In our first story, Hammy shares his tale about family, faith, and finding yourself. What starts as a journey of self-discovery after a life-altering decision takes an unexpected turn, leading to a hilarious and surprisingly public health crisis on the very first day of a new job. Sometimes, life’s most challenging moments can also be the most liberating. Hammy calls his story “Hammy’s First Day at the Health Department”.

A man is holding a microphone outdoors, standing on grass. He is wearing a ballcap, a Hawaiian shirt, cutoff shorts and hiking boots. The scene is outdoors. Photo credit: kmr studios — Hammy – Photo credit: kmr studios

Hammy works in occupational safety, health and risk management, and he’s the founder and creative director of Queer Butte Arts and Culture, a new group celebrating local queer art, queer culture and local queer history. Last year, he was named one of Southwest Montana’s 20 Under 40, and this year he was honored as the Young Professional of the Year by the Butte Local Development Corporation. He is a homosexual, and lives in Butte with his partner Clayton—also a homosexual.

He’s passionate about harm reduction, ending stigma, and walking on his hands. Above all, Hammy believes storytelling can save lives—and he’s thrilled to be here tonight to share his story!

In our next story, Katie Van Dorn recounts a childhood marked by an unexpected physical challenge to a life defined by adventure and a relentless pursuit of wellness. Katie’s journey is filled with extraordinary feats, unexpected setbacks, and profound self-discovery. Katie calls her story “The Cracks are How the Light Gets In”.

A woman is holding a microphone, sharing a story at Tell Us Something. The setting is outdoors. There are elements of grass and ground visible. The woman is dressed in a white shirt, green shorts and is wearing sunglasses. Photo credit: kmr studios — Katie Van Dorn – Photo credit: kmr studios

Originally from La Jolla, California, Katie Van Dorn studied Exercise Physiology at The University of Montana and earned her B.S & M.S in Exercise Physiology/Preventive Health. Katie is a professional chef and is a Certified International Tour Director as well as a Certified Culinary and Wellness Coach. She is passionate about the outdoors and is a compassionate real estate agent who has been caring for homebuyers and sellers alike in Missoula for over 20 years. Katie loves hiking, XC skiing, swimming, gardening and cooking. You may have heard her Freeforms show on Montana Public Radio where she is a rotating host and producer of Thursday Freeforms.

Karna Sundby goes on a blind date in Seattle leads to a whirlwind romance and a life that feels like a dream. But when an unimaginable tragedy strikes, one woman’s world shatters, forcing her to confront the deepest despair. Follow her incredible journey through loss, unexpected healing, and the profound discovery of purpose amidst the pain. Karna calls her story “Finding the Gift”.

A woman is standing outdoors in a field, holding a microphone. She is wearing sunglasses and has her hair styled. The scene features green grass around her. she is wearing a patterned green dress. Photo credit: kmr studios — Karna Sundby – Photo credit: kmr studios

With 30 years involvement in the field of human transformation, Karna Sundby is passionate about helping people make measurable transformations in themselves and their ways of thinking. Working with clients in person and on the phone, she helps clientele overcome their obstacles and manifest their dreams. As a Master NLP Practitioner (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), along with other modalities, Karna specializes in helping clients heal from all kinds of trauma. Karna currently has an office at Peak Health and Wellness on Blue Mountain Road in Missoula, MT. You can reach her via phone or email: karna@inneraccess.org | 406-880-2555.

Kara Adolphson is a college freshman grappling with a secret grief. Kara vows to herself that she will navigate her new life and grief silently. But on the anniversary of a profound loss, an unexpected invitation leads to an art exhibit, a surprising discovery, and a breakthrough moment of joy and healing. Kara calls her story “Finding Humor After Loss”.