The aftermath of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina has left many veterans isolated and in need of assistance. The VA healthcare system has been sending teams to visit these veterans, providing vital supplies and medical care.
One of the biggest challenges faced by the VA outreach teams is the rugged road conditions in the mountains. Despite improvements in road access, the teams still have to take lengthy detours to reach veterans in need.
One such veteran is Cliff Stewart, a 76-year-old Vietnam vet living in Swannanoa, N.C. Stewart’s home was flooded during the storm, leaving him without power and in need of supplies. The VA team provided him with a weatherproof cover for his wheelchair and assistance in his recovery process.
The VA has been working tirelessly to care for veterans in the region, even in the face of their own storm-related struggles. Chief nurse Patti Campbell and nurse Matthew Bain both faced challenges in getting to work after the storm, but continued to provide care to those in need.
One veteran, Donald Harris, had to be evacuated by helicopter due to the destruction of his driveway during the storm. The VA team visited him at his home in Fairview, N.C., providing him with a new powered wheelchair and assessing his medical needs.
Despite the challenges faced by these veterans, the VA teams remain committed to providing care and support. The American Homefront Project continues to report on the efforts to help veterans in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
