03/07/2026
I hope this letter finds you well and surrounded by the Lord's goodness.
I wanted to personally share an update. Many of you have likely received letters announcing the closure of Riverside Health. This was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. After much prayer and many conversations with the Lord, I truly believe it is the right one.
Building this office and caring for this community have been among the greatest privileges of my life. The trust you placed in me and our office means more than I can express. I cherish the relationships I have built not only with individual patients but also with entire families. Walking alongside you through both difficult and joyful moments has touched me deeply.
Many of you know that my husband and I are expecting our first child. Sharing that news with each of you was such a joyful experience. Seeing your faces light up, the hugs, the tears, and the prayers you offered meant more to me than words can express.
On February 2nd, we received the diagnosis that our baby has spina bifida. Our care was transferred to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. After many appointments, tests, and prayers, we chose prenatal surgery as the best option. On March 2nd, baby Noa and I underwent a 7-hour surgery to repair her spinal defect.
The Lord has carried us through every step and blessed us in many ways. I was even discharged a day earlier than expected. However, due to the surgery’s nature and risks, I will remain in Cincinnati for the rest of the pregnancy so both baby Noa and I can be closely monitored.
Given the medical needs and personal demands of our family, I realized I would not be able to give the practice and our patients the care and attention they deserve. Because of that, we made the difficult decision to close the office and fully focus on our child and family in the months ahead.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity the Lord gave me to serve this community and to be part of your lives. Thank you for trusting me with your care, for supporting our office, and for the many prayers, kind words, and encouragement you have shown us. It has indeed been an honor.
As Genesis 6:8 reminds us, “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” We are holding tightly to that same grace as we walk forward in faith, trusting the Lord with baby Noa’s story and the road ahead.
God bless Altizer,
Abby
