Medical Students Take the Initiative to Support Tornado Victims

HATTIESBURG, Miss. – In the wake of the devastating tornadoes that struck southern Mississippi on March 15, 2025, students at William Carey University (WCU) have stepped up to provide much-needed relief to affected communities. Demonstrating a commitment to service and community health, first-year medical students are leading efforts to supply medical assistance and aid in cleanup efforts in towns like Tylertown and Taylorsville.

Alize Sullivan, a student doctor at WCU, explained the motivation behind their initiative: As we are medical students, we thought ‘we love medicine,’ so we thought giving these people medicine would be the best course of action. Sullivan, along with fellow student Hailey Perkins, mobilized eight classmates to assemble over 70 first aid kits specifically for tornado survivors in Tylertown, one of the hardest-hit areas. This proactive approach reflects a growing trend among medical students nationwide to engage in community outreach and disaster relief efforts, bridging the gap in immediate medical needs after a natural disaster.

The students’ initiative highlights the vital role of local communities in disaster response, complementing the large-scale efforts of organizations like FEMA and the Red Cross. By focusing on immediate medical needs, these students are providing crucial support that can significantly impact recovery outcomes.

Community Collaboration Fuels Relief Efforts

The first aid kits, crucial for immediate treatment of injuries, were made possible by generous donations from local medical supply companies. We had help from Metro Medical Supply, Hattiesburg Medical Supply, also Jones County Medical Supply, Medsitis Medical Supply, and then we also had a donation from Mississippi Pain and Migraine clinic as well, said Perkins.

This collaborative effort underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in disaster relief. Local businesses, with their resources and expertise, can play a pivotal role in supplementing aid provided by larger organizations.This mirrors similar collaborative efforts seen across the U.S. during other disasters, such as the Louisiana business community’s support following hurricane Katrina and the tech industry’s response to wildfires in California.

The contents of these kits typically include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), gauze pads, medical tape, and gloves. A well-stocked first-aid kit can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious complication, especially in the chaotic aftermath of a tornado.

Personal Connections Drive Dedication

The students’ commitment to helping the tornado victims is deeply personal. Perkins, who grew up near Taylorsville, and Sullivan, who currently lives in Seminary, have both witnessed the destructive power of tornadoes firsthand. We’re both from the South, have lived here our whole lives. We kind of know what it is indeed to be a part of tornado season, Sullivan said.This shared experience fostered a strong sense of empathy and a desire to give back to their community.

Adding to their motivation was a connection to a resident of Tylertown who had served as a patient during their medical school exams. they’ve had an impact on our program and our curriculum, and we just felt after finding that connection that God was leading us to Tylertown to serve and give back to them, Perkins explained. This personal connection highlights the powerful role of human relationships in motivating acts of kindness and service.

Broader University Involvement in Tornado Relief

The efforts of the medical students are part of a larger wave of support from william Carey University. The Baptist Student Union (BSU) also organized a collection drive, gathering hundreds of essential items, including cleaning supplies, baby products, and hygiene items, to be delivered to Tylertown. Austin Burns, assistant Director of the BSU, emphasized the importance of hands-on experience for students, stating, A lot of our students, as we’re a Christian university, want to go into ministry… So it’s really important for them to get that hands-on experience as well. This isn’t just for the experience,but we’re supposed to show love and compassion like Christ,and this gives them a chance to do that.

Along with collecting supplies, three students, Don Minor, Adrian Roberts, and Chase brown, traveled to taylorsville the previous week to assist families with the arduous task of cleaning up their properties. This direct involvement allowed students to experience the realities of disaster recovery firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by affected communities.

The Psychological Impact of Tornadoes: Addressing mental Health Needs

While the immediate focus is on physical needs like medical care and shelter, the mental health impact of tornadoes should not be overlooked. The trauma of experiencing such a destructive event can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mental health professionals recommend:

• Providing counseling and support groups for survivors.
• Educating the community about the signs and symptoms of trauma.
• Encouraging open communication and emotional expression.
• Promoting self-care strategies such as exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Governance (SAMHSA) offers resources and support for individuals and communities affected by disasters. Their Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, provides 24/7 crisis counseling and support.

How to Help: Beyond Immediate Relief

While the immediate needs following the tornadoes are critical, long-term recovery requires sustained support. Here are several ways U.S. readers can contribute:

1. Donate to reputable disaster relief organizations: Ensure the organization has a proven track record and directs funds efficiently to those in need. Examples include the American red Cross,Salvation Army,and local community foundations.
2. Volunteer your time: Many organizations need volunteers to assist with cleanup efforts, sorting donations, and providing support to survivors.Contact local volunteer centers or disaster relief agencies to find opportunities.
3. Support local businesses: Tornadoes can devastate local economies. Supporting businesses in the affected areas helps them rebuild and provides employment opportunities.
4. Advocate for disaster preparedness: Encourage your community to develop thorough disaster preparedness plans, including early warning systems, evacuation routes, and emergency shelters. Contact your local and state representatives to advocate for policies that support disaster resilience.
5. educate yourself and others: Learn about tornado safety and preparedness measures. Share this information with your family, friends, and neighbors. The more prepared we are, the better we can mitigate the impact of these devastating events.