In conversation with Mississauga entrepreneur David Oldnall.

1. What exactly does your business do?
We are a Physiotherapy/Massage therapy clinic, that specializes in Photobiomodulation (PBM). More commonly referred to as Laser Therapy. PBM is a safe, highly effective, scientifically proven and pain free modality that is used in the treatment of musculoskeletal problems and wound healing. The technology is non-invasive, non-toxic, and is currently utilized in many countries world-wide. Combined with manual therapy and individualized exercise programs, we have been successfully treating patients for years.

2. What inspired you to start your business?
I chose to take over the business when the previous owner retired in 2017. I had already been working at the clinic since 2009, and wanted to continue to provide the high level of care that the clinic was known for. I have enjoyed the relationships that have developed with some of our long time clients, and did not want that to end.

3. How has your business adapted to the new world?
While we have always maintained a high standard of cleanliness, we have had to adapt the next level of sanitizing and screening in order to keep ourselves, our clients, and our community safe. We are following all government protocols, screening of patients, wearing of masks, providing hand sanitizer upon entry, and using products listed on the government website that are approved for use in a “medical facility”. Mr. Clean just doesn’t make the cut anymore.

4. What are you most proud of from a business perspective?
The environment that we have created at Lightspeed. Patients come to us in pain, and we make them feel comfortable and safe. They trust the work of the therapists and staff. They know that we will do everything in our power to help them reach their therapeutic goals. I take great pride when I hear laughter coming from patients while working with the staff here. Therapy can be difficult, but it can also be a really positive experience, and that is what we want to provide at Lightspeed.

5. What’s been the largest obstacle to overcome and how did you do it?
Exposure. We are in the lower level of the Sheridan Centre. The mall has lost many tenants, and has very little traffic. We are not visible to the outside world, and that can be a problem. I would love to move locations, but we are in a lease, and the cost of moving is just prohibitive at the current time. I have tried various ways of advertising our clinic, but getting to the end user is a lot more difficult than people would think. I have tried email blasts, but most people get so much junk email, those usually in up as spam or sent to the recycle bin without opening. Just prior to the Pandemic, I invested a sizeable amount of money into advertising on video screens in walk in clinic waiting rooms. Clinics that now sit empty while showing advertisements for my clinic. I cannot truly say I have overcome this obstacle, but I am continuing to try. I hope that if you are reading this, you may think of us the next time you have an injury, of maybe just want a relaxing massage.

6. What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Do your due diligence when looking to open a business, or purchase an existing business. I can tell you from experience, when it comes to money, people can be vicious. Make sure that what you are getting into is in good working order from top to bottom. I made the mistake of taking somebody’s word, and it cost me a lot of money. A mistake that will never happen again.

7. What message do you have for the community as we continue to navigate the global pandemic?
Think of others. I dislike wearing masks as much as the next person, but is it really that much of a sacrifice to put one on? This really isn’t a big ask. Wear a mask, wash or sanitize your hands, and leave a reasonable social distance where possible. I miss going to movies and out for dinner. I miss festivals and going into stores without lining up and having my temperature taken. I want to hug my mother without worrying about exposing her to danger. But if we can just do the basics consistently, we can get ahead of this thing. And I personally will get vaccinated as soon as a vaccine becomes available to me. Please be safe.

lightspeedrehab.com