Public Health Is Human Health: A Story from Columbus County, NC

In Columbus County in rural North Carolina, the COVID-19 pandemic changed how Lisa Richey thought about public health. Lisa came to Columbus County as a banker nearly 40 years ago and made Lake Waccamaw her home. During the pandemic, she began to see public health differently—not as something meant for other people, but as something that belongs to everyone. In this episode of *Rural Narratives*, Lisa reflects on COVID-19, trust in public health, rural healthcare, and the relationships that help communities care for one another. Today, through her handmade paper art business, Cheap Therapy, she gives most of the proceeds to local charities. For Lisa, the lesson is simple: **“Public health is human health.”** **A note on the audio:** This interview was originally recorded as part of Narrative Arts’ community research, so you may hear some shuffling and background noise. **Explore more about public health and trust:** How Access Shapes Trust in Rural Health Systems — Rural Narratives https://narrativearts.org/podcast/how-access-shapes-trust-in-rural-health-systems/ Listening in Columbus County: What a Story Circle Revealed About Public Health — Narrative Arts https://narrativearts.org/listening-in-columbus-county-what-a-story-circle-revealed-about-public-health/ 5 Tips for Building Trust When Communicating About Health — FrameWorks Institute https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/resources/5-tips-for-building-trust-when-communicating-about-health/ "Send Rural Narratives a message" Rural Narratives is a project of Narrative Arts, a nonprofit media and storytelling organization working alongside communities to share stories that deepen connection, expand understanding, and strengthen public life in rural America. Learn more at www.narrativearts.org.