Leslie Van Wie’s journey at Veterinary Healthcare Associates (VHA) began in 2017 when she joined the Boarding department. It was here that she was introduced to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), sparking a fascination with the science behind the treatment. As she witnessed patients recovering from various ailments, her passion grew, leading her to train as an HBOT operator. Eventually, Leslie transitioned to the ICU department to conduct more HBOT dives, later joining the internal medicine and oncology team to work closely with Dr. Nations. “Watching cancer patients outlive their prognoses has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” she shares.
Leslie’s love for animals started early, volunteering at an animal shelter in her hometown of Marathon, FL. When she moved to Polk County, her passion led her to pursue a career at VHA, where she found a supportive community dedicated to both personal and professional growth. “The VHA way has always been about elevating and growing, and that’s what’s kept me here for over seven years,” she reflects.
The most memorable part of Leslie’s time at VHA has been working with remarkable patients like Benny, a 12-year-old Russell Terrier, and Lola, a black lab mix with lymphoma. “Benny’s case stands out to me,” she recalls. “He was given a three-month life expectancy, but with metabolic therapeutics and HBOT, he was in remission for six months, and with additional treatments, we extended his life another six months. These kinds of cases remind me why I do what I do.” Lola’s case, where they have been successfully treating her for nearly four years, is another example of the transformative care provided at VHA.
At home, Leslie and her wife share three dogs: Leila, a Beagle; Mason, a mixed breed; and Stella, a Chihuahua/Dachshund mix. They also have two orange cats named Neo and Gordo. Outside of work, Leslie and her wife love exploring Florida’s Bone Valley to find fossils. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, dancing, and learning about entomology.
Leslie balances the emotional demands of her role by focusing on her personal well-being through regular exercise, healthy eating, and spending time with family, friends, and her pets. “Surrounding myself with the right people and practices helps me stay grounded,” she says.
Figure out who you are, then do it on purpose. Dolly Parton
