Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Anne Etonga, DC.
Dr. Anne, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Becoming a chiropractor wasn’t initially part of my plan. To some, it might seem unconventional, but I truly believe fate led me here. Originally, I aimed to pursue a career as an Orthopedic Surgeon, but I soon realized I was on that path for the wrong reasons. Growing up in an African household, the pressure to pursue traditional professions like doctor, lawyer, pharmacist, accountant, nurse, or engineer was immense. Many children of immigrants can relate. While I understood my parents’ aspirations—they worked tirelessly to provide for us—I felt overwhelmed by the expectations.
Post-college, after attending The Pennsylvania State University, affectionately known as PENN STATE or “HAPPY VALLEY” to us alumni, I made a difficult decision. Despite having completed Caldwell University’s pre-medical post-baccalaureate certificate program, I knew the hospital environment and surgical procedures weren’t for me. However, my desire to work in healthcare and help others persisted.
After discussions with my school counselor, I explored alternative medical paths that didn’t involve medical school. Among the options presented—Podiatry, Nursing, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)—Chiropractic stood out, though I admittedly knew little about it at the time. Call it fate or the universe’s guidance, something drew me to this field. Intrigued, I researched further and took a leap of faith by applying to Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in San Jose, CA, despite never having set foot in California.
In 2020, following the most challenging program of my life—filled with tears, sleepless nights, anxiety, and the added challenge of being the only black person in my class—I graduated with a Doctorate in Chiropractic and transitioned into Dr. Anne Etonga, DC. Initially planning to settle permanently in California, I soon realized it wasn’t the ideal environment for me. The lack of community and representation exacerbated my impostor syndrome.
Upon moving to Atlanta, I immediately felt a sense of belonging. Starting my practice, One Eighty Chiropractic, felt like the right move. The diverse community and seeing successful business owners who looked like me provided the support and inspiration I needed. My impostor syndrome dissipated, and I thrived, both personally and professionally. Moving to Atlanta was undoubtedly the best decision for my mental health and business growth.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey to this point has been far from smooth; it’s been a colossal struggle. Along the way, I encountered numerous obstacles that demanded my resilience and fortitude. Reflecting on those challenges, I realize they’ve shaped my character and bolstered my determination.
Raised by my mother as a single parent alongside my older brother, our family faced tumultuous times, especially after my father’s passing in 2011 due to complications from type 2 diabetes. Despite his initial success as an attorney, his descent into alcoholism cast a shadow over our lives, leading to turmoil and eventually divorce.
My mother, a beacon of strength, toiled tirelessly, working long hours to provide for us. Often, she had to make tough choices, sacrificing her own needs to ensure we had everything required for a decent life. Our familial struggles were compounded by the alienation we felt from our extended family due to our status as the “black sheep.”
Despite the adversities, my brother pursued a path in accounting, while I embarked on a journey through higher education, eventually becoming a chiropractor. The road to achieving this dream was fraught with challenges. As the sole black student in my chiropractic class and one of very few in the entire school, feelings of impostor syndrome and inadequacy gnawed at me constantly.
Balancing two jobs to make ends meet while tackling the rigorous curriculum of chiropractic school pushed me to the brink. Failures and setbacks became familiar companions, accompanied by doubts about my own worth and capabilities. The overwhelming pressure of being a minority in a predominantly white, male-dominated field exacerbated my anxiety, compelling me to constantly justify my presence.
The ultimate blow came when I repeatedly failed my board exams, tempting me to abandon my aspirations. But I refused to surrender. Through unwavering determination, prayer, and relentless effort, I persevered, eventually conquering my exams and obtaining my chiropractic license.
From there, I embarked on a career marked by ceaseless dedication and hard work. Starting at The Joint Chiropractic and later gaining invaluable experience in various private practices, I absorbed knowledge about running my own practice. Today, as the proud owner of One Eighty Chiropractic in Atlanta, GA, I stand as a testament to the resilience that drives success.
The journey, though arduous, has taught me invaluable lessons. Success isn’t measured by Instagram likes or superficial accolades; it’s forged through adversity and relentless determination. As I continue to grow my practice, I remain steadfast in my commitment to surmount any obstacle that crosses my path. Quitting is not an option; perseverance is my mantra.
As you know, we’re big fans of One Eighty Chiropractic. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Established on January 11, 2022, under the leadership and ownership of Dr. Anne Etonga, DC, One Eighty Chiropractic has swiftly garnered recognition, prominently featured in respected publications like VoyageATL Magazine, ShoutOut Atlanta Magazine, and CanvasRebel Magazine. These features showcase our distinctive holistic approach to chiropractic care, emphasizing our dedication to exceptional health and wellness solutions.
In a brief span, our practice has been honored to collaborate closely with distinguished celebrities and accomplished athletes, positively influencing their overall well-being and performance. This collaboration is a testament to the trust placed in our expertise and the transformative impact we bring to their health journeys.
Our commitment is evident in the integration of diverse physiotherapy techniques, including percussive soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy, CBD therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, red light therapy, and cupping therapy, alongside Graston soft tissue therapy.
These achievements reinforce our unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier care, solidifying our position as a leading provider of holistic chiropractic services. As we continue to expand our influence and impact a diverse clientele, we remain steadfast in upholding the standards of excellence that have propelled these accomplishments.
At One Eighty Chiropractic, our focus extends beyond merely alleviating symptoms. We believe in fostering a proactive approach to health by emphasizing wellness and preventive care.
By integrating advanced techniques, patient education, and personalized treatment plans, we strive to optimize each individual’s health and empower them to lead fulfilling lives.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I owe a debt of gratitude to numerous individuals who have played pivotal roles in my journey to success. Firstly, my heartfelt appreciation goes to my mother, whose unwavering support and belief in me during challenging times provided the foundation for my resilience. Her sacrifices and tireless efforts to ensure my brother and I had everything we needed instilled in me a strong work ethic and determination to succeed.
My closest friends and partner have also been invaluable pillars of support throughout my endeavors. Their encouragement, understanding, and unwavering belief in my abilities bolstered my spirits during moments of self-doubt and adversity. Their presence reminded me that I was never alone in my struggles and that success is often a collective effort.
In addition to my personal support network, I am indebted to the mentors who have guided and inspired me along the way. Dr. Goldi Jacques-Maynes, the visionary behind Golden Chiropractic in Aptos, played a pivotal role during my preceptorship. Her expertise and insights into running a successful business were invaluable, providing me with practical knowledge that laid the groundwork for my own venture.
Similarly, Dr. Jeanette Yvonne Lomori, DC a distinguished professor and successful chiropractor, served as a beacon of inspiration. Her passion for her craft and her evident joy in her profession left an indelible impression on me. Observing her mastery of both chiropractic care and business management fueled my own aspirations and provided me with invaluable guidance.
Lastly, I am profoundly grateful to my Uncle Andy, whose unwavering love and support served as a constant source of strength. His presence in my life, especially during the difficult period following my father’s passing, provided me with a sense of belonging and unconditional love. His belief in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself, was a guiding light that helped me navigate through challenging times.
To all these remarkable individuals, I extend my deepest appreciation. Their collective support, guidance, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional growth. Without their unwavering belief in me, my journey to success would have been far more daunting.
Last but not least, I wouldn’t have made it this far without my faith in God.
Pricing:
- Initial Wellness Chiropractic Adjustment: $180
- Wellness Chiropractic Adjustment Only: $65
- Wellness Chiropractic Adjustment + Therapy: From $85+
- House Calls: From $190+
- Personal Injury/Motor Vehicle Accident
Contact Info:
- Website: www.oneeightychiropractic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechirobae/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550923803586
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/anneetonga
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/oneeightychiropractic/
Image Credits
creative vanguard photography
