Hoover 911 dispatcher returns home after helping with Hurricane Helene relief efforts

HOOVER, Ala. (WBRC) – A Hoover 911 dispatcher has returned home after spending two weeks in North Carolina helping with Hurricane Helene relief efforts.

Collin Nelson and several other Shelby County 911 dispatchers traveled to Yancy County, where there was no power, water or cell service.

Nelson said that just two days after getting the call, they packed up to provide aid and support to dispatchers in North Carolina, who were hit hard by the hurricane.

Nelson says it was scary going to an unfamiliar place at first, but once they arrived they were welcomed with open arms.

When they met the team they were filling in for, they were so caring and even though this was a difficult time for them, they were extremely helpful.

Especially when it came to learning his gear and running off of a single generator for power.

Nelson and her team faced several challenges, but their slogan “one team, one heart” gave them the strength to keep going and never give up.

Of all the non-stop 911 calls they received, Nelson says one call in particular will stay with her forever. “She was in her house with no power, no water, and she was just distraught, as was everyone. Talking to her and getting help with her, I could hear them getting there and I could hear the relief in her voice, and after I got off that call, I really felt like I made a difference in that moment.”

Nelson says that without the support and protection of Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies, her job would not have been possible.

She says that after two weeks they all became a family and it was hard for them to leave because there was more work to be done.

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