Best of PWV 2024: Mountain Sole Foot Care

Anita Whitehair, a registered nurse with over a decade of experience, has a deep passion for hospice care and understands the challenges faced by aging populations. Her journey to establish Mountaineer Soul Foot Care began when she noticed a significant gap in foot care services for seniors. Often, elderly patients waited six months to a year to see a podiatrist, and with Medicare not covering foot care, many simply went without.

“We’re the only foot care company in the state of West Virginia that does this,” Anita shared during the interview. “We’re run by registered nurses, and we go into the homes of people who can’t get out. For those with compromised immune systems or other health challenges, avoiding trips to the doctor can be life-saving.”

Mountaineer Soul Foot Care is addressing a critical health issue in West Virginia, where the state ranks number one in diabetes and struggles with high rates of heart disease and obesity. These conditions often lead to foot problems, including ulcers and infections, which, if untreated, can result in amputations. By providing in-home care and hosting clinics at 16 senior centers across the state, Anita and her team are offering a solution that is both accessible and compassionate.

Anita’s Personal Journey of Resilience

Anita’s path to becoming a nurse and launching her business is one of remarkable perseverance. She initially worked in banking but decided to pursue her dream of nursing after experiencing a personal tragedy. “Life is too short to be content,” she said, recounting how she put herself through nursing school as a single mother of two boys. Anita graduated in 2012 and founded Mountaineer Soul Foot Care in January 2023.

Her transition from banking to nursing speaks volumes about her determination and passion for helping others. The experience of starting her own business, though challenging, has been deeply rewarding.

What sets Mountaineer Soul Foot Care apart is its focus on convenience and accessibility. Anita provides in-home care, saving her clients from the stress and effort of traveling to a doctor’s office. Her 30-minute appointments at senior centers offer a welcoming and affordable alternative. Clients pay out-of-pocket, as no funding or grants are currently available for this type of care, but Anita hopes this will change in the future.

Building Trust in the Community

Starting a new business in a state where seniors are often wary of scams posed a challenge, but Anita’s dedication and professionalism quickly earned her the trust of her clients and even referrals from local podiatrists. By handling routine foot care, she helps reduce the burden on podiatrists, enabling them to focus on surgeries and more complex cases.

Anita’s greatest reward comes from the impact she has on her clients’ lives. “It’s whenever somebody gets up and says, ‘Wow, my feet feel so much better,’” she said. One particularly memorable moment involved a patient who needed a new pair of shoes after Anita’s care reduced their foot size by a whole shoe size.

Where to Find Mountaineer Soul Foot Care

If you or a loved one could benefit from compassionate, professional foot care, Mountaineer Soul Foot Care is here to help. Whether it’s in-home visits or clinics at senior centers, Anita and her team are dedicated to meeting your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Mountaineer Soul Foot Care’s website.