The story of Drs. Mike and Leslie McClellan is a testament to the power of chiropractic care and the profound impact Life University has on its graduates. Both alumni of Life U, their journey through the world of Chiropractic is one marked by dedication, love and a commitment to making a difference in their community. Dr. Leslie graduated from Life U in December 1995, having previously earned her bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from Slippery Rock University. Dr. Mike graduated from Life U in 1986 after completing his undergraduate studies at Penn State University. Following his graduation, Dr. Mike moved to Rainbow City, Alabama, where he established his chiropractic practice, a place that would become their professional home for decades. Their personal and professional lives intertwined when they met at a friend’s apartment in Marietta, Georgia. Despite their unconventional and whirlwind romance, Dr. Mike proposed to Dr. Leslie on their second date; their partnership has stood the test of time. Dr. Leslie joined Dr. Mike in Rainbow City where they have practiced together for the past 28 years, serving their community with dedication and care. Throughout their careers, the McClellans have maintained a strong connection to Life U. Dr. Mike often spoke at the University, sharing his experiences and insights with students, which unbeknownst to him, included a young Dr. Leslie in her first year. This early engagement laid the foundation for their lifelong involvement with the institution. As their children grew and pursued their own paths — one of whom is currently a student at Life U — the McClellans found themselves drawn back to the University and its LIFEforce program. Their renewed involvement has been marked by consistent participation in Life Leadership and LIFEforce Weekends, along with a host of other events. Five years ago, Dr. Leslie prompted Dr. Mike to consider their legacy. This reflection led them to focus on mentoring young chiropractors, sharing the lessons they learned from their years of practice. They emphasize the importance of understanding both the clinical and business aspects of running a successful chiropractic practice. The McClellans believe that equipping new graduates with this knowledge is crucial for their success and the continued growth of the chiropractic profession. Their practice, McClellan Family Chiropractic, embodies their commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care. They care for a wide range of patients, from newborns to the elderly, and offer various techniques and care plans, including Thompson drop work, Cox distraction and activator methods. The practice is characterized by a joyful and welcoming atmosphere, underpinned by a strong organizational foundation and a dedicated team. The McClellans’ practice is not just about chiropractic adjustments; it’s about making a genuine impact on their patients’ lives. They prioritize building relationships, understanding individual needs and providing holistic care. Their team, described as both wonderful and indispensable, plays a crucial role in delivering this high standard of care. Faith is a cornerstone of the McClellans’ practice, guiding their daily interactions and treatments. Starting each day with prayer alongside their team and patients, they create an atmosphere of peace and purpose. This strong foundation of faith, combined with their expertise, has fostered countless stories of healing and transformation within their practice. Receiving the LIFEforce Impact Award is a significant honor for the McClellans. It acknowledges not only their contributions to Life University and the chiropractic profession but also their enduring commitment to their community. Despite the recognition, the McClellans remain humble, viewing the award as a validation of their hard work and dedication rather than an end goal. “We don’t do it for this (LIFEforce Impact Award) because we love so much what we do, and keeping that alive in our heart is truly what picks us up when we have had struggles or when we have dealt with things that are just not what we want to deal with at the end of the day,” shared Drs. Mike and Leslie. As the chiropractic profession continues to evolve, the McClellans are optimistic about its future. They see a growing recognition of wellness and preventive care, areas where Chiropractic can play a vital role. Their passion for Chiropractic remains as strong as ever, driven by a desire to educate, mentor and inspire the next generation of chiropractors. Drs. Mike and Leslie McClellan’s journey from Life U students to respected practitioners and mentors is powerful evidence of the impact of chiropractic care. Their story is one of love, dedication and a relentless commitment to improving the lives of their patients and the broader community. Life U is proud to count them among its distinguished alumni, and their legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of chiropractors. LIFEforce Impact Award: Celebrating a Legacy of Chiropractic Care with Dr. Mike and Dr. Leslie McClellan LIFEFORCE AWARDS 22 Alumni.life.edu | 2024
