At one time, it was the world's largest chiropractic institution. It produced thousands of doctors who went on to become leaders, researchers, teachers, and -- perhaps most importantly -- competent practitioners. It pumped millions of dollars into the Georgia economy and brought widespread, usually very positive publicity to the chiropractic profession. With its outreach to women and minorities, it was a champion for the cause of diversity. Its "Chiropractic Without Borders" program brought subluxation correction to thousands of third world people around the world.

Like any chiropractic school (or organization, or doctor for that matter!), it wasn't perfect. There were problems and areas that needed improvement. But it was still a major force in the chiropractic community and one of the most recognized and respected institutions in the world.

Last year, the school was brought to its knees by the CCE's decision not to renew its accreditation. The debate over whether or not that decision was justified was elevated in U.S. District Court when Judge Charles Moye Jr., granted the school an injunction and restored its accreditation. The CCE has appealed the decision but for now, as a school celebratory event noted, "Life Goes On."

There's no denying that the school took a big hit. In his ruling, the judge said, "the Court has no difficulty in finding that, absent the temporary injunction, the Plaintiff will suffer irreparable harm." Actually, even with the injunction, the school has suffered irreparable harm. Life President Ben DeSpain, D.C., told me legal and associated fees will run more than a million dollars.

Sadly, frightened by the possibility that Life would cease to exist, students were understandably frightened and more than 1,800 of them left. Recruiters from several colleges descended on the school, exacerbating an already difficult situation. Reluctantly, students transferred to other institutions, leaving Life with a greatly reduced revenue base. On June 15th, 190 students received their D.C. degrees.

Can Life really go on, particularly if the CCE pursues the appeal? I don't doubt it for a second. The school has weathered bad times before. It's stood up against criticisms and attacks from both within and outside the profession. It has a tremendous group of loyal supporters who acknowledge its contributions and love it, warts and all.

I'm not what you'd call a Life "groupie." I've had my differences with the school and with its founder, Sid Williams. But I don't think it deserves to be crushed into the dirt because of the judgment of a few CCE officials -- some of whom are associated with those schools that, within hours after the announcement was made, had recruiters in Georgia luring students away from Life. I believe it deserves the chance to defend itself and fight the CCE appeal. And I think the students who want to return need to be given some help meeting the extra expenses involved in doing so.

The school is definitely doing its part to raise the money it needs to rebuild. It's reduced the size of its paid staff, sold off property and liquidated various assets. It's not about to go down without a fight.

But it needs people in its corner, people willing to help it financially. It's set up a special "Circle of Life" program to raise funds to restore its status as a "world-class university." According to President DeSpain, the money will help cover legal expenses and fund scholarships to help defray the added expenses returning students will face.

Life is asking for contributions with levels ranging from $25 per month to an annual contribution of $12,000. As Dr. DeSpain explained, "your gift, whether $2,500 or $25, makes a significant difference for the University. Contributions to this Capital Campaign identified as "Circle of Life", will assist the University in several areas including, rewarding talented and promising students with scholarship opportunities and honoring the accomplishments of dedicated faculty. As an alumnus or friend, perhaps your greatest reward is the role you play in preserving the Life spirit and supporting the Life family."

You don't have to be a Life grad to give. Or even a real Life fan. Just someone who wants to give the school a fighting chance to rebuild and continue serving the profession.

There's no downside to that.

For more information on the Life Capital Campaign, contact Dr. Susan Gavallas at 770-426-2753, or outside the metropolitan Atlanta area toll free at 1-800-543-3406. She may also be reached via e-mail at gavallas@life.edu.