A Journey of Love, Service, and Triumph: The Cummings Family Story

Written on 04/18/2024
J. Hancock

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Nepessing in Lapeer, Michigan, the Cummings family resides amidst the idyllic beauty of their hometown. Dr. Teresa and Ben Cummings, whose love story began in the hallowed halls of Lapeer West High School, have since built a life steeped in love, service, and unwavering dedication to their community. Their journey, spanning over two decades of marriage and parenthood, is a testament to the enduring power of resilience, compassion, and the boundless possibilities born from the depths of love.

As high school sweethearts, Teresa and Ben's love story unfolded against the backdrop of youthful exuberance and the promise of a future filled with endless possibilities. Their shared journey, characterized by laughter, flirtation, and the tender embrace of young love, blossomed into a lifelong partnership grounded in mutual respect, unwavering support, and an unbreakable bond forged in the crucible of time.

Now, twenty years into their marital journey, Teresa and Ben stand as pillars of strength and solidarity, their love weathered and strengthened by the trials and triumphs of life's ever-unfolding tapestry. Their home, nestled just three doors down from where Teresa spent her childhood days, serves as a sanctuary of warmth and love—a testament to the enduring ties that bind them to their roots and the cherished memories that echo through the corridors of time.

Their two children, Mason and Nola, embody the essence of their parents' spirit—vibrant, compassionate, and brimming with boundless potential. Mason, a sixteen-year-old honor roll student at Lapeer High School, exudes the quiet confidence of a young man poised to leave an indelible mark upon the world. A talented swimmer and recipient of the Lightning Student-Athlete of the Month award for December, Mason's passion for athletics is matched only by his insatiable thirst for knowledge and adventure.

In his free time, Mason can often be found navigating the winding trails of Lake Nepessing aboard his beloved dirt bike, his laughter echoing across the tranquil waters as he revels in the freedom of the open road. An avid gamer and budding technophile, Mason recently undertook the challenge of hand-building his own gaming PC—a testament to his tenacity, creativity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He plans to work as a lineman for a utility company.

Meanwhile, Nola, a vivacious fourteen-year-old with a heart as boundless as her laughter, recently concluded her inaugural season of sideline and competitive cheerleading—a testament to her unwavering dedication, perseverance, and the sheer joy she exudes with every spirited cheer. A voracious reader and devoted friend, Nola's love for young adult novels and cherished moments spent with her inner circle of friends serves as a source of inspiration and solace in a world often fraught with uncertainty.

As the Cummings family eagerly anticipates the arrival of summer, they look forward to embracing the sun-kissed days and balmy nights that beckon them to the shores of Lake Nepessing. Tubing and skiing upon the crystal-clear waters of their beloved lake, the Cummings family finds solace and rejuvenation amidst the beauty of nature—a cherished tradition that serves as a testament to their enduring love for their hometown and the memories that bind them to its shores.

But beyond the confines of their familial abode lies a world brimming with opportunity and the promise of endless possibility. Dr. Teresa, a beloved local chiropractor renowned for her compassionate care and unwavering dedication to her patients' well-being, stands at the forefront of healing and holistic wellness in their community.

Together with her husband, Ben, the astute business manager of Cummings Chiropractic, Dr. Teresa oversees the day-to-day operations of their thriving practice—a testament to their shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and the pursuit of holistic healing. With over fourteen years of continuous operation, Cummings Chiropractic stands as a beacon of hope and healing in the heart of Lapeer—a testament to the enduring legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication that defines the Cummings family.

Yet, their commitment to community extends far beyond the confines of their practice, woven into the fabric of Lapeer's vibrant community through their philanthropic endeavors and unwavering dedication to service. Ben's role as Coordinator for the Lapeer County Community Collaborative (LCCC) exemplifies their shared commitment to fostering collaboration, communication, and cooperation among local agencies—a testament to their unwavering dedication to uplifting and empowering their community. Ben says, "I host one big meeting every 1st Wednesday of the month, to bring everyone together and on the same page. If you’d like to be added to that email list, contact me at ben.cummingschiro@gmail.com.”

Through his tireless efforts, Ben bridges gaps, facilitates communication, and amplifies the impact of community resources, ensuring that the needs of Lapeer County are met with efficiency, compassion, and unwavering dedication. His involvement in various local initiatives, including the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer and Camp Capability, serves as a testament to his commitment to service and the betterment of his community—a legacy that he and Teresa proudly share.

But perhaps, amidst the hustle and bustle of their professional endeavors, Dr. Teresa's upcoming book, "Beyond the Medication," stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to holistic healing and empowerment. Scheduled for release on May 1st, 2024, this transformative narrative guide offers invaluable insights and practical tools for individuals navigating chronic illness—a testament to Dr. Teresa's compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to her patients' well-being.

Through her book, Dr. Teresa seeks to empower individuals facing chronic illness with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to thrive beyond their diagnosis—a beacon of hope and inspiration in a world often fraught with uncertainty and despair. Her compassionate approach to healing and holistic wellness serves as a guiding light for all who seek solace, support, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Embark on a Journey to Thrive Beyond Chronic Illness: "Beyond the Medication"
Dr. Teresa is a much-loved, popular local chiropractor and seasoned expert in pain management and chronic illness, and she is thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of her new book, "Beyond the Medication: How to Survive and Thrive with Chronic Illness." This transformative narrative guide is set to help individuals facing all kinds of chronic illness with usable insights and a
roadmap to facing life beyond a diagnosis and prescription of a medication. About the Book: "Beyond the Medication" is a compassionate and comprehensive guide designed for those navigating the complexities of chronic autoimmune disease and other life-altering conditions. This book goes beyond just the prescription of a medication. It offers practical solutions, emotional support, and a holistic approach to physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Key Features of the book:
Clear Guidance: Usable information to make informed decisions about health and lifestyle.
Empowerment: Strategies to advocate for oneself, communicate with healthcare teams, and navigate the complexities of chronic conditions.
Holistic Wellness: Exploration of physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual strategies complementing medical treatment.
Resilient Stories: Inspiring narratives of triumph over challenges, proving that a fulfilling life is within reach.
Practical Tools: Exercises and resources to overcome obstacles, set goals, track progress, and celebrate victories.

Author's Quote:
"I often take the extra time in my chiropractic practice, after patients tell me they've just received a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Functional Neurological Disorder. I will share insights I've gained through my own journey of living with a chronic illness. I explain to my patients the importance of dietary changes, hydration, physical activity, and, in some cases, counseling to help them adapt to life with a chronic condition. Sadly, for many of my patients, this information is entirely new, which breaks my heart. Medications are only the starting point for most chronic disorders. While medications can aid your body's healing, slow down degeneration, and protect tissues and organs, lifestyle changes are equally important in the journey to wellness. I've written this book for those who've recently been given a diagnosis of chronic illness. You've been prescribed medication to assist you, but you seek more comprehensive guidance to lead the fullest life possible. This book is for you." 

About the Author: Dr. Teresa Cummings D.C. compassionately melds extensive medical expertise with heartfelt simplicity in her writing, enabling readers to seamlessly integrate transformative concepts. Armed with a world-class medical education and a wealth of clinical experience, she intimately understands the challenges of chronic illness through her own journey. This unique vantage point equips her to effectively shepherd readers toward enhancing their health outcomes and overall well-being. She is honored to have been recognized with the esteemed Presidential Scholar Award, achieving her doctorate Magna Cum Laude from Palmer Chiropractic College, and induction into the Chiropractic Honor Society. Additionally, she proudly holds the title of her hometown's People's Choice favorite chiropractor, a testament to her commitment to the community she cherishes and serves.

Testimonial: Amy H. “I just wanted to give you an update on my progress through the book. It’s taking longer than expected primarily because it’s making me emotional. By chapter 3 I felt called out and seen in a way that I was unprepared for… it’s a very compelling read. But also uncomfortable in that way that is unwelcome yet required for meaningful growth. I’ve cried, I’ve had revelations. I’ve set it down a lot, but I also keep picking it back up. I don’t think I was prepared for it to affect me so deeply.”

The book will be available for purchase on Amazon and in the office of Cummings Chiropractic. To connect with the author, for media inquiries, interviews, or review copies of "Beyond the Medication," please contact: Dr. Teresa Cummings, D.C., BeyondTheMedication@gmail.com, 810-728-1881, Dr.TeresaCummings.com.

Other exhilarating news and located along the bustling thoroughfare of Nepessing Street, the new location of Cummings Chiropractic coming soon at 477 W. Nepessing beckons with promise and possibility. Set between Lola's Salon and Exit Realty, the vibrant downtown ambiance serves as the perfect backdrop for their expanded practice. With spacious accommodations and state-of-the-art facilities, this new chapter in their journey promises to usher in a new era of healing, community, and holistic wellness. Amidst the flurry of construction, anticipation mounts as the Cummings family eagerly awaits the opportunity to welcome patients old and new to their revitalized space, where healing and hope converge in the heart of Lapeer's bustling downtown district. 

Ben says, "We’re excited to announce Cummings Chiropractic is moving Downtown! Dr. Teresa and Dr. Ron Boggs are both very busy and popular. Also, we have three really excellent massage therapists, and an outstanding receptionist. We are so grateful to the members of the Oddfellows Hall for inviting us to relocate Downtown. This is a fine opportunity for us to add a third chiropractor, as well as additional space to host Yoga or Tai Chi classes. Construction is happening now.”

As the Cummings family embarks on the next chapters of their journey, they do so with hearts full of gratitude, love, and unwavering dedication to their community. Rooted in the values of compassion, integrity, and resilience, they inspire all who have the privilege of crossing their path—a testament to the enduring power of love, service, and the boundless possibilities born from the depths of the human spirit.

Through their unwavering commitment to family, community, and service, the Cummings family remains a shining example of love, compassion, and the triumph of the human spirit—a beacon of light and love in a world often in need of both. As they continue to navigate life's journey with grace, courage, and unwavering dedication, they remind us that, in the tapestry of life, it is love that binds us together, service that uplifts us, and resilience that propels us forward into the limitless possibilities of tomorrow.

Photo by Lasting Memories Photography