A Homecoming Story: Kirah

There’s something special about returning to where it all began. It’s not just about reconnecting with family or getting back to your roots—it’s about rediscovering the magic that made you fall in love with a place in the first place. Today, we’re chatting with a local who boomeranged back to the Thumb, and their story might just inspire you to do the same. From the hustle and bustle of city life to the slower pace of the Thumb, it’s been a journey full of surprises, rewarding moments, and a deep sense of community.

Let’s dive into this Q&A as we hear firsthand what it’s really like to return home after spending time away!

Photo courtesy of Scheurer Health

Where in the Thumb did you grow up, and what was life like back then?

"I grew up in Ubly and lived there my whole life until I started college at CMU the summer after I graduated high school. Life in the Thumb was easy—everyone knew everyone. The community was like one big family."

What made you leave the Thumb in the first place? Was it a classic ‘I need to see the world’ moment, or did something else call you away?

"I left the Thumb for school. I did move back home during the summers in undergrad and between undergrad and PA (Physician Assistant) school."

Before returning to the Thumb, where did you live, and what were you doing?

"I lived in Mount Pleasant, MI, for 3.5 years for undergrad at CMU, then in Davison, MI, for about 16 months during my didactic portion of PA school. During my clinical rotations, I lived and traveled all over St. Helen, Saginaw, Bay City, Milford, Ann Arbor, and Dearborn. I also had a few rotations in the Thumb, which were a big factor in my decision to move back home after graduation."

What inspired you to move back to the Thumb?

"Moving back to the Thumb has always been one of my career goals. Once I started my clinical rotations in various communities, I knew I wanted to come back to the place that felt like home for me. My fiancé, friends, and family were all here as well. It’s funny—during my rotations in and out of the Thumb, I noticed how different people are here. I grew up here, so I’m used to the simple chatter like ‘Who are you from home? Who are your parents?’ It seems like everyone around here is connected through someone or something, which makes it so unique and personable."

How has the transition back been, both personally and professionally?

"I love it. I love being back in the community I care about. It always makes my day at work when someone says something that connects us during our visits, whether that’s something as simple as knowing my family or others who remember me as a child in the community."

What was the biggest surprise about returning home? Maybe something you didn’t expect?

"How much slower things are. I was so used to the busy hustle and bustle in the city. Everyone is always go-go-go. Things just move slower around here. Even when I’m in a rush, it’s nothing like rushing around a busy city like Ann Arbor."

What’s been the biggest change or benefit for you since returning?

"I just love making a difference in the community I love, with the people I grew up with. Being able to care for community members and build lasting relationships is so rewarding."

Has the Thumb grown on you/your partner in any unexpected ways? What’s something you now appreciate that you didn’t before?

"The safety. I never feel like I have to watch my back. People are good here. Don’t get me wrong, there are a few rotten apples, but for the most part, everyone looks out for everyone in the community. You don’t get that in other places."

How did you find your current job, and what do you enjoy most about it?

"I did some of my rotations with Scheurer as a student. Seeing the lasting impact and quality of care they provide to the community made me want to work at Scheurer. I stayed in contact with them throughout the rest of my schooling, and when a position opened up, I jumped at it. What I enjoy most about working for Scheurer is the desire to go above and beyond for the community and our patients. The quality of care provided is exceptional, and it’s what I strive to achieve with each patient I see."

If your job had a tagline, what would it be?

"Hmm… maybe ‘Healthcare in a Snap!’ LOL. If you’ve seen the billboard, you’d get it."

What advice would you give someone thinking about returning to the Thumb to build their career and life?

"Just do it. Moving here is an adjustment if you're not from here, but the Thumb is like no other place. It’s our own little paradise filled with the best community."

Is there a local hidden gem you’ve discovered that you think others should know about?

"Emma’s Coffee House has the best cinnamon rolls and coffee—an essential in my line of work. I live in Harbor Beach, so I love the walking trails by the dock and harbor."

If you could create a perfect day in the Thumb, what would it look like?

"A perfect day would be a nice, hot summer day with breakfast from Emma’s, then probably riding around on our side-by-side with friends and family. Afterward, we’d grab some ice cream at The Chill Zone in Port Hope before heading home for a bonfire."

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Returning home isn’t always easy, but it’s clear that the Thumb has a way of making you fall in love with it all over again.

If you’re a boomerang—whether you’re considering a move back or you’re already here—there’s something undeniably special about reconnecting with your roots. The Thumb may have changed over the years, but the community, the pace, and the sense of belonging remain timeless. If you’re ready to embrace that slower pace and make a real impact, the Thumb is waiting for you!