Dr. Mandy-Jo & Dr. Kieran Moved Up from Manitoba in 2024

Meet Dr. Mandy-Jo Stratuliak, 27, and Dr. Kieran Raknerud, 26.

Originally from Dauphin, MB and Grandview, MB, respectively, this husband-and-wife chiropractor duo moved up to Grimshaw in May 2024.

They went to school in Bloomington Minnesota to pursue doctor of chiropractic degrees at Northwestern Health Sciences University.

Where do you work?

We are both working at Grimshaw Chiropractic Care Centre and at Regenesis Physiotherapy in Peace River.

Our mission is to provide patient-centred, evidence-based chiropractic care to the Peace Region. We believe in empowering the people of our community by providing the utmost standard of care to help with healing and promote long term wellness.

What’s your story? How did you end up relocating to Northwestern Alberta?

While in chiropractic school, we planned to go back to Manitoba to pursue our chiropractic practice.

However, we made a connection to Grimshaw Chiropractic Care Centre via a family member, so we moved 30+ hours away to complete our last remaining trimesters.

We completed our last final months of chiropractic school under Dr. Brett and Dr. Jen, and we’re now working alongside them.

We have family in Peace River as well. It’s great to be closer to them while being able to do something we are both very passionate about.

What was your first impression of Northwestern Alberta?

Our first impression of Northwestern Alberta is how vast and welcoming it is. You are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, wide open skies and tight knit communities.

What surprised you the most about Northwestern Alberta?

What surprised us the most about Northwestern Alberta is how long the summer days are here and how kind, generous and supportive people are.

For a few weeks after starting at the clinic, we were nervous being in a new area, but everyone made us feel at home right away and we are forever grateful for that. We are proud and honoured to be here!

Compared to where you came from, how is Northwestern Alberta different?

Manitoba has its own charm, but Northwestern Alberta hits differently.

It feels more opportunity-driven and fast-paced. Life feels a little more raw and real here. There is strong work ethic and a sense of belonging and authenticity.

We have also never seen the northern lights as much as we have here, which has been amazing.

In what ways have you integrated yourself into the community?

We were truly welcomed with open arms when we moved to Grimshaw. The amount of kindness, generosity and support we have received in this community has gone unmatched.

Since moving here, we have made it a priority to get involved with the community and connect with the people around us.

We enjoy attending local farmers’ markets to support small businesses and to shine light on all the hard-working people out here.

We plan to join local organizations and volunteer for community initiatives to form genuine connections. We play pickleball with a great group of people in Grimshaw and we will be picking up slo-pitch this summer.

What would be your advice to anyone thinking of relocating here?

If you are into nature and a lifestyle that is heart-forward, Northwestern Alberta is the place for you!

If you want to feel a strong sense of community and take pride in working hard, it’s the perfect fit.

Life in Northwestern Alberta reminds you of what matters—amazing people, meaningful work and time well spent.

How do you entertain out-of-town guests? What are some must-try Northwestern Alberta experiences?

Some must-try Northwestern Alberta experiences include seeing the beautiful northern lights, fishing, going to rodeos and ag fairs, checking out Dunvegan Provincial Park, visiting the Peace River valley and of course, checking out many of the amazing small locally owned and operated businesses.

Have you had any interesting wildlife encounters since you’ve been here?

We find it crazy how the deer are so comfortable with people in the area. You can go outside, feed them and they just walk right up to you. Other than that, we have not had any other crazy wildlife encounters yet.

What is your ideal Sunday (or day off) in Northwestern Alberta?

We love to spend time with our dog Luna, hanging out with friends and family and playing cards/board games when we get the chance.

You will also find us at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex working out at their beautiful facility.

We also like spending time outdoors whether it’s going for walks or just sitting outside enjoying the fresh air!

What are some of your favourite outdoor activities in Northwestern Alberta?

We enjoy golfing at Mighty Peace, walking our dog and going on different trails/hikes in the area.

Since we are newer to the area, we would love any recommendations of what to do outdoors in Northwestern Alberta.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, we see ourselves growing in a way that contributes meaningfully to the community. Professionally, we will continue to provide care where people feel heard, respected and supported in their wellness journeys.

We will be involved in community events, collaborate with other healthcare providers and contribute to local wellness initiatives. We plan to invest and grow with the community.