There are men and women in our society who choose a path that few dare to follow. Not because it is easy, but precisely because it is difficult.

Natural health practitioners, naturopaths, and independent therapists often choose a road where nothing is guaranteed. No assured paycheck at the end of the month. No job security. No special government protection. No ready-made client base handed to them on a silver platter.

They build everything themselves.

While others benefit from professional stability, these individuals invest their savings, time, energy, and sometimes even their peace of mind into developing a practice founded on a deep conviction: helping people regain and preserve their health.

They spend years studying, improving their skills, attending training programs, reading, researching, and developing their expertise, often at their own expense. Every client they gain is the result of continuous effort. Every consultation is built upon trust that had to be earned one person at a time.

When times are difficult, no one guarantees their income.

When a client cancels, rent increases, unexpected expenses arise, or an economic downturn strikes, they bear the consequences themselves.

They know sleepless nights filled with worry. They know what it means to work 60- or 70-hour weeks. They know doubt, family sacrifices, and the responsibilities that come with entrepreneurial freedom.

Yet they continue.

Why?

Because beyond the business, there is a mission.

Because beyond the income, there is a calling.

Because beyond the obstacles, there is a sincere desire to improve the lives of their fellow citizens.

They choose to serve before being recognized.

They choose to persevere before being rewarded.

They choose to believe in their vision even when many tell them it would be easier to give up.

Courage is not only about facing danger. Courage is also about getting up every morning without any guarantee of success, continuing despite difficulties, and carrying the weight of one's responsibilities while maintaining the desire to help others.

Natural health practitioners build their client base year after year, embodying this quiet everyday strength.

They are not asking for privileges.

They simply ask for the respect owed to those who have chosen the most uncertain path in order to follow the calling of their hearts.

It takes tremendous determination to devote one's life to what truly matters, especially when supporting a family, raising children, and meeting countless responsibilities.

It is precisely this determination, resilience, and passion that deserve recognition today from our families, our clients, and society as a whole—society to which they have given so much while rarely asking for anything in return.

For decades, naturopathic practitioners have contributed to improving public health. By promoting prevention, health education, and personal responsibility, they help reduce pressure on the healthcare system and the costs associated with it. When individuals adopt healthier lifestyles and take charge of their well-being, they often require fewer consultations for preventable conditions.

Yet rather than encouraging this contribution, several measures appear to restrict access to the profession. Beginning in 2026, students will no longer be eligible for certain tax deductions related to tuition fees. For many, this represents a concerning signal—a reduction in support for complementary health approaches.

Why make access to a profession more difficult when it clearly meets a real public demand? Why limit citizens' choices when more and more people wish to decide freely which professionals they consult to care for their health?

Freedom of choice in healthcare is a fundamental value. Citizens do not wish to be confined to a single model or a single approach. They want access to different options and the freedom to choose those that best align with their needs, values, and circumstances.

Powerful economic and institutional interests exert considerable influence over the organization of healthcare. In such a context, independent practitioners may understandably wonder whether they are being pushed toward extinction.

And yet, public demand remains very real.

People continue to seek professionals who take the time to listen, guide, and empower them to become active participants in their own health journey.

As long as this need exists, naturopaths and natural health practitioners will continue to play an important role in society.

Congratulations to you.

And a special thank you to the women who choose to support us, follow us, and remain involved for so many years. Thank you for the recognition and trust you have shown us.

And since I am still here as well, our story is not over yet.

Let's save the best for last.

David R. Bentata
Director, Collège des Médecines Douces du Québec