My Story
I was actually discouraged to become a Chiropractor.
Fresh out of high school, people would ask what I wanted to do for a living and I would excitedly say "I want to become a chiropractor!"
After all, I grew up under chiropractic care and believed in taking care of yourself as naturally as possible. What was most inspiring though was watching my father help others. He helped so many get out of pain. Those without hope and thought they'd tried everything. He helped them start living life again. As I watched him work, I felt a calling and a passion to do this as well.
With the exception of my immediate family, I did not get the supportive responses from others that I thought I would. I was told "Aren't you too little to be a chiropractor?" "Chiropractors are men."
That only made me more determined.
So off I went to chiropractic school and in December 1998 I became one. In fact, after joining my father's practice, I became the 1st and only female chiropractor in Van Wert.
And I am so glad I did! I love being a chiropractor. I'm following in my father's footsteps and seeing the same great results. For over 20 years I've been adjusting men, women and children of all sizes. Every now and then I still get some patients that are shocked at just how mighty my hands are.
Our services were great but we wanted to help more.
In addition to our chiropractic adjustments and nutritional muscle testing, my father started down the path of acupuncture studies. I wasn't sure what to think of it at first, but wow! I couldn't deny seeing how much it helped. The two alone were great, but adding in a third technique brought about even more healing.
But we were limited. At the time, chiropractors in Ohio were not allowed to use needles. We were restricted to only applying pressure or electrical stimulation to points.
It took time, but thankfully in 2007, Ohio changed the law. With proper completion of studies and passing of board exams, chiropractors could become certified to practice acupuncture.
It was a vigorous coarse for me to commit to, especially in the midst of having 2 little ones and taking over my father's practice after his untimely death. But I did it. In 2008 I finished my acupuncture diplomate and became certified.
And I'm so glad I did. I love acupuncture. I hope you will too!
My family life
I've been married for over 25 years to my high school sweetheart. I love the life we created here in Van Wert. We have two wonderful children. Savannah is our youngest and she is currently attending Bowling Green State University, pursuing social work and counseling. Our oldest is Tyler and he decided to become a chiropractor too. We are extremely blessed to have two great kids!
Outside the office
I'm so thankful to be healthy and active. When I'm not in the office you'll find me walking my dogs, biking, or running. In fact, I've been known to run a marathon or two!
I've come to also enjoy gardening, growing flowers and making backyard bouquets, many of which you will see in the office during summer months. I also love decorating. My husband and I completely remodeled the office ourselves in 2019.
That's my story...next, I look forward to learning yours!
Education
2006 - 2008
Diplomate of Medical Acupuncture
International Academy of Medical Acupuncture, Arizona
Education covering theoretical and clinical applications of traditional Chinese medicine.
1995 - 1998
Doctor of Chiropractic
Life University, Georgia
Graduate education covering anatomy, physiology, pathology, and radiology in-depth. Eighteen months of clinical experience in diagnosis, decision making, and treatment.
1995 - 1998
Bachelor of Science, Nutrition
Life University, Georgia
Post-secondary science education focused on chemistry, human physiology, nutrition therapy, counseling, menu planning, food preparation, and research methods.