Teresa Tyson

Like Loretta Lynn, Dr. Teresa Owens Tyson was born a coal miner’s daughter and grew up surrounded by the abject poverty that overshadows the Appalachian Mountains—poverty perpetuated by the dying singular economy of coal.

However, the much greater natural resources of resilience and self-reliance survive among the mountain people, and these are characteristics Dr. Tyson exhibits in her leadership of the Health Wagon.

Growing up, Dr. Tyson dreamed of becoming a missionary doctor and helping others in some faraway land. But as she got older, she realized that her own community needed her help.

She earned a bachelor’s in nursing from East Tennessee State University, a master’s in nursing from the University of Kentucky, and a doctor of nursing practice from the University of Alabama, all with honors. During breaks from school, she worked as a registered nurse at the Health Wagon, learning to care for those in need.

Dr. Tyson’s lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others has been recognized by a host of organizations. She received the Virginia Governor’s Award for Volunteerism for coordinating the nation’s largest free health care outreach, and in 2015 was appointed by Governor McAuliffe to the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth Board of Directors.

She and her husband Tim are blessed with five wonderful children: two boys and three girls. Dr. Tyson understands the plight of individuals facing uncertain healthcare crises—her oldest daughter had a brain tumor at the age of seven and survived against all odds.

Dr. Tyson is compassionate and understanding of those who are impacted by disease and disability. She is a strong advocate and champion for healthcare equity for all.