Founded in 2022 by nurse and entrepreneur Andrea Barnes, La Sur Wellness & Co. has evolved from a small operation into a multidisciplinary clinic offering a wide range of services designed to support patients at every stage of their health journey.

Today, injectables account for roughly 60 per cent of the clinic's business, but the practice has expanded far beyond aesthetics. Services now include hormone replacement therapy, private healthcare, on-site blood draws, women's health, men's health, preventative medicine, regenerative medicine and expanding dermatology services.

The clinic's growth recently earned recognition from the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, receiving the New Business Excellence Award at the 2026 Business Excellence Awards.

"We were honestly just thrilled to be nominated," said Barnes. "I didn't think we were going to win. My husband kept telling me I should prepare a speech, and I said there was no need because we weren't going to win."

That changed when the clinic's name was announced.

"It was a huge honour," she said. "We were very proud of the work we've done and proud to be recognized by the community."

Since opening its doors, La Sur Wellness & Co. has experienced remarkable growth, now having a 12-bed clinic supported by a team of 14 staff members.

For Barnes, that success reflects the trust patients have placed in the clinic and the growing demand for accessible healthcare services in the region.

"We've seen the community really embrace what we're doing," she said. "That tells us these services are needed."

Beyond patient care, community involvement remains a cornerstone of the business. This year alone, the clinic helped raise $40,000 for Our Kids Count and established a $25,000 nursing bursary through Confederation College to help support future healthcare professionals.

The bursary is particularly meaningful for Barnes, who began her career as a bedside nurse.

"What comes first is always our patients," she said. "If we can help encourage and support the next generation of nurses, that's something we're very proud of."

The clinic also places a strong emphasis on supporting local entrepreneurs, particularly women-owned businesses. Through partnerships, mentorship and collaboration, the team works to create opportunities for other small businesses to grow alongside them.

As healthcare systems continue to face challenges, La Sur Wellness & Co. remains focused on filling gaps in care by providing accessible services and emphasizing prevention before problems become more serious.

"We're trying to support our community where there are gaps," Barnes said. "We want people to feel cared for, supported and empowered to take control of their health."

With continued growth, a commitment to community and a focus on patient-centred care, La Sur Wellness & Co. is proving that small beginnings can lead to a significant impact.