Hello, OAP community!
What most of you do not know is that since starting at OAP in August, I’ve had the privilege of treating over 500 patients and providing more than 1,000 treatments! In light of this big milestone, I wanted to take the time to express my heartfelt gratitude for the warmth and support you have shown me throughout my journey as a Black, Trans Nonbinary acupuncturist at our clinic.
To start, I want to thank those of you who seek my care because of our shared identity as people of color. Your trust and confidence in being treated by someone who looks like you, someone who understands the complexities of your experience, fills me with a profound sense of appreciation. When you walk through the door, I hope you feel an immediate sense of comfort and relatability. Our interactions remind me of the importance of representation and the power it holds.
To my queer family, thank you for embracing me as an out and proud Trans person. Your decision to seek my care stems from a deep understanding of the significance of shared lived experiences. In my presence, I hope you feel a sense of security and affirmation, knowing that your identities are celebrated, and your stories are heard. This connection is a testament to the strength of our community and the support we provide one another.
I am also grateful for those of you who come to me without regard for my identity or background. Your decision to seek my care is based solely on the positive experiences we have shared, the rapport we have built, and the effective treatments I provide. Whether it’s my gentle needling technique, my patience, or simply the vibe you appreciate, your loyalty and trust in my abilities mean the world to me.
To my colleagues, thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to creating an environment where every patient feels welcomed and respected. Although we may not always cross paths, your presence is felt through the structures you have built to ensure our collective success and the seamless delivery of care to the thousands of individuals who walk through our doors. Your skills as acupuncturists are so amazing! (Which I will brag about and go into more details during another post).
This diversity within my patient base is a testament to the welcoming and inclusive environment we’ve fostered at OAP. Our clinic is a tapestry of individuals from all walks of life, united by a shared commitment to health and well-being. Whether you’re a long-time patient, a first-time visitor, or someone who has yet to experience our services, you are part of our community.
While we, as practitioners, bring our knowledge and skills to the table, it is you, our patients, who breathe life into the clinic. Like the harmonious balance of yin and yang, we are interdependent – each contributing our unique strengths to foster an environment of healing and growth.
As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to connect with and care for over 500 of you. This community has welcomed me with open arms, and I am excited to continue growing, learning, and reaching new milestones together.
To the next 500 patients and beyond, I look forward to meeting you, embracing your stories, and continuing to create a space where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.
Thank you, OAP community, for your unwavering support and for making our clinic a place of belonging for all.
With gratitude,
Devon