By Cara Birrittieri
Author, Freelance Writer,
Science Teacher,
Maple Grove Substitute
CHQ County Resident
Vitality Natural Health and Wellness Center will include treatment options.
The Lakewood Apothecary is under new ownership, and a new name: Vitality Natural Health and Wellness Center. The new owner, Melissa Dengler, ND LMT (Naturopathic Doctor and Licensed Massage Therapist), is thrilled to bring her brand of preventive holistic healthcare to Lakewood, “I am very excited about the opportunity to add the Lakewood location.”
When the original owner and creator of the now iconic apothecary, Jim Rovegno decided to retire, word got around quickly. Dengler had met Rovegno years ago when she visited Lakewood with a group of her massage therapy students. They stayed in touch referring clients to each other. Last fall two of Rovegno’s referrals came to her with news that he was looking to retire and sell his business. She reached out the next day, and plans to acquire the business unfolded.
A pharmacist by trade, Rovegno opened the Lakewood Apothecary to provide a personal touch and alternatives to traditional medicine. Two years ago, he reluctantly gave up the pharmacy side of the business, but remained steadfast on his pledge to provide high quality supplements and other healthcare options, as well as local foods and wholesome treats. He also wanted to make sure the mission and small-town charm would carry on after the sale. It appears he was successful.
The Lakewood location is Dengler’s third wellness center. The two others are in Meadville, PA, and Grove City, PA. Seems her idea for wellness centers, and Rovegno’s are a good match, “We carry professional grade nutritional supplements at our locations; products are hand selected based on quality, purity of ingredients, testing, forms of nutrients, potency, and pricing.”
Walking into the building today, the staff seems excited to continue the mission set forth years ago. However, there will be more product lines added, and new services available soon. Dengler is a massage therapist but she has lots of ideas for services at her Lakewood business, “At our other locations we offer a wide range of services including naturopathic medicine, health coaching, nutritional therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, reflexology, reiki, feldenkrais, ionic detox foot baths, infrared sauna, and whole-body cryotherapy. In the fall of 2023, we plan to bring some of these services to Lakewood.”
While those having dietary needs and chronic illnesses will usually seek out alternative therapies to complement medical care, reaching younger and healthier populations is also key to a successful wellness center. Dengler agrees, “Prevention is the best medicine! My business has always been focused on education. We offer free education through our monthly newsletters and social media pages. Our staff members are well trained to answer questions and in the near future, we will offer wellness consultations in naturopathic medicine, nutritional therapy, and health coaching.”
Vitality Natural Health and Wellness Center will continue to offer very specialized products. For instance, they offer two formulations of Vitamin B12; the common synthetic type (cyanocobalamin, containing cyanide); as well as the natural version (methylcobalamin, derived from nature). Finding the natural version is difficult at most chain pharmacies. All vitamins and other supplements offered are professional grade, and the highest quality. They will also carry natural body and skin care items, and wellness products such as essential oils, full spectrum hemp/CBD products, organic snacks, and local products including maple syrup, honey, and farm fresh eggs.
Dengler has hired the same staff, so Judy, Jody, and Dawn will provide consistent personal attention. Still, she knows Rovegno’s shoes will be hard to fill. “With each expansion of my business, my goal has always been to provide a resource for the community for education, healing, and wellness. Our Lakewood location allows me to reach a community already used to having a local health store, expand on the quality natural products, and now add access to holistic health services.”
The mission of Lakewood apothecary is inscribed on the transom above the entry doors: May healing begin as you walk through these doors. Dengler will now carry the tradition forward, “We are excited to serve the community and be the ‘go to’ resource for all of your health and wellness needs.” Located on Chautauqua Ave., in front of the clock tower. Perfect to carry on Rovegno’s motto, “Where we always have time for you!”