Compounding has shaped not only my career, but the way I care for patients. From the beginning, I was drawn to the idea that medication shouldn’t be one‑size‑fits‑all. Compounding gives pharmacists the ability to tailor treatments to the very specific needs of individuals, and that ability to create something truly personalized is what pulled me into this profession and continues to inspire me today.

I found my way to PCCA because of their commitment to quality and innovation. Over time, they’ve become an essential partner in my work. Their education, resources and support help me provide solutions that standard medications simply can’t offer. Knowing I have access to their expertise allows me to continually grow as a compounder and better serve my patients.

If I had to choose one word — other than “personal” — to describe what compounding means to me, it would be “transformative.” Compounding transforms a traditional approach to health care into one that is precise, individualized and deeply impactful. I’ve seen this transformation in countless patients, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

One patient who comes to mind is Susan, an elderly woman who struggled with swallowing pills and managing several medications at once. To make her treatments easier, I created a transdermal cream using PCCA’s Lipoderm® base, combining multiple medications into a single, easy‑to‑use formula. Her adherence improved significantly, and I collaborated closely with her primary care physician to make sure everything was dosed correctly. The improvement in her symptom relief — and her overall health — was unmistakable.

Today, I see compounders as an essential part of the healthcare landscape. We fill treatment gaps, improve patient compliance and offer solutions when commercial medications fall short. Every personalized preparation reinforces the importance of what we do.

The gratitude that patients express is one of the great joys of this work. I’ve received heartfelt letters, personal referrals and even handmade artwork from individuals who wanted to show their appreciation. Those moments remind me why I do what I do.

At Williamsburg Drug Company, we’re committed to making compounding accessible and understood within our community. We host seminars for healthcare providers, participate in health fairs, welcome legislators into the pharmacy and share patient stories whenever possible. We also have a pharmacist dedicated full‑time to marketing and speaking to organizations throughout the area, helping more people understand how compounding can change lives.

For pharmacists and technicians interested in entering the world of compounding, my advice is simple: stay curious and never stop learning. The field is constantly evolving, and success comes from embracing that growth. If you’re driven by problem‑solving and a desire to make a meaningful impact, you will find compounding incredibly fulfilling.