Hidden Gems: Meet Rachel Lethorn, MS, PA-C, ATC

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Lethorn.

Hi Rachel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in the heart of Texas, my journey to becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) took me from the vibrant gymnastics scene of the Lone Star State to the academic arenas of Michigan. It was during my collegiate gymnastics career at Eastern Michigan University, where I honed my skills and resilience, that my interest in medicine was sparked.

Enduring several injuries throughout my gymnastics tenure, I developed a profound appreciation for sports medicine. This passion led me to pursue a degree in Sports Medicine at Eastern Michigan University, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude, laying the foundation for my future endeavors.

Embarking on my professional journey as a Certified Athletic Trainer, I worked alongside esteemed colleagues with the USA and Australian National Sports Medicine Teams for gymnastics. These experiences fueled my desire to further my education and expand my scope of practice.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to excellence, I pursued a degree in Physician Assistant studies at Wayne State University, graduating in 2001. Embracing the flexibility inherent in the PA profession, I balanced the demands of my career with the joys of motherhood, cherishing the precious moments with my three amazing daughters.

With a diverse background in various fields of medicine, I found fulfillment in the dynamic role of a Physician Assistant, providing compassionate care to patients across a spectrum of healthcare settings. In 2017, I took a bold step forward, realizing my dream of entrepreneurship by founding Med Sports Vantage PLLC in Brighton, Michigan.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I remain deeply rooted in the gymnastics community as a National Gymnastics Judge, leveraging my expertise to uphold the standards of excellence in the sport I hold dear. In my leisure time, I find solace in strumming my guitar strings, relishing quality moments with my family, and actively engaging in service to uplift others.

As I reflect on my journey from gymnast to Physician Assistant, I am grateful for the challenges overcome, the lessons learned, and the unwavering support of my loved ones. Each chapter reminds me that passion, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning are the cornerstones of success in both personal and professional endeavors.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In life, struggles are an inevitable part of our journey, molding us into the individuals we ultimately become. For me, the true essence of joy lies in discovering how to metamorphose struggles into opportunities for growth and transformation. I started college gymnastics at Texas Women’s University and then struggled with eating disorders and illness. I began judging at that time, and unsure how things would turn out. It was decided medically I would quit competing, and then I decided to make a comeback instead. I knew I was not done yet. I moved to Michigan, trained hard, and began with EMU to compete in NCAA Division I gymnastics.  Through my experiences in healthcare, I have come to appreciate the profound impact of this mindset shift on myself and those I serve.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my practice is the invaluable feedback I receive from my patients and athletes. Time and again, they express their gratitude for a practice that truly listens, empathizes, and goes above and beyond to help them navigate their health challenges. In a world where healthcare can often feel impersonal and rushed, I take pride in creating a space where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood.

Indeed, our practice has encountered numerous cases where we’ve made a tangible difference in our patients’ lives. We’ve uncovered solutions where others saw dead ends by dedicating the necessary time and unwavering attention and refusing to succumb to obstacles. Through meticulous investigation and a commitment to digging deeper, we’ve unearthed the root causes of ailments, offering genuine health options for treatment and fostering pathways to lasting success.

In essence, our journey in healthcare is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, empathy, and perseverance. By embracing struggles as opportunities for innovation and growth, we elevate the quality of care we provide and cultivate profound connections with those we serve. As we continue this journey, I am reminded of our immense privilege and responsibility in guiding individuals toward greater health, vitality, and fulfillment.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
Nestled in the heart of Brighton, Michigan, Med Sports Vantage PLLC is a beacon of comprehensive healthcare, offering various medical services tailored to optimize your well-being. With a commitment to excellence and a personalized approach to care, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your peak performance and unlock your full potential.

At Med Sports Vantage, we believe everyone deserves to be treated like an athlete in their journey toward optimal health. Whether you’re a grandparent, an avid athlete, a dedicated coach, a nurturing parent, a seasoned professional, a weekend warrior, or simply a fan of life, our clinic supports you in enhancing your health and longevity.

Our extensive services encompass primary care and specialized medical disciplines, ensuring we comprehensively address your needs. From routine annual physicals to managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, hypertension, migraine headaches, weight loss, thyroid disease, cholesterol, and arthritis, we provide the essential foundation for maintaining health and vitality.

In addition to our primary care offerings, our clinic specializes in sports medicine, catering to athletes of all levels. Whether you require sports physicals, sport-specific evaluations, joint injections, or tailored treatment plans, our team of experts is equipped to optimize your athletic performance and facilitate your recovery journey.

Furthermore, we proudly offer functional medicine services, prioritizing identifying root causes and the prevention of illness. From hormone replacement therapy and IV vitamin infusion to cutting-edge treatments such as ozone therapy and injections, our functional medicine approach addresses the underlying factors contributing to your health concerns, empowering you to thrive from the inside out.

At Med Sports Vantage PLLC, your well-being is our utmost priority. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a passion for transformative care, we invite you to embark on a journey toward enhanced health, vitality, and longevity with us. Discover the difference between personalized, athlete-centered healthcare at Med Sports Vantage PLLC today.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Throughout my journey in healthcare, I have been blessed with the guidance and support of numerous mentors who have played pivotal roles in shaping my professional development. Their wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential have fueled my commitment to continuous learning and improvement, enabling me to provide my patients with the highest standard of care.

I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering support of my family, whose steadfast encouragement has been a constant source of strength and motivation. Their belief in my abilities and the sacrifices made on my behalf have propelled me forward, instilling a deep sense of determination and resilience.

Equally instrumental in my journey have been my dedicated coaches, who have instilled in me the values of discipline, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Their mentorship has been invaluable in cultivating the mindset necessary for success in both athletics and healthcare.

My formative years at the Athletic Training Department at Eastern Michigan University provided me with a solid foundation in sports medicine, laying the groundwork for my future endeavors in healthcare. Building upon this foundation, the Physician Assistant program at Wayne State University equipped me with the essential skills and knowledge to embark on my career as a medical practitioner.

I am immensely fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from esteemed physicians such as Dr. Shah, Dr. Brummeler, Dr. Karageanes, Dr. Jackson, Dr. Kovan, Dr. Godbole, and Dr. McIntosh, among others. Their mentorship and expertise have been invaluable in shaping my clinical practice and expanding my horizons as a healthcare professional.

Above all, I attribute my successes and achievements to the grace and guidance of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His unwavering presence has been a source of strength, inspiration, and purpose, guiding me through challenges and illuminating my path with hope and faith.

As I continue on my journey of growth and service in healthcare, I remain deeply grateful for the guidance of my mentors, the support of my loved ones, and the abiding presence of my faith. With each passing day, I am inspired to honor their legacy by striving for excellence, embracing lifelong learning, and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.MedSportsVantage.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedSportsVantage
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-lethorn-pa-c-atc-76a80530/