Years of experience working in an ER and ICU taught DR. MARA RADEN, PharmD, FAOOT, two things: that western medicine is great at providing acute care and treating symptoms and fails at preventative care and treating diseases at their root causes. After becoming increasingly frustrated with her career at a busy hospital, Raden knew she needed a change. “I began to focus my 90-minute drives on education—listening to lectures through an integrative fellowship on environmental medicine, hormones, chronic infections, IV therapies, and more,” she says. “My search for solutions to chronic illness led to additional education in environmental medicine, peptides, ozone therapy, and innovative approaches to health.” As someone who always strived to stand out, Raden commends those who create evolutionary change: “Even at a young age, I never wanted to blend in,” she says. “To me, a role model is an industry disruptor with confidence and a person who aims to be different.” Raden certainly exemplifies those traits. Fast forward to today—alongside her husband, she’s co-founder and chief wellness officer of Raden Wellness, a progressive, functional medical practice focused on longevity and health optimization. “Through thoughtful investigation, comprehensive medical testing, and 100 percent personalized protocols, we guide our patients along their journey to true healing and optimal health,” she says. “I empower them to live happier, healthier, longer, and more energetic lives. The benefits of working in the wellness industry is we’re constantly focused on regeneration and optimal health so taking care of myself and my team is important to me.”

Raden Wellness is located at 200 Green Bay Road in Highwood. For more information, call 847-235-2139 or visit radenwellness.com.