Shalonda Pettis

I am Shalonda Pettis, better known as "Dr. Shay- The Purple PA", a compassionate health and wellness coach. My 20 years of experience as a Physician Assistant has fueled my love and passion for Health and Wellness. After graduating from Emory University in 2003 with a Masters in Medical Science (MMSc), I started a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) and practiced in multiple clinical settings to include Family Practice, Cardiology, Internal Medicine/Hospital Medicine, Veterans Health and Community Outreach. Leading a healthy lifestyle had always been important to me, but soon after settling into my hospital job where I worked long and unpredictable hours, I found myself neglecting my own well-being. I later returned to school and earned my Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree at the University of Lynchburg. Eventually, I realized that although I enjoyed taking care of patients, my true passion lies in disease prevention and wellness. Throughout my years of clinical practice, I struggled to balance my professional career and personal life. I juggled being a wife, mother to 3 sons, caregiver to a bed-bound mom, healthcare provider and active church and community member. I gave all of my time and energy while faithfully honoring my commitments, however, often times, I had nothing left for myself. I also witnessed many of my professional colleagues struggle to balance their lives. After experiencing burnout and being diagnosed with a chronic illness, I finally decided to practice self-care and to make my personal health and wellness a priority. I embraced and focused on my own wellness journey which led to a total mind and body transformation. Utilizing my knowledge of the human mind and body along with prior experience and recent training, I have developed a unique wellness program that is built for success. Today, I am a certified Health Coach, accredited by the American Council on Exercise (ACE). I believe in the importance of mental, physical, and spiritual well-being for optimal health. Thus, Elite Wellness Solutions was born! No matter where you are today in your wellness journey, anyone can join the Elite Wellness Club! Drawing on my extensive knowledge of the human body, nutrition, fitness, chronic disease management and behavior-based coaching, I support my clients in creating effective, individualized programs that assists them in achieving their health and wellness goals. Whether you are looking to lose weight, improve your blood pressure, or improve your work-life balance, you can be successful.