Doctorate of Palmer Pride
Steven Simmons, D.C. (Main, ’99) wasn’t in pain or injured. He wasn’t even searching for his career path. Back in 1993, he was merely playing football and looking to graduate high school with plans of going directly into business school. But, when a teammate injured himself, Dr. Simmons inadvertently found his career path: chiropractic.
At first, he didn’t know a thing about chiropractic care so he went to the library to learn all he could. As it turns out, B.J. Palmer’s core chiropractic philosophy fit Dr. Simmon’s personality and way of life so perfectly that it was absolutely love and passion at first sight.
In doing his research, there was a common theme throughout the literature. Dr. Simmons noticed that nearly everything pointed back to Palmer College; D.D., B.J., and David Palmer family had overtaken the literature. He was astounded to discover that they were the founders and early developers of the chiropractic profession and that current generations were still around to tell the story. At this point, there was really no question as to where he’d attend school, even after the flyers from other schools started rolling in.
He felt called not only to this profession but to Palmer’s main campus. It was as though he was guided in that direction, “I didn’t understand the importance or significance of what I was choosing at the time but now I feel so connected to it and all things Palmer.”
Today, he tells anyone, especially those considering chiropractic school, that it’s the most rewarding career path and he can’t imagine life without it.
Originally from a small farm town in Michigan and born of a young, struggling mother, becoming a doctor was something he’d never dreamed of. But Dr. Simmons feels strongly that it’s a blessing to help with his hands. He recalls a non-verbal boy who began making sounds after his first adjustment and eventually starting talking. He hasn’t forgotten the countless patients who got rid of their walking canes or wheelchairs, either. Undoubtedly, he gets chills overhearing current patients sharing with prospective patients the very information he’s taught them over the years.
Palmer gave him the tools to open his clinic right out of school. It was in February of 2000 and, to his surprise, he did very well. “I put a few ads out, the community responded and we’ve been rocking and rolling ever since,” he said.
Palmer memorabilia lines the office walls, from the epigrams reminiscent of those displayed around the Palmer campus (such as “healing takes time”) to the paint color on the walls (Palmer purple)!
Dr. Simmons’ Palmer pride is contagious. He has referred more than 20 students to Palmer. To him, it’s as simple as putting shoes on or breathing; it’s something he has to do and wouldn’t consider not doing.
“We can walk the same streets that D.D., B.J. and David Palmer walked. It’s like nowhere else in the world. When I’m back on campus, I feel like I’m home,” he said. “Palmer continues to give and I will always want to give back.” To Dr. Simmons, there are only three chiropractic schools worth considering: Palmer Main, Palmer West and Palmer Florida.
A lucky father, his two older children have chosen to follow in his footsteps. They’re both in their first trimester at Palmer’s main campus and both chose it on their own, as though they wouldn’t have had it any other way! He encourages all Palmer students to “take it all in, absorb it, love it and get exposed to everything and every technique you can.” Above all else, love what you do while heeding B.J. Palmer’s Rule #9, “Don’t take yourself too damn seriously.”
Visit www.palmer.edu/alumni/get-involved/ to learn how you can impact the future of the chiropractic profession by mentoring and referring future students.
The Palmer Advancement Office advances Palmer College’s standing as The Trusted Leader in Chiropractic Education® by developing meaningful relationships with its alumni and friends, and raising funds to support the College’s mission. Connect with us today at palmer.edu/alumni.
