After more than 30 years at the helm, the owners of Lloydminster Chiropractic Centre and Midwest Physiotherapy are stepping into new roles — as employees.
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Dr. Lee Atkinson and Dr. Kevin McEachern have sold the centre to Dr. Julia Bielech and Dr. Sydney Christie and will remain on staff for the next three years.
The Lloydminster Chiropractic Centre was established in 1968 by Dr. Orville Berg. Dr. Fred Murray joined the practice in 1972 and later purchased it. Atkinson came on board in 1994 and became owner in 1997.
McEachern joined the clinic in 2000 and assumed a part-ownership role two years later. Over the years, the clinic has grown significantly and now serves thousands of patients each year.
“It’s great to get two local chiropractors, Julia and Sydney,” said Atkinson, noting the pair began working at the clinic about four years ago.
“We know them, we’ve seen their quality of care. They’re excellent, capable young chiropractors who want to take the reins,” he said. “It’s wonderful we can hand it over to people we know are that capable and who will keep a local touch.”
“Aside from the fact we’re now employees and not owners, nothing else has changed,” added McEachern. “We’ll be here for the next three years. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
For the clinic’s new owners, the transition marks an exciting milestone.
“It’s super exciting, and I feel honoured — especially with a business that’s so well-known in the community and has been so successful,” said Christie, a graduate of the University of Western States in Portland, Ore.
“I feel that, too. I’m proud to be able to continue the legacy of this clinic,” added Bielech, who studied at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. “It has such a strong foundation in this community. It’s a very proud moment for both of us.”
Both new owners said their motivation for entering the profession stemmed from a desire to help others.
“I’ve always wanted to help people, specifically with their pain,” said Bielech. “It’s nice to be able to help people.”
“I grew up knowing I wanted to help people,” added Christie. “Having a background in sports drew me to this profession.”
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