AlignLife chiropractic franchisees support communities after Hurricane Helene

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which hit the southern U.S. in September, AlignLife chiropractic franchisees in North and South Carolina have supported their communities through acts of compassion, resilience and service.

AlignLife cofounder Joseph Esposito, DC, noted in a company press release that the chiropractic franchisees’ response in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene exemplifies a core value of AlignLife: that people matter.

“Rebuilding these communities is going to be long-term, and our franchisees in these areas and across the country are determined to help make a difference,” he said.

Meet a few of the chiropractic franchisees who helped out

In Spartanburg, South Carolina, Chris Bedenbaugh, DC, closed his practice for a week after Hurricane Helene and helped clear trees and debris in Spartanburg and into North Carolina. “My heart has always been to help others, which is why I began my chiropractic career,” said Bedenbaugh.

In Tryon, North Carolina, after Helene hit his hometown, Clay Baker, DC, drove two hours to find a generator to continue to serve his patients. Donations from friends out-of-state and family in Tryon meant Baker could provide chiropractic care, hygiene items and food to his community.

“We want to serve our patients in any way we can and remind them we are here to provide support, not just in health but through these tough times,” said Baker.

In Greer, South Carolina, chiropractic franchisees Raymond Nichols, DC, and Mariya Shaeffer, DC, offered hot coffee, a shower and somewhere for residents to shelter and rest during the aftermath.

In Asheville, North Carolina, Chris Boyhan, DC, opened his clinic for those in need once the power was back on two weeks after Helene passed through. In addition to supporting relief efforts for those displaced and consultations for physical and mental health needs, he extended free evaluations to workers and volunteers.

Boyhan is raising funds to purchase shower filters for residents who have not showered in over a month due to excessive chlorine in the filter system. The filters will allow families a sense of normalcy, he said.

“The water treatment facilities for the community where we live in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and where the chiropractic office serves in Asheville, North Carolina, have been severely damaged and will take months to repair,” said Boyhan.

Overall, reported ABC News, Hurricane Helene killed 230 people, and the Associated Press noted the storm caused at least $53 billion in property damage.

For more information, visit alignlife.com.