Our Story
Despite 20 years in healthcare and extensive education as a registered nurse and health coach, Tonoah P. Hampton DSL, MSN, RN, experienced numerous personal health challenges resulting in 12 abdominal surgeries over 12 years. She grew frustrated with the healthcare system and doctors unable to provide guidance or an answer for the repeated issues. In 2015, after her 11th surgical procedure, she had the revelation that her physical health was connected to her spiritual health. The issues and traumas of her youth were causing diseases within her body that could not be cured by medicine alone. It had a deeper root; doctors did not have the instruments for healing those wounds.
While recovering from surgery, something drew her attention to an article about intentional wound healing and the hidden drama that influences our ability to heal. She realized that was her case. The past issues related to her womanhood created repeated tumor growth, despite having a hysterectomy, which impacted her health and healing. At that moment, Dr. Tonoah birthed Balm Inc to address the social determinants of health that influence a woman's decision-making and well-being. Dr. Tonoah knew she was not alone. Many women know what they should do, but because life happens, their decisions are altered. Choices are determined by random selection, people's opinions, delay tactics, analytical thinking, or good feelings.
On September 5, 2018, Balm Inc received IRS 501c3 tax-exempt status. Thanks to the support of the faith community and other generous partners, Balm Inc found its home in Landover, Maryland, offering a safe space for women to share their authentic truth about the issues impacting their well-being.
Knowing that health goes beyond the physical, Balm Inc partners with volunteers to provide assistance, activities, and experiences designed to help women develop and maintain healthy lifestyles. We incorporate various activities to promote health, wellness, resiliency, and empowerment. As a result, women develop self-awareness, increased self-esteem, improved decision-making, and build a greater sense of community.
