A hands-on approach to strengthening lives and connecting community
Born into a family of entrepreneurs, Mecca Fayad knew that one day she would run her own business. In 2014, she obtained her Chiropractic Doctorate and worked at a clinic in Edmonton for several years, before establishing her own clinic in 2022. We spoke with Dr. Fayad about her journey to chiropractic care, how harnessing the power of social media boosted her business, and what healthy lifestyle practices she recommends to make the best of this winter season.
What drew you to chiropractic care as a career?
I always wanted to heal without the use of drugs or surgery, and I wanted a flexible career as a woman and one where I could also make a difference in the community. In opening up my own clinic, I was able to give back to the community not only with my hands but in other ways, too.
I also happen to work with some of the top athletes in the city which seems crazy to me, especially coming from a very traditional family where sports wasn’t a thing that we did.
How did that come about?
I got a biochemistry degree at the University of Alberta (at the time, I wanted to be a dentist). I took my aptitude test and I worked for a dentist, but I just couldn’t see myself in that position, so I pivoted and took a big risk—I moved to San Jose, California, to get my Chiropractic Doctorate.
On any given night (in San Jose), you can watch any college or professional sporting event you want— basketball, football, hockey. I found a huge community there and that’s when I started to really get into sports.
When I moved home, I did my preceptorship with one of the top sports chiropractors in the city, Dr. Allan Jeffels. He worked with the Edmonton Elks and he saw a lot of NHL players, so that sort of filtered into my life.
I do a lot of athletic performance, but I also specialize in active release, a technique that doesn’t involve cracking your neck—which is the primary reason why a lot of people don’t go to a chiropractor.
Your online following has grown exponentially over the years and seems to be a place where you come alive and truly enjoy what you’re doing. Was this always part of the plan?
I’ve always had a knack for drama and fine art; my Instagram is an outlet for my creativity.
When I first started as a chiropractor, I was new to the city and didn’t have patients at all. I created an Instagram page because I wanted to package chiropractic care in a relatable way; one that wasn’t so scary or intimidating for people.
It’s never been my goal to have a million followers. If I stuck to one niche— fashion or recipes or just chiropractic rehab—I would probably have a lot more followers, but that’s not the full me. I’m okay with having fewer followers and posting exactly who I am, rather than having a million followers and not being true to myself.
Your job has you travelling a lot, but your love of Edmonton is clear. What is your favourite thing about our city?
Edmonton is a community that feels very connected. I know a lot of people say what makes Edmonton great is the people, and I think that definitely holds true which makes going out, being social, being at events, and getting connected quite easy. I think what a lot of people love about Edmonton is just how special the people are. Being born and raised here, the community in Edmonton was something that was instilled early on. I have always felt that this community gave a lot. Now it’s time to return that. So, getting involved is, I think, vital.
I’m currently volunteering with Wings of Providence (with their wingman campaign). It’s about raising funds for an organization that helps people fleeing domestic violence. When they launched the wingman campaign, it was to get a little more involvement from men which I think is pretty vital, because sometimes you don’t know if it’s “your issue” or not. This campaign was really good at raising the awareness that anybody can get involved because it’s everybody’s issue. Edmonton is a great community of philanthropy and people doing cool charity work and events.
How do you relax and let go in such a connected career?
I actually genuinely enjoy the hustle and bustle. I do love seeing the front line, if you want to call it that—visiting clients; people who are actually using the products. Maybe that’s a start—actually enjoying what it is that you do.
When I’m out there, it’s not just a grind, or a trip that I dread. I’m getting cool feedback. I’m seeing fun clients. Of course, I also have to stay regular with my hobbies. I go to the gym and that’s usually where I can just shut off and blast some jams in my ear. Golf is also great. That season is coming to an end so, indoors, it’ll be tennis. Now that hockey season is back on, I will also kick back to watch some sports.
I do enjoy it all and hopefully it’s not too cliché. I know the saying is “work life balance”, but I kind of combat that concept a little bit—I say it’s all one. I enjoy it all and it all works together, right? I try to make everything something that is enjoyable. I guess it all folds into just living a life that you don’t necessarily need a break from.
Can you share some of your favourite luxuries?
Food, in general, is a luxury item—like, good food. Going to the butcher and getting a beautiful cut of meat; buying the Malden sea salt; going to the nice restaurant. Food and experiences [related to that] would be one of my biggest luxuries.
Next, accessories: I have to give a shout-out to Poppy Barley. They make a wonderful product and they’re local! If you have a great pair of shoes or a great bag, it can make your outfit. If I’m using an item many times, then I don’t mind investing more.
And lastly, loving where you live. I’m okay with paying a little more to be in a neighbourhood that I love or spending a bit more on my house to make it cozy. Family and community are important to me, so I love when people come to my house and feel comfortable. A beautiful candle or pretty plates and cups—those things feel very luxurious to me, and they help me establish a safe and comfortable home for guests to feel welcome.
Places To Be
See this month's local flavours, products, and services.
