Dear FRONTLINE,

Im in eastern kentucky also, and i agree its really hard to get ahead down here, I related to Chris's story, and I deeply understand what he is and was going through, I myself get a SSA check, that will run out in September.

I plan on getting my high school diploma and going to morehead state university.

I really enjoyed the show and plan on watching the entire series.

Thank you.

Harley Hagerman
Owingsville, Kentucky

Dear FRONTLINE,

The commonality of the rural experience correlating with poverty is what struck me most. Is a profitable small town life a thing of the past?

Allison Fields

Dear FRONTLINE,

Coming from a small town in Northern Alabama I could see my own teenage years in this story. The time of uncertainty, and suprisingly I remembered that feeling that Chris Johnson seemed to have of inevitable failure no matter what. I may be remembering through tainted eyes, but I don't recall the encouragement that was given in the school from the teachers. There were no "special" schools and you either did what was expected or failed. No one seemed to care. In a way, I was almost envious thinking of how people seemed to at least appear to be concerned with the outcome of these boys life. And this gave me hope that maybe in the past 30 years, although the poverty and desperation is still present, we have progressed somewhat as a society in caring for our children.

Michael White
Florence, Al

Dear FRONTLINE,

I just finished watching the first episode. If I could have reached through the television and given Chris a hug I would have. I have three sons, and all have had their ups and downs. But with perserverance, they have made it to where it looks like they are getting settled in the right direction. It took a lot longer than I expected, and there were some big hurdles to overcome. I was so touched by you Chris. You also have big hurdles. But you also are so bright and intelligent. I don't know if you see it, but it was so evident to me.

Mary Fowler

Dear FRONTLINE,

Once again Kentucky is being portrayed as the home of poor, uneducated/unintelligent people. Once again, my home state is being falsely portrayed. As a native Kentuckian, I have long since grown weary with film producers trying to be profound and constantly missing the mark. Same old, same old...

Carolyn Powell
Damascus, Maryland

Dear FRONTLINE,

I was shocked to say the least! A mother talking her child out of an education made me sick to my stomach. Especially, when anyone can see that education is the last hope for that kid to make a life for himself. How can you get ahead when your parents work to keep you down? You would have a better chance to succeed with no parents at all. Truly shocking!

scott adams
louisville, ky

Dear FRONTLINE,

My grandparents who raised me, came from the hills of Kentucky. That is what first drew me in as a viewer. Then as I watched these two guys lives unfold, my heart became entwined with their stories. I was bullied terribly all through high school, and felt I knew how Chris felt. Always being inspired to do things and yearning to be apart of something but always being so self concious. Then I was drawn to Cody because with everything he's be dealt thus far, he's turned out pretty normal. I love this segment, and for once a show has been done on Kentucky people that shows something other than what is usually stereotyped. I would love to write or correspond with either of the young men portrayed.

Nikki Noffsinger
marion , in

FRONTLINE's editors respond:

You may write Chris and Cody directly here on our site.

Dear FRONTLINE,

The program is sort of interesting, although there are too many stories of tragic lives, and not enough stories about helping them turn out better. I hope the story has a happy ending, or at least is steered in the right direction. Makes me sick to see "journalists" watch peoples lives go down the toilet and not lift a finger to help them. Like when was time to move the trailer, why just watch the school year being flushed down the toilet, why not help. We need less "journalists", and more people that help others. That is what I haved learned so far.

Paul Burnside
Daytona Beach, FL

Dear FRONTLINE,

Chris and Cody have so much potential. Cody...I hate to think where he would be without Liz. He has his faith and Liz and his girlfriend. I like what he says about his christrianity. Chris...my heart cries for him. He seems like a great guy but he doesn't have faith in himself. He has so much to keep him down. When I look at him I see someone that can be a really good man. I am surprised by his honesty. He has potential. He doesn't have to be like his father.

Gina Boswell

Dear FRONTLINE,

These young men tell an inspiring story of hope and strength through perseverence; having to overcome significant obstacles not fit for any teenager. Not only are they exceptional individuals, I also felt the educators and administrators at the David School went way above and beyond the call of duty. This documentary (at least the first episode) was very well made. It was heartwrenching, insightful, and inspiring. I can't wait for the second episode!

Kari Krince
Levittown, PA