ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WBTV) - One year after Asheville was devastated by Helene, WBTV is heading to the mountains to share stories of rebuilding, survival, and triumph.
You can watch Part 1 of our Rediscover Asheville special above, and Part 2 below.
QC Life host Jana Angel shares why this project is so important:
One year ago, Asheville, North Carolina was struck by tragedy.
Many of us watched with feelings of heartache and helplessness as neighborhoods, businesses, and schools were washed away by Helene after decades of building and growth.
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I remember being glued to the TV alongside the rest of the country as the storm washed through so many familiar places, and my memories came rushing back. Memories of visiting friends on the weekends once college began. Memories of driving up those very mountains toward Cherokee with my Gramie.
Countless memories created by these mountain communities over the years for so many of us who call the Carolinas home.
The storm left mountain communities, our neighbors to the north, hurting emotionally, financially, and spiritually. But no storm could wash away the sprit of Asheville and the mountain people.
WBTV is heading back to those very mountains and into the stories of the people who are rebuilding. There are stories of triumph, and also stories of survival.
This production will shine a light on the progress that has been made, while reminding us that many still need our help and support as they breathe life back into community cornerstones that were swept away.
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I’m humbled to have the opportunity to be part of this production, because we are going back to places and spaces I grew up knowing and loving. I’m honored to share the stories of a community that rallied and refused to let the storm win.
What Asheville needs now is for us to step up by stepping back into the mountains. As a community that survives on tourism, you can do good and make a difference just by booking a trip, buying art, listening to music, or enjoying your favorite meal in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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