WCA Summit flexes chiropractic muscle in Capitol

Candle-lighting tribute to O'Dell event highlight

Once again, the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) proved it has gained political clout in the U.S. Congress. The organization -- dubbed the 'muscle of chiropractic' by one member -- brought its message to the nation's capitol for a third season, safeguarding its unique position in the health care system.

Members kept more than 100 appointments with their Senators and Representatives, who benefited from hearing about chiropractic from passionate, dedicated, conservative doctors of chiropractic.

The WCA International Summit, held in Washington, D.C., May 1-3, kicked off with a Legislative Day. Upon registering, doctors were given instructions on how to make appointments with their lawmakers, and background information on various important topics of discussion. Individually or in state-wide contingents, chiropractors met with legislators to discuss issues vital to the survival and growth of subluxation-based chiropractic.

"The WCA summit was filled with chiropractic warriors not afraid to fight for, protect and promote our chiropractic principles," said Terry A. Rondberg, D.C., WCA president. "The WCA Summit was filled with passion, purpose and commitment."

The next two days were packed with excitement, education, and motivation as nearly two dozen top chiropractic speakers offered sessions ranging from philosophy to research and from practice management to techniques.

The speakers were all chosen for their dedication to subluxation-based chiropractic, and their willingness to speak out in its defense.

"The truth will always be the truth," declared Dr. Rondberg. "WCA members know we must guard and protect our profession from the enemies within and our principles are worth honoring and defending. WCA members will fight for and sacrifice for these great truths because we know what a treasure we have and hold dear in our hearts. The WCA members who came to Washington understand clearly the purpose of our profession."

One highlight of the event was a special tribute to Dr. Clair O'Dell, a true chiropractic pioneer and role model for an entire generation of chiropractors.

Graduating from Palmer College in 1936, he went on to earn his Philosopher of Chiropractic degree in 1957 from Logan. The list of Dr. O'Dell's professional activities seems impossibly long to be the credentials of just one man, including membership in such organizations as the International Chiropractors Association, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), the International Basic Technique Board, the Michigan Academy of Chiropractic, the United Straight Chiropractors of Michigan, and many others.

O'Dell served on the 12-man executive committee leading to the formation of the ACA, and was involved in the struggle to pass chiropractic licensing laws in Massachusetts, New York, and Oklahoma. He created the World Queen of Posture and Physical Fitness agent and was a guest of President Johnson at the White House in 1977. Yet, O'Dell is equally proud of having sponsored more than 100 young men and women to study chiropractic.

Honored repeatedly by various organizations as "Chiropractor of the Year," and "Outstanding Chiropractor," O'Dell's place in chiropractic history is assured, as is his place in the hearts and minds of his fellow chiropractors.

As a member of the WCA International Board of Governors, O'Dell's courage and dedication have been a model for all members, who paid tribute to their esteemed colleague in a poignant and stirring Summit ceremony. WCA leaders and members lit candles and spoke in praise of the man who has given chiropractic so much.

Also honored at the Summit was Joseph Flesia, D.C., recipient of the WCA's 2003 "Outstanding Service" award. Unable to attend due to health problems, his protégé and successor in Renaissance International, Kevin Pallis, D.C., accepted the award on his behalf. Dr. Pallis' heartfelt acceptance speech reminded the assembly of the incalculable contributions Dr. Flesia has made to chiropractic.

"Over the years, Dr. Joe has received hundreds of various awards," he noted. "However, he told me this one will be displayed in his home where only two others are displayed... Just before I left, Dr. Joe -- with disappointment heavy on his heart at not being able to be here -- told me that the chiropractic advocates in this room must be the warriors to protect and promulgate the purity of the chiropractic vision for future generations. He said, 'Kevin, the audience at this awards ceremony will be filled with the men and women who have the strength of purpose, the intellect and the commitment to the big vision of the true chiropractic warrior to take our profession to the place in the sun it so rightfully deserves.'"

Pallis also mentioned that, after The Chiropractic Journal published a special article about Flesia, "Mail, telephone calls and electronic letters poured in and within a few weeks, Dr. Flesia received thousands of responses wishing him well and thanking him for his contributions to chiropractic. Amazing!"

Although attendance at the Summit was affected by the Iraq war and fears of terrorism, nothing could diminish the excitement and enthusiasm of the doctors who did participate.

"I completely enjoyed and was inspired toward even more greatness in my life and practice after arriving home from the Summit," said Randy Moze, D.C., of Georgia. "I am honored and proud to be part of the WCA and have found a mentor and a new friend in (Dr. Rondberg)."

Stephanie Grenier, D.C., echoed his praise. "The WCA Summit in Washington, D.C., was so productive and so revealing! Every time we go we accomplish so much, and, at the same time, realize how much more there is to be done," she noted.

Dr. Grenier, who serves as mayor of Auburn, Georgia, and on the WCA International Board of Governors, has a particular interest in the political work of the organization. "The more chiropractic warriors out there talking to their lawmakers, the more we can influence their decisions to make appropriate legislation for the public's freedom of choice in health care. It is up to us, if we don't do it, others will take it from us and the public will lose the right to choose conservative health and wellness care for their families through chiropractic," she stated.

Most doctors are already looking forward to the 2004 event, scheduled for April 29 - May 1. "The  2003 WCA Summit was the best event of my chiropractic career to date," said Madeline Behrendt, D.C., chair of the WCA's  Council on Women's Health and associate editor of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. "What an exciting group of talent, heart and commitment is attracted to the WCA. Every person in that room is a leader, and you invite them all (and me) to express our talents in support of subluxation-based chiropractic. How awesome! I look forward to 2004, and will work to amplify the attendance at the event."