Inspired by Community

Some time after I had proved to myself that the concept of Streamline Physio could be a lasting one, we created a mission statement be the North Star that guides all our decision making. These pillars have remained the same since Streamline’s inception: Inspired by Community, Lead with Courage, and Driven by Excellence. 

As many of you know, the last 6 weeks have been, hands down, the most challenging of my life. My family and I have been dealt a horrific blow, and our lives will never be the same. I lost my sister, while my parents lost a daughter, my niece and nephew lost a mother, my brother-in-law lost a wife and the community lost a brilliant soul. When I quit my in-network job in the fall of 2019 without a plan, I called her in a panic. It was her belief in me that encouraged me to push forward. While I was working out my non-compete out of town, she helped me form the concept that is now Streamline. We hashed out every detail together in excruciating relief. She was my (unpaid) Chief Operations Officer before I knew what that was. In short, Streamline would not be what it is today without Jess. 

Since her passing, I have had ample time to reflect on whatever silver linings might have come from this tragedy. Truthfully, the only thing that has helped me keep going has been my community. It’s not in my DNA to ask for help, and to be honest, I haven’t even known what to ask for. But the outpouring of support and love from you all has been staggering. From keeping the business afloat to daily wellness checks and texts to meals and meals and meals to beef and bacon and sourdough to late night phone calls to hugs and coffees and lunches to house and yard and garden projects to things I didn’t even know I had on my list, to gift cards and monetary donations from people I don’t even know, my community has wrapped me up in a love I didn’t know was possible. 

‘Inspired by Community’ was meant to be a pillar to drive us as physical therapists toward serving the incredible community of Madison and Verona without expecting anything in return; to push us to be the providers of choice for the athletes that choose to walk through our doors every day. And lately ‘Inspired by Community’ has taken on a new meaning for me. There will come a time when I’ll have the opportunity to pay it forward, and I will spend the rest of my life pouring love and gratitude into the community that has been holding me up. 

I know I’d never be able to do all of this alone, but I also know that with all of you, I can continue to try to make it through this chapter a day at a time. And while I wouldn’t wish this pain on anyone, I do hope that everyone has the opportunity to find their community, whatever that might be. 

TL; DR – Thank you. I didn’t get to where I am alone, and I know I’m not alone going forward. I love you all. 

-Dr. Kari