Today we’d like to introduce you to David Fireside.
David, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was in sales for the earlier part of my career. I had finished college and spent time serving in the Israeli Army followed by travelling. When I came back to the states, it was natural for my personality to go into sales, where I focused a great bit of time in financial services. My wife is a creative, and asked me if I loved my job. When I responded, “who loves a job?” and she said “I do, and so should you.” I knew it was time to take another look at what I was doing with my life. While I had intended to go to veterinary school, I knew at this point in my life with a wife, kid, and a mortgage, that going back to school for another four years wasn’t in the cards. But I wanted to do something that involved health, science, and people. My wife asked me if I wanted to go back to school, the next day I was studying for my medical school entrance exam.
Great, 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?
My wife supported the family while I was in school. I built my business from scratch. Having a strong sales and marketing background, I hit the ground running immediately after graduation. I graduated at the top of my class. I was very fortunate to secure a job with a prominent medical practice in the River North neighborhood. I gained valuable experience and soon had a devoted client base. One year out of school, I was named ‘Massage Therapist of the Year’ by the American Massage Therapy Association, Illinois chapter. It wasn’t long before I realized that I am now doing something I love, I excel at and I am happy.
Please tell us about Suburban Decompression.
My company is called, Suburban Decompression, specializing in clinical massage therapy. My focus is in addressing the cause of pain, and how to manage and make changes that are at the root cause. I work with doctors and other medical professionals who look at massage as part of the overall practice of pain management, and I partner with them to offer a more holistic approach. My work is focused on the cause and effect of what is going on with their bodies, whether it’s from body mechanics from a job, an accident, or illness. I take a comprehensive intake of clients to understand what is going on in order to treat my patients. I am Board Certified (highest certification available) and have a national medical provider I.D. My patients include quadriplegics, cancer patients, MS patients, joint repair/replacement, and those recovering from serious accidents who need ongoing care. Often times, this includes making house calls due to their limited mobility to get the relief they need. They also include athletes and everyday individuals who view massage therapy as a part of their health and wellness regime.
There are a number of proud moments, but one that stands out is being recognized as Massage Therapist of The Year by The American Massage Therapy Association. Writing the guidelines for massage therapists for a major health and wellness corporation comes in a close second.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
The time spent camping with my family. This ranged from canoe trips in Michigan to tent camping in the Everglades. I have continued this ‘tradition’ with my wife, daughter, and dogs. It is time we cherish together. It affords us time to connect with nature and each other. We have a ‘no technology’ rule while we camp that allows the family to be more present and engaged.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2333 Waukegan Road
Suite 120 Bannockburn, IL - Website: www.suburbandecompression.com
- Phone: 773-805-3473
- Email: david@suburbandecompression.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suburban-Decompression-Who-still-makes-house-calls-We-do-182538181780652/
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