TNChiroFoundation Helps in Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts
The chiropractic community in Tennessee has a proud tradition of stepping up to serve others. Be it the historic floods of 2010, devastation from tornadoes or other times of need, the TNChiroFoundation has supported these relief efforts for over 15 years.
When Hurricane Helene struck the Eastern part of the U.S. in late September of 2024, it did not just impact coastal areas. The storm dumped severe rain as far west as the Appalachian Mountains causing unprecedented flooding and destruction in east Tennessee areas. Recognizing the physical toll and immense stress that recovery work would have on the victims, first responders and volunteers, TCA Member Dr. Lori Monaco and a group of likeminded providers sprang into action. They established a Facebook group on October 4th and set out to connect with chiropractic physicians, physical therapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, hypnotherapists and mental health professionals in order to coordinate volunteers. Within 24 hours, they had 75 volunteers and began staffing the first worksite. Within 7 days, there were almost 300 following the group.
To equip the volunteer efforts, the TNChiroFoundation purchased 2 mobile adjusting tables and necessary supplies, supported by TCA Corporate Member Greenberg Sales, who assisted in ensuring high quality and speedy delivery.
Between October 5, 2024 and February 1, 2025, these volunteers provided services in the communities of Hampton, Hartford, Erwin, Newport, and Greeneville. Patients were treated in spite of many challenges, with volunteers providing care in all kinds of temps, all kinds of conditions, and all kinds of facilities, including gyms and outdoor pavilions. While many volunteers were from East TN, one came from as far as St. Louis, MO to join the response effort! In total, 52 volunteers logged almost 600 hours treating first responders, other emergency personnel, recovery volunteers, and people in these communities who were directly affected.
Our thanks and gratitude go out to this dedicated group of volunteer chiropractic physicians:
Dr. Noel Baker
Dr. Richard Ballard
Dr. Kari Leigh-Battson Collart
Dr. Stephanie Briggs Frost
Dr. Charisse Huston
Dr.
David Leu
Dr. Aaron May
Dr. Lori Monaco
Dr. Tracy Price
Dr. Ashley Robel
Dr.
Heather Schneider
Dr. Jon Scott
Dr. Michael Smith
Dr. Bryan Tilley
Dr. Scott Vautrin
Dr. Zack Wright
The experience left a positive impression not only on those who received care, but on the volunteers who were truly inspired by the resilience, gratitude and strength of those they served. Because of the time, care and expertise shared through their volunteerism, a ripple of awareness has grown bringing more people to know the heart of the Tennessee chiropractic community and the natural health benefits of chiropractic. This team was deeply honored to support the larger recovery effort and thankful to be able to do their part.
Whatever future needs arise, the TNChiroFoundation stands ready to assist our community. We are grateful to Dr. Monaco for organizing this volunteer effort and to all those who gave of their time and resources to support the health and wellness of others in a critical time of need.
For more information on the TNChiroFoundation, visit tnchirofoundation.org.