Tony Piana, DC, was called to serve a 12-hour shift at Ground Zero on Wednesday, Oc- tober3, 2001, nearly one month follow- ing the "morning that will live in infamy. " His post was to be St. Paul's Church, in the Financial District of NYC, only one of many \ locations used as chiropractic treatment centers for victims, volunteers, firefighters, police officers, and others still involved in the business of searching for survivors, and clearing away the wreckage which was all that remained of the Twin Towers. In an interview with The American Chiropractor (TAC), Dr. Anthony S. Piana (ASP) answers TACs questions concerning the impact on the chiropractic profession of the Sept. 11 "'terrorist attacks. TAC: Dr. Piana, do you have any specific observations for the profession stemming from your time working on Ground Zero? ASP: There has never been a more exciting time in the profession. Whereas, in the past, I have encountered resistance to the profession at public affairs, I witnessed a complete acceptance of our work at St. Paul's Church. From high-ranking officers and Secret Servicemen to the Sanitation Crews, we were needed more than the medical crew at the Red Cross tent. People sought us out all over the city, not just at the Church. There are many chiropractors involved in the effort, from the Church to Mid-town—even set up on the "Spirit of New York" cruise ship. Chiropractors staff these locations 24 hours per day to accommodate the great need for our services. I am certain, based on various conversations with military personnel, that they now see the need for chiropractors in the military, during both peace and wartime. TAC: The WTC crisis seems to be bridging many gaps among people—racial, professional, etc. Did you notice any changes in yourself or those around you regarding health care and the usual "division" among professions? ASP: In the healthcare area of the church, I noticed astonishment by the medical workers at the fact that 8-out-of-10 people who sought care by a "Professional" were looking for a Doctor of Chiropractic. At first, this took them by surprise; but, as time progressed, they were ac- tually sending people our way for care. A general acceptance of our efforts by one another was seen, and a team effort arose with the big idea in mind. TAC: What were your most vivid impressions concerning the spirit of cooperation and sense of community you witnessed at Ground Zero? ASP: People helping people, and cheering for one another. This disaster has brought a small town feeling to the greatest nation on earth. It brings tears to anyone's eyes to see the extreme number of cards, flowers, services, flags, boxes of supplies, boots, gloves, and food that everyone has donated. I tip my hat to the people organizing all the volunteer efforts, and the effect they have had on so many lives. Hopefully, though, we will never need to see such a tremendous display of community from our entire nation and allies ever again. TAC: Any final comments for our readers? ASP: I do want to emphasize that there has been incredible support from many chiropractors throughout the country. It is unfortunate that, in times of such hardship, heroes are made. The Chiropractic Profession, as a whole, is one of those heroes and we will be remembered. Dr. Piana graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA , in 1991, and practices in Newington, CT. Dr. Piana is, also, a practice consultant for Quantum Skills Consulting, an Internet consulting company. He may be reached at 1-860-667-8334.
