I thought it very fitting that my first blog for Trillium Family Chiropractic is for International Women’s Day! Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to help people. Entering highschool, I became very interested in the science courses, and through my own positive experiences with chiropractic, I decided to become one myself.
I have always pushed myself to continually grow and used life experiences (both positive and negative) to try and become a better version of myself. This passion and internal drive helped me get through the long days studying to become a chiropractor, and motivated me to continually grow and learn thereafter. Over the past seven years, I have had the opportunity to use my training, clinical experience, and continual learning to help enhance the quality of life of my patients (ranging from infants to seniors) naturally through chiropractic care.
Over the past few years, my interest in being a chiropractor grew to being interested in owning my own multidisciplinary practice, and becoming a leader of health and wellness in my local community. My time on the Perth BIA Board of Directors afforded me an opportunity to collaborate with many different small businesses, and piqued my interest even more in this dream. This fall, I had an opportunity to turn my dream into a reality. With the support of my family, friends, and many local small businesses (and some hard work and good luck), Trillium Family Chiropractic opened its doors on December 20th, 2021.
When reflecting on advice for other women interested in following their dreams, I am reminded of a seemingly minor conversation that had a profound impact on my life. I was in my final year of chiropractic college working in a patient setting, and was told one day by a teacher that I was being too bubbly and colourful, and that If I was ever going to be a respectable health care provider, I needed to tone it down. I agree that there are times we need to be more serious, quiet or calm, and I can certainly say I have used this advice during difficult conversations that occur sometimes as a healthcare provider. However, this comment wasn’t pertaining to a difficult conversation with a patient, more about my overall personality. I distinctly remember saying back to the teacher that if a patient had a problem with someone who is passionate, energetic, and motivated to help achieve their health goals, I wouldn’t be the right provider for this patient. For I feel the energy, enthusiasm, and motivation I carry with me everywhere I go is a part of me, and one of my biggest strengths as both a chiropractor and entrepreneur.
My advice for International Women’s Day is to be who you are, and use those unique qualities that make you “you” to help you chase and achieve your dreams. As they say, life is short, so you don’t want to waste those precious moments trying to be a version of yourself that others think you should be. I love being a chiropractor, and am excited to be a part of the Carleton Place community, and help patients achieve their health goals.
~Elizabeth Carter
