Throughout my career as a Physician Assistant specializing in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Urgent Care, I recognized a troubling pattern: patients frequently returned with persistent symptoms, often without receiving lasting relief. The solutions offered seemed temporary, leaving many of us feeling frustrated. This realization deepened as I explored functional medicine, where I found a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. I became convinced that there was a better way to promote true healing.

My journey into functional medicine was gradual and sparked by various experiences. In my Urgent Care setting, I often witnessed patients returning with ongoing health problems despite receiving conventional treatments. It became disheartening to hear responses like, "We've done all we can do," which felt dismissive of their struggles. As friends and family sought my guidance for their health challenges, I found myself feeling increasingly stifled by the limitations of traditional medicine.

The turning point came just before the pandemic, as I grew increasingly frustrated with the conventional approach to complex health issues. The expectation of quick fixes often clashed with the reality of multi-system illnesses that begged for a more integrative perspective.

One significant influence in my journey was Dr. Teresa Birkmeier, a Family Medicine doctor who later opened a Functional Medicine practice. As someone deeply curious about functional medicine, I embraced the opportunity to work alongside her. Dr. B's focus on chronic inflammation and its root causes ignited my passion, as I learned that the body has an intrinsic ability to heal itself when given the proper support.