12/31/2022
"In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb"
We are hoping for a calm 2023 since this is how 2022 ended for Calera Dental Center.
We were dining with our families on Christmas Eve when we received a call from our alarm monitoring system. We immediately drove to the office and this is what we walked in to find. We are just recovering from the shock enough to let everyone know. Our overhead fire sprinkler system, that we were always told was a dry system, burst in multiple locations throughout the building due to the extended freezing temps. There were also busted copper water pipes even though we left the heat on and faucets dripping. We want to thank our Calera Fire Department who not only showed up quickly on a busy night but also stayed to help us with immediate water removal. Within 30 minutes of sending a text to a few employees, at least 20 people showed up from our Calera Dental Center team with their family members. This still makes us cry when we think about it.
We are closed until further notice but Dr. Rigsby and I have been working side by side daily with an amazing company, All-Pro Fire and Water, to get us up and running as soon as possible.
We have been searching for silver linings in the midst of this unexpected set back. Here is what is getting us through this:
We have been in business a long time. We have an amazing team and loyal, understanding patients. We have incredible relationships and partnerships with businesses who have already helped during a holiday week. As we are sifting through soggy papers we have found cards and letters from patients, employees (both past and present), colleagues and friends. We have salvaged notes from our team meetings that we have had throughout the years. We are finding inspiration from these notes, cards and words from our younger, more energetic & enthusiastic selves. We are rediscovering our WHY!!
We are going to be fine and will come back from this better than ever. Please be patient with us as we get everyone rescheduled and find ways to handle patient emergencies. We promise we are working hard to get this building safe and clean so we can return as soon as possible even if in a limited way for now.
Thank you to all who have helped us so far and for understanding as we rebuild.
Dr. Ashley Ford