As I begin retirement, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I've had serving as a doctor and clinic owner in Albuquerque since 1981. When we first arrived in New Mexico we never could have imagined the profound impact this wonderful community would have on our family.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of interacting with many hundreds of patients, each with their own unique stories and challenges. Some of you have been with me for years and are more like family than clients, but every patient has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

One of the best compliments any patient can pay a doctor is referring loved ones for care, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence which you have expressed in your willingness to refer family, friends and acquaintances.

Helping people with their health is very personal, and the fact that people have trusted me with such an intimate and sacred responsibility has always weighed on me. We have endeavored to provide a service to each patient that is individual and caring. I have always tried to treat patients the way I would want to be treated.

As I pass the torch to Dr. Johnson, I want to assure you that he possesses the qualities of a skilled and compassionate physician. He cares deeply about his patients and has a legitimate interest in helping them achieve their health goals. Dr. Johnson upholds the highest standards of professional practice and integrity. I hope that my patients will continue to come in and support Dr. Johnson as he builds on the clinical services we have been developing and sharing since 1981. Functional medicine is a multifaceted and challenging field, and I have no doubt that Dr. Johnson will bring a refreshing perspective as he continues offering the clinical services we have developed. I have no doubt he will build upon what we have started and will be an incredible resource for natural health for the people in our area.

To Dr. Johnson, I offer this advice: stay current in your areas of specialty, never rest on your laurels, and continually improve your art through learning and study. Always strive to be better at what you do and never forget that above all else, you are here to serve.

Being a physician is a privilege and a very high calling, and I am grateful to have been able to serve the people of New Mexico and other parts of the country.

As for my retirement, I am still adjusting to life without the practice. Both Andrea and I plan to dedicate more time to serve in other areas besides health care, visit family more often, and develop skills and talents that have had to be put on hold until now. We will probably do a little more traveling as well.

Finally, I want to thank all our patients for the privilege of helping each of you in your quest for better health. I encourage my patients to continue with Dr. Johnson, as we share very similar philosophies of care. I assure you that the quality of care will not diminish in my absence.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Dr. Vernon Redd and Andrea Redd