Dr. Randy Gordon, a Virginia physician and former Health Commissioner, recently returned from North Carolina, where he provided critical medical support to communities hit hard by Hurricane Helene.
With infrastructure crippled—power outages, fallen trees, and downed water systems—he and other volunteers faced considerable challenges treating patients in makeshift shelters without hospital resources.
Among the most pressing issues was ensuring patients dependent on oxygen concentrators had a continuous supply. Dr. Gordon and his team tirelessly swapped out mobile oxygen tanks, forming connections with those they helped despite the circumstances.
Reflecting on the experience, he said, You have to maintain a little bit of a distance, but you do really get to know the survivors… They were just so appreciative.
While power has been mostly restored, purified water remains in critical demand. With at least 95 lives lost in North Carolina and 250 across the Southeast, Helene’s impact continues to linger, underscoring the importance of ongoing support.
The Red Cross is actively seeking volunteers to join relief efforts, particularly as the holiday season approaches.