than the one about his name. The patch of dirt was where a camper burned down and is way too fresh to possibly be where they buried the brother. Its certainly possible he understands and is trying to communicate but none of us have any idea
@@crowntotheundergroud the entire situation is sad I wish I hadn't even seen the video honestly because its painful
@@stackingpoints417 yea it is. The guy is really happy to have a visitor and seems like a decent soul.
Mark you are such a gentle soul in how much respect you honoured this family with and your way of communicating with each person. This is truly your calling. I can see how Ray appreciated feeling seen and heard and it was heartbreaking when he pointed to Freddie's grave.
I'd like Ray to be interviewed by SBSK. He is a disability educator, and he's really empathetic to these conditions. He says that everyone communicates in different ways. Not all are verbal, but all are valid.
Yes! Absolutely! An SBSK interview is definitely needed.
I thought the exact same thing!
Excellent call. That man is an Earth angel
I would love to see him on SBSK.
Sbsk is amazing. You're right.
Timmy seemed proud to be acknowledged as a High School Graduate. Good for you Timmy!!
He should feel proud, that’s a good thing
Tiimayyyy
Absolutely no fucking way did he graduate high school!!!!
@@rolfenmonster Oh, I'd be willing to bet he has a diploma. I'm not saying he learned the curriculum though. It really is a poignant comment on the sad state of our education system here in the US.
I checked public school records and he never graduated...sorry to burst you guys bubble
Ray wants to communicate so badly! He’s has lots to say and seems social in his own way even though he’s nonverbal.
Wait... That's why he can't verbally speak?? How does that happen?
Is he picking up on how the dogs bark? And he barks like them?
@@ShawntiaKnott yea...
agreed ray has something to say,but cant
wants to talk but have no words. I feel bad for him....
This absolute breaks my heart but also opens my eyes so much! Makes me question why I’ve ever complained about small things in my life in comparison to what these people have went through. I just found your videos today of a lot of your interviews and I’m hooked. What an absolutely incredible person you are mark ❤
I’m from Scotland 🏴 btw. Absolutely love your videos. So interesting!
I wish we could all understand Ray, you can tell he had lots to say.
*bark*
@@Anonym-kd5wf idiot
When he started pointing and leading them across the road... honestly made me so sad...
@@TheDeltaPivot6 same. Because he knows. He’s aware and has really good thoughts but can’t say or express any of it :(
I laughed a little too much at this comment 😂
The two sitting on the couch seem like they're completely oblivious. Ray actually seems pretty cognizant of what's going on but is unable to express himself.
This interviewer frustrates me so much because it's clear that Ray can respond to yes or no questions, but he keeps asking him open ended things. Like, it's pretty clear he can't speak, try some new tactics to communicate.
Lorraine is far gone
@@cbh4166 he wants ray to feel loved like he can understand him to make ray feel better
@@cbh4166 the point of the interviewer asking opened ended questions is to not make him feel any less. He treats everyone the same regardless of who they are.
@@octamaster5000 nah. Lorraine showed awareness and gave orders to ray and timmy. They're just not comfortable with outsiders. They were obviously embarrassed and I think they knew they were in a video. They probably show more communication skills to close relatives and friends. Besides ray, he just barks and says hey
Ray wants to communicate so bad. I’m heartbroken
MKB1L 🙄
@@MKB1L Stupidest comment I seen here and boy are there a lot
@@MKB1L wow, you are so funny...
MKB1L, you’re a sad individual.
Right, he obviously understands things. He just can't speak them.
It’s GENETIC, people!!! This is exactly what happens when family interbreeds.
💯 This always happens when blood brothers and sisters decide to have kids.
Uh yeah, we all know that already. The titles are very clear. Perhaps you missed them.
@@kevlarkittens why are you so upset?
Guy's like Ray just wish they had a voice to speak. They didn't choose their parents and have their voice literally taken away.
You're right, it's not their fault what their parents did even if this is the outcome
You are right. Anyways, Ray is the result of his parents. There is no way Ray could have a voice by having another father or mother, he would just not exist.
It sounds like his parent was a dog.
I think Ray was extremely neglected as a child and that's why he barks.
@Warslave UA-cam keeps deleting my reply for some reason, but you need to stop talking out of your ass. Aphasia is caused by brain damage. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aphasia
This is more likely the result of neglect and missing the critical period for speech development.
www.businessinsider.com/critical-period-for-language-acquisition-2013-10
This is very sad but Ray seems like a sweet heart. The effort he's putting into trying to communicate and the constant smile on his face is lovely. It's clear he understands he just can't communicate.
He just ate one too many roosters.
@@oldkoot5828🤡
@@oldkoot5828💀
aw shaddup!@@oldkoot5828
He should have been properly educated
It broke my heart when I realized Ray was "talking" and it wasn't a dog barking. This video did something to me
Man i felt weird watching this i felt like my body got numbed
The dumb thing needs to shut its inbreeded behind up.
@Tai Chi Tube I RESPECT your answer
It creeped me the fuck out. 🥴
@@WindDevil69 creeped me out too!😂
Anyone who says abortion shouldn't be allowed in cases of incest needs to watch this
So sad. Seems like he picked up his communication skills from interacting with the dogs more. May God bless his soul!
Oh my god that i just realized that....that is so sad
What's so sad, they have food water friends there happy, shit there happier than most people I meet
And the black doggie protects him!
@@ziggybarth5026 🥺
@YoungD3mon314 it's quaint
I felt frustrated for Ray when he was trying to explain where his brother was buried. He was very patient with the interviewer, trying again each time he was asked about Freddie.
ua-cam.com/video/VA0ruoKAnHA/v-deo.html
You can tell how much Ray is willing to communicate. It must be frustrating to not be able to express himself in language, but you can see him reply in his nods and showing where Freddy was buried.
Who gave you guys right to videotape my family??
@@nr1NPC Who are you?
@@Grace-jb7me hes a troll😂
he also says here when he asks where the grave is, he’s definitely able to process things quite well
Can I know where your profile pic is from?
Ray is a sweet guy, hes the only one willing to speak even tho he cant form words. Hes like a curious toddler exited when people visit them. In another video about the family he pulled out a chair for the cameraman proving that hes a good guy and wants no harm.
🤢🤢🤢🤮🤮🤮🤮
Ray...he has so much that he’s desperately trying to communicate. He seems really happy tho, and that gives me a little comfort.
Ray is so sweet you are exactly right he has so much hes trying to communicate!!! My heart goes out to them they need more people around them. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I agree completely, I guarantee he has a lot more going on upstairs than what he’s able to show with communication. He knows exactly what’s being said to him I can bet.
@Stop Deleting My Accounts UA-cam it’s not they’re fault :( they didn’t ask to be born that way 💔
@@eviex134 Yet they keep messing around with their own siblings, it's entirely their fault.
@Ethan R. Its their grandparents, probably even their great-grandparents fault. For how underdeveloped they're it's definitely been going on for generations.
poor Ray is the only one wanting to say anything and he can't. this just breaks my heart watching this
The poor version of the rothchilds...
Im not sure its accurate to say that.
He definitely might be the most outgoing and obvious to us that he wants to communicate. But they very well may want to..
Ray kinda fascinates me. I would love to know, from a professional, how a human can be exposed to spoken language every day - he obviously understands everything - yet cannot form words. I don't understand. Some people have mentioned in the comments that he might have been abused, i.e. locked up with dogs, etc. Even if that was true, wouldn't he still be able to speak? I keep going back to the fact that he understands when spoken to. Fascinating, and so sad.
@@lilyflower9093 He definitely needs to work with a speech pathologist! I surmise he would be eager to speak!!
@@lilyflower9093 understanding language and being able to form words comes from the same area of the brain but is a different process. It's not unusual for developmentally delayed people to understand even multi step instructions, retain the info and perform the task but still not capable of communicating verbally without intensive speech therapy. It's entirely possible that he saw the dogs got what they needed with barking and physical cues that were easier for him to mimic than language.
I feel like Ray was so happy about having someone over that wasn’t just there to see “what they are” and to judge but to actually talk to them and be genuinely interested and keep them company for a little while. I feel like if he had gone to school he could’ve had a chance of improving his language and be able to communicate better. He seems like a smart guy
I guarantee his family understands what hes trying to say, my brother is low functioning, just gotta learn their dialect. I can hold a full conversation with my brother when others just nod and say "oh yeah?"
Dude are u serious? Seems like a smart guy? Wow
@@cladd9910 he does. He knows what’s going on.
@@samanthabrianne5076 hahahahahahahaha yea he seems super smart and so do you 👍
@@cladd9910 you must be bored , surely you can find something better than spreading negativity
as a person who's lived in Appalachia her entire life, almost 40 years, i appreciate the respect with which these people have appeared to have, for this family in WV. a lot of people not from this region, they would probably be inclined to laugh at them. but there is nothing that's funny about the conditions some people in Appalachia are forced to live in. some through their own fault, but the majority, due to tons of factors outside any one person's control. the poverty runs real deep here in this part of Appalachia. it's not quite as bad here in KY, in some ways, but there are many, many places where it's plain as day when you drive in to town. i know for KY, half these hollers didn't get electric lines ran til like, the 1960s. these are very, very isolated little communities tucked back in the mountains, lots of open farmland, forests, and mountains, and few houses in between, with little teeny towns sprinkled in. lots of places in my area have roads in real bad condition, and some of these places are just downright inaccessible, cept by ATV maybe. and for cell and GPS signal, ha! good luck, lol. it'll be spotty at best, non-existent in many places though, and that's just a fact of life here. the isolation, lack of infrastructure, then there's the lack of investment and jobs. lack of education, especially in the older generations, which had to drop out of school to tend the farm and animals. generational poverty. i've spent a lot of time in parts of KY that are considered economically disressed. there's exceptions to all of this, of course, but this is generally speaking. and that doesn't even touch on how bad coal has screwed over Appalachia. i think its important to kind of shine a light on these things though, so people can see how some parts of America really live. the environment itself creates a lot of resilient people here in Appalachia, though
I feel like ray understands everything and is at least near fully aware he just can’t express himself with words.
very much so ):
Doubt it. He didnt even come outside when prompted.
@@brasstacksboxing409Funny comment. He replies in what he is capable of doing, and responds 110% better than the other two that don’t even talk. So.
@@vadavada6233 if u say so...
@@brasstacksboxing409 shes right m8
It’s really interesting observing Ray. He seems to be fully competent in understanding everything you said, just unable to verbally communicate properly. That must be super frustrating for him. Seems like such a lovely guy though, hope he’s doing well
No he didn't.
@@phillippasteur3904 why not
He seemed happy to me
I definitely wouldn’t say fully competent but he is non-verbal so he understands more than most think...
I wonder if he’d be able to communicate via communication methods some non verbal autistic people use like buttons that say words or images pressed
Ray's so sweet and almost ready to answer all the questions asked in his own unique language. God bless him
Ray's smile is very infectious. He radiates happiness in this video.
@@andrewb8698 ain't it! We love Ray!
Ray’s just vibing
I know but you know that at least one of them must understand him to a certain extent.
“Do you remember anything about your life?” There’s a very clear yes head nod. He understands but can’t express himself. So incredibly sad.
I am grateful for the neighbors and members of the community who look out for this family. It’s really sad but they seem to be somewhat happy. Betty is a saint for taking care of those 3 others. May God Bless them.
God doesnt exist, fool
@Smith People like you are worse than the religion fanatics
look at em, they’re not happy. their brains just don’t work
@@chinadashauthority65 shouldn't you be in a wet market?
Right now I am hiding my dog
@@lookingforikigai9005 Yeah they are, just not to your liking. I would love to know how you know they aren't "happy"?
There's a lot of people commenting on how he was talking to people who couldn't communicate back. I thought that not treating them like idiots was actually very kind of him. To ignore them and not acknowledge them or treat them differently would have been rude.
Yesss, just because he can’t verbally speak with words doesn’t mean he doesn’t understand. He seemed like he understood the questions.
Right! To not speak to that man who clearly wanted a conversation would be rude and dehumanizing.
@@cvsman379 Ray didn't initiate any of the conversations. He went inside and sat down. Then when he went in to talk to him, Ray got up and sat on the porch
Yes we should give people like this a place or even a nation . Call it America 2.0
I was going to say Ray is trying to tell you where his brother is because each time you mentioned Freddie he took you outside and pointed at the garden. Poor guy knows exactly whats going on but can't express himself verbally.
Exactly so he cant reveal timmy did it🤔
Umm.. no he doesn’t know what’s going on clearly, the guy is barking and pointing into midair wtf lol
@@mulb3rrystreett273 I think he does know what's going on but to a certain extent.
@@mulb3rrystreett273 easy there superstar. You still dont know whether he understands or not , you couldn't possibly know even though you think your a hotshot who does. Go play mr know it all somewhere else. Wow
If you notice, he actually seems to understand most of the things he is being asked, like see how he reacts or responds
Makes you wonder what other families are living up in those mountains still.
I live in Bolivia and the mennonites here are brutal with incest, sex and having children between brother and sister or father and daughter or mother and son is something totally normal to them.
Timmy proudly smiled when they said he graduated from high school..
What's that tell you about the worth of a diploma? I'm seriously asking.
Our diplomas mean absolutely nothing
Timmy thinking "arh harh harh im duh smart one"
That’s because he was shitting his pants.
The comments under this are disgusting... does it make you feel good making remarks like that.
Ray seems like such a sweetheart, he’s just excited to talk to someone. He makes me happy, sitting there eating his sandwich with a smile on his face 🥺❤️ protect this man he’s an angel
I agree.
Can you protect me? I'm an angel as well
Protect this man with all costs the reporter too!
Yeah, Ray seems like a nice guy and wants to talk to people. I pray that when he passes on, he'll be free of his physical and mental deformities.
He seems kind but Angel might be a bit of a stretch.
Ray is awesome but it seems the dog has taught him more then any human his whole life... he tries to bark and he seems like he would be a cool friend...
I actually agree! And i feel like maybe the dog was just the one who gave him the time he needed to gain a social experience in life.
@Marcus Straya What is/was?
It so sad watching this those poor brothers born into this hellish situation
@@shaecolon692 makes u wonder why ppl would do that if the outcome is so bad like that for the kids
@@laurarobb385 the result of no sex education and carelessness lol
This comment section has restored my faith in humanity.
i feel bad for ray. he can obviously understand what the interviewer is saying, but he can’t communicate back. i think it would be great if he could somehow learn ASL. he seems like a smart man
Ray serves a purpose don't feel bad He is the alpha in the dog pack that makes sure no one escapes on foot through the wilderness Timmy is the family member that whacks out prey they catch with the shovel over the head, The neighbor with the shotgun get's to play with the purdy ones they catch from time to time, All in all they one big happy family so don't feel bad.
@@oldschoolfoil2365 i hate you bc this was the funniest thing i've read all day
@Stop Deleting My Accounts UA-cam Bro I would run screaming in the pitch black😂😂😂 look like a bunch of aliens barking like dogs
@Stop Deleting My Accounts UA-cam IKR wouldn't it make a great movie Deliverance 2 The Whitaker Mountains. And the Neighbor with the shot gun is retired law enforcement generationally since time began and his son is doing the work that his daddy did and his dad and so on have been cutting of escapees by vehicle and dad and son teaming on the purdy ones they catch and drag back to the basement in the shed.
@@hesdoneitagainthatharrykan7548 Bro they got all bases covered there so no one escapes by any means if you think about it. They got the local cop son of the last cop there cutting off any vehicular escape and Ray and the dogs with Timmy and the shovel to hunt you down like a wild animal if you tried to leg it out of there. Either way you getting caught boy.
Can’t help but think that dogs may have been Ray’s only friends growing up
Yes.
That’s how he learned to speak dog so well
I’m doubt that dog is in its 40s
@@marcovazquez5654 Lol, good comeback.
Doug Benson ihy💀💀
What amazes me is that the man interviewing these people got more answers about what happened to the dead brother from the guy who barks like a dog, than the seemingly coherent people.
Yes, you are touching on something broader, also. Many people see communication as part of intelligence, but it is merely a correlation. There are many highly intelligent non-verbal autistic people and others as well. There are also more men, in general, that have communication issues. Just because someone can talk and another person can't, doesn't mean that the able communicating person is smarter.
Everybody else is hiding the information. You can tell theyre embarrassed about the incest and retardation and why theyre not saying much. The brother being buried on the property shows something not right either and why they are quiet
Don't be such an asshole about this family. Dude speaks proper Pekingese .
@@shanemiller2046 lmao...
There's a dude reading a newspaper just ignoring the whole thing. You can see him when Tim is hiding.
Excuse my English. I don't think it's smart to keep putting money into this broken and neglected house. It would be better to buy a new trailer. The house is a garbage dump. Everthing is dirty and broke but it's really great that someone cares about these people. Respect to all of you ❤️🙏
If somebody could teach Ray some sort of sign language or something he would definitely tell some stories. It’s clear he has some form of language comprehension. Bless their souls
I think there have been attempts to teach feral kids language in adult life and they were fruitless. Language is a timed event in human development that has to kind of 'latch on' to whatever's nearby in key developmental years. If it doesn't, it can't really be retrofitted. Ray obviously latched onto the dogs' vocalisations, probably wasn't talked to by humans much at all, so what he's got is what he's got. The silver lining is that so much human communication is non-verbal: body language, tone, facial expressions. He gets all that just fine.
Stories about living in a filthy house with barking dogs in the middle of nowhere?
@@jd5734 Jesus, have a heart you prick.
@@ghosttownguy7472 it was a callous comment but also essentially true. We can feel empathy and warmth for fellow humans without imagining that they've got much of interest to say. The "stories to tell" thing implies that one's life must be interesting to be cherishable, which I'd disagree with. A simple life, one that produces no stories worth telling, is still a life worth living.
Edit - to the people objecting that everyone has a story to tell and a "right to be listened to": you have not met enough people.
@@boiledelephant uh, okay man. I think I see what you were getting at, but, I wasn't really looking for philosophy...
Lorraine is the definition of the lights are on but no one is home. Props to Ray, you can tell he’s a lovely soul without him saying an audible word.
She almost looks like she's about to cry when Mark asks about her family.
It's not entirety true, I notice at the start of the video she got mad at ray when he grunt, she laughed when Timmy hide, and also looked at Timmy when he asked about his parents.
Mark has done so much to help this family. It's nice to see such a genuine person making such a big difference to their lives.
Ray and the rest of them will be truly free of their disabilities when they pass. They are good Christian people who were brought into this world with horrible disabilities but their day will come that they will be truly free from all of it as they walk with the Lord❤️
@@johnuruski651 How do you know they're Christians, did they mention god, did you see them go to church? Don't label people christians if you don't know. I would've hated that if you did that to me
The first bit when the lady introduced Ray the second time, the way he stepped out and pointed to himself, all excited, was so sweet.
When the internet seems unredeemable, redemption pops up from totally unexpected places.
Bitch he would eat your ass 😂😂😂
A lot of people bullying him bless him , it’s not his fault he’s this way and he seems to understand what people say but can’t get his words out
Has anyone ever attempted to teach the Whittaker family basic sign language?
The intellect and desire to communicate is present. The way this family supports one another is such a positive atmosphere to learn in. ❤
The dogs and humans barking was really becoming torturous to listen to. That was surreal. How different all of our lives are. All of Mark's videos are intense but that really was next level.
4:12 - How old are you ?
- "woof"
Lol @ the dogs and humans barking. They seem happy enough.
994/995
I remember the first time I saw this video, I was listening to it while doing something else and I can remember thinking "Goddamn that dog bark is so fucking annoying" then I realised it was a person
🤣😂😁😁ua-cam.com/video/HbqEnGgSRXQ/v-deo.html
The way Ray felt so comfortable showing them where Freddy was buried is so sweet. Ray seems so genuine and so happy to have somebody to talk to.
I feel like the interviewer made Ray feel very comfortable and he seemed happy.
Was Freddy the one in the middle of the picture?
Yes, he was genuine. The poor devil has severe learning disability and is possibly on the spectrum. In Europe, these people would be offered help or even hospitalised for self-neglect, which is recognised as a form of abuse.
@@Oliver-fu6ig I think.they would much rather be at home than some hospital, it's not this is an illness that can be cured.
@@Oliver-fu6ig oh come off it, you Europeans are being conquered by invaders and your government allows it to happen. These coddling policies you speak of are the reason refugees escape justice for their horrendous acts. You have nothing to be proud of.
I think ray is the only one really wanted to talk but couldn't
Although the family are short on intelligence and civility I d rather leave my son with these people than the subhuman species that murder children and sexually violate them. Big statement I know however true words I have spoken. At least they love each other.
@@emmanuallemarro3908 what
@@emmanuallemarro3908 they must be your kin then
@@damientrurocque9625 duh yep they are I met up with you at a family reunion as well. Too much rock duh duhdamien.
@@emmanuallemarro3908 Your kid would just wander off in their care, none of them even seem to have a firm grasp on reality
I’ve seen most of your videos and all between you and Tyler. Your amazing bro like an angel I really hope that you don’t let him get to you anymore and please keep going! Your amazing with great interesting material
The most important thing is that he treats the family with dignity. He asks them about their history, their lives, treats them as complete people with individual and shared histories and idiosyncrasies. And they are.
Well he shouldn't. They're a bunch of inbred animals.
Repent and trust in Jesus. We all deserve Hell for our sins, such as lying lusting coveting and more. We can't save ourselves, but Jesus can save us. He died on the cross to save us for our sins and rose from the grave defeating death and Hell. You must put your faith in him only. He is the only way to Heaven. Repent and trust in Jesus.
Romans 6:23
John 3:16❤❤😊❤
@@christianweatherbroadcasting🤫
I didn't realize, at first, that that was Ray barking. I thought it was the dog.
I just realized that too
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
In one interview it seemed as if Ray mimicked the dog barking as they both sounded alike.
Omg I just clocked that
@@dchex23 lmmfao
Ray understands everything that’s going on around him, just can’t verbalize. So heartbreaking! God bless.
@Satan's Soggy Queef Not trying to be funny i thought that was the dog making those noises at the beginning
Yeah I noticed that too. He definitely communicates just like the dogs. That is really .... I don't even know. I don't know what to say or think about this. Devastating stuff.
He may be echolaic and just repeating what he hears.
@@focused4841 Me too.
Poor man this breaks my fucking heart
I find it interesting that Ray communicates through sounds that he probably learnt from the dogs since that's what the noises sound like, you can tell he enjoys communicating with people, new people especially.He seems to have a sweet personality and just is a kind person all around.
ray seems like a chill ass dude he don't need words hes just charming in a way
true, he seems very kind hearted
A friend of mine’s father had a severe stroke and lost his speech. He never regained it but he did adopt a very similar collection of a few sounds.
literally couldnt help but smile everytime ray was on camera just being happy go lucky
don't rile Ray to go Sling blading...
He's pure and has an innocent nature about him. A man dealt a rough hand in life given many "bad deals" so to speak but still maintains a positive outlook and joyful presence. If that's not inspiring I don't know what is.
It seemed like you made Ray's day by visiting. He seemed excited to show you around the property. Even though it was really hard for him to communicate with you, just you being there and taking an interest seemed to make his day.
He showed them Jimmy’s grave
Its very depressing, especially when a stranger coming to visit is the most exciting thing that happens to him. This is sad no one should have to live in poverty like that.
@@michellepatino8733 Everything is relative. When they don't know any different life, vusitors, getting to ride a car, seeing a picture can all be very exciting
@@lollsazz perception is reality.
@@michellepatino8733I think they are much to disabled to feel depression or even think about any thing.
Ray breaks my heart. He seems like such a friendly guy but he just can't communicate what he wants to say.
He can't communicate cuz he's never had the opportunity to attend school
@@nicoler.4356 My guess would be global aphasia either from brain trauma or a birth defect/abnormality...he's around people who can speak so he'd be able to regardless of not attending school. Obviously that's just a guess though.
I low key want to hang out with ray
The dog knows what Ray is saying.
@@joedon1706 I shouldn't have laughed at your comment, but I did.
This is shocking, sad, insightful, scary, warming all at the same time
Ray seems like a kind soul, he's eager to tell you can see it, but the words don't come and his mind wonders off now and again. Poor guy.
Lol he has some intelligence he offered a sandwich im his hand showing hospitality to guest.....and he showed them the spot where his brother passed away
Isn't it fascinating?! @5:49 Ray tells Mark where his brother is with his gestures. It blew my mind once I realized why he pointed to the ground and then to something out of frame.
@@richwaters3451 at 5:49 i think he was pointing to the spot where they found his brother
...and the grass area which he takes them too thats where they buried him.....
It's like Ray was neglected and just hung out with the dogs growing up communicating with them solely. This is sad but a lot of beauty in Ray's soul. He seems happy just to be alive and breathing.
What about Ilhan Omar, her cousin she married, and the family goat?
@@jimdandy8996 don't forget she was married to her brother too...the goat looks better then the rest of the family 👀
@@AraCod Yep
At 4:18 when mark asked what he's eating Ray show's over he's sandwich, at 4:44 when his sister asked him to come out on the porch, he does, at 5:40 when mark says he lost he's older brother Ray first points at the ground (maybe to say that he's d3ad probably buried) then points to his exact location where he's buried 10:55 , 9:50 when asked if he remembers his brother and misses him, he nods, he also tried saying something by moving his hand. Ray seems to understand everything but slowly, he was happy to be acknowledged and had so much desire to communicate, the only time he didn't respond was at 11:50 when mark said he's gonna leave, Ray seemed sad. Their executive functions, their ability to manage themselves haven't developed enough to meet task requirements usually expected for a person of their age. Clearly, this is negligence and lack of resources and medical attention. Ray has alot to say, it would've been different if someone could've taught him sign language.
Look about Timmy when he is asked about his parents 8:00, look his face
@general rodcocker Sign language can be good for people who can't vocalize properly too. I work with people who has disabilities and many of them use sign language to enhance what they're trying to say. It's not the normal sign language though, it's an easy one made for people like Ray for example.
Isn't there a small window to learn to speak?
@general rodcocker It's pretty self explanatory why sign language. If a person can't communicate verbally even if they aren't deaf, then what do we usually teach them? Sign language.
@general rodcocker not just ""plausible"" its been done many times
Thank you for going to spend time with them. How respectful you were made me cry. This was the best way you could have possibly shown us a glimpse of their life.
Even though Ray can't talk he seems very aware of what's going on and what he's being asked
Yes Ray told us more in no words than the sister did, it seems she was ashamed and didn’t want to give up too much about her family. It’s understandable, what happened is in the past and their parents are long gone. I doubt they continued the inbreeding.
So do they have a new house now? If so would love to see it.
@@smg9020 Do you have a crystal ball that helped you to make that ridiculous assumption or are you trying to pretend you graduated from college? Haha. Be quiet. You know nothing.
@@blaze4158 wow, you're an ass
I like Ray. 😁
Wow he was pointing to his grave the whole time! It shows you how much Ray actually understands & tries to communicate in his own way
It's not a grave, bro.
@@WQ59BInv yes it is
@@deanarmistead Somewhere in the comments the videographer confirmed it was the site of a trailer fire. Note the size and strict rectangular shape of it.
Freddie's obituary confirmed he's buried in Virginia, in the family plot. And he died in 2013; just digging a hole/refilling it surely would've had weeds growing there again in 7 years.... but a fire scorching the ground takes a lot longer to reseed itself. Think about it.
@@WQ59BInv thank you for the info ! 🙂
@@WQ59BInv but didnt he die from heart attack or was that someone else?
You can tell that they try to act normal but seeing them struggle to talk or communicate is so heart breaking. Their emotion says more than a million words
Not really shit hilarious
Ughcccchh blreeaaaargggh
It is heartbreaking and you can tell they want to say things and interact more but struggle to communicate and they most definetly understand everything being said.
@@lochofmceo ur parents are prob inbred
@@BtwNodea That's a no
Those dogs look healthy, protective of that family while well-behaved. That's a good sign. This is undoubtedly the deepest upload Ive come across on youtube, and that says a lot. It makes me sad, then not because a part of me thinks, "they're fine". Odd, Wedt Virginia. There are no coincidences.
Ray is trying so hard to communicate. You can see how happy he is that someone is talking to him. This breaks my heart. He has a very beautiful heart. I am saddened by their situation but stil warmed at heart that their neighbors are protective. Let's hope that people will not use them as an amusement.
yes. the seem liek such nice people and what they're parents did should not have been placed on them to take the responsibility. I'm happy at least they're people that care for them
Yes I agree 100%.
My dad would've been the type to come out with a shotgun also.
My parents have always been protective and stood up for those that were in need regardless of thier situation. Sadly they have passed now but my parents legacy lives on.
My daughter is 14, and was suspended from school. What for???
As she went to the school bathroom a wheelchair bound student had slipped of the toilet. Instead of helping her another student taunted and kicked her while she was down.
But....she didn't see my daughter behind her. She told the bullie "touch this girl one more time and you will findout first hand what it's like to need a wheelchair. "😂
It was worth the suspension as she made a life long friend along with it.
They're inseparable now ❤
Ray showing them Freddy’s grave was heartbreaking. He obviously has such a desire to communicate.
I thought the same thing🥺
Ray has his shoes on the wrong feet which made me chuckle!
I think it’s fucked up that they drive over it though😂💚
Foame Razboinic so disrespectful
Shana Adams 💔💔
This is incredibly fascinating and yet quite saddening to see, I knew this stuff has gone on for years but to see it firsthand outside the Hollywood versions we see in media, really opens up a new experience.
This isn't incredibly fascinating, it's incredibly disturbing to know that this shit is for real!
Yo Jax good to see you on here wow. Huge fan. I know this isn’t appropriate for this vid. But huge fan love your content. And yeah this is incredibly fascinating but also sad 😞
When you hear banjos run..
I didn't expect to see you here but hey I'm 14 and trying to get in shape before school any advice?
DelmezaRane lol this has nothing to do with race but yeah you right 😂
I feel so bad for poor Ray, he seems like such a sweetheart.