Nurse Fights Against Chronic Disease in Appalachia

In Mingo County, West Virginia, where working-age people are dying at record rates, nurse Sam Runyon is learning what it takes to make America healthy. She treats patients with multiple chronic diseases, including Cora Perkins, who has survived two types of cancer but struggles with diabetes and congestive heart failure. Despite a long history of healthcare issues, Sam visits her patients regularly to provide support and ensure they receive necessary care. Her dedication is a vital step in addressing the growing health crisis in Appalachia.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/02/us/chronic-disease-us-americans.html