Recognition for David Sweiger, MD, Lake Sawyer Primary Care

Here are thoughts from his colleagues on his retirement:

"As Dr. Dave Sweiger prepares to retire after four decades of dedicated service to the Maple Valley community, we reflect on the profound impact he has had on the lives of countless individuals. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Sweiger has exemplified the true essence of a compassionate physician, leaving an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege of knowing him. From his early days as a young doctor eager to make a difference to his seasoned years as a trusted medical advisor, Dr. Sweiger's journey has been characterized by unwavering kindness and genuine empathy. Patients consistently praise his ability to provide not only medical expertise but also heartfelt understanding and reassurance during their most challenging times.

Beyond his exceptional patient care, Dr. Sweiger has been a pillar of support within the medical community. He has always taken the time to acknowledge and uplift his colleagues, fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and respected. His leadership has been marked by humility and a deep commitment to teamwork, making him a role model for aspiring healthcare professionals. Outside of medicine, Dr. Sweiger's passions for hiking, fishing, and photography have been sources of joy and inspiration. Whether capturing the serene beauty of nature through his camera lens or sharing stories of memorable outdoor adventures, he has enriched the lives of those around him with his adventurous spirit and keen eye for beauty. As Dr. Sweiger embarks on this new chapter of retirement, his legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to resonate throughout Valley Medical Center. The bonds he has forged with patients and colleagues alike will endure, a testament to his profound impact on the community he has served with such distinction.

To Dr. Sweiger, I extend my deepest gratitude for your decades of service, your unwavering compassion, and the lasting impression you have left on the hearts and minds of all who have had the privilege of knowing you. May your retirement be filled with cherished moments of relaxation, exploration, and continued opportunities to pursue your passions. I miss you already and am forever grateful for your contributions, wishing you joy, fulfillment, and abundant happiness in the years ahead. Thank you for everything!!"

"Dr. Sweiger has been an asset to Valley Medical Center, Lake Sawyer Clinic, his patients, and colleagues for several decades.  He always puts his patients first and gave excellent care during his long career as a family physician.  He has a soft spoken, kind, and gentle manner that was commented on frequently by patients and staff.  He would always make you feel welcome and cared for. 

He is an avid hiker, mountaineer, fisherman, and photographer.  I was able to accompany Dave on numerous hikes and climbs and he  always had the same calm and pleasant demeanor no matter how difficult the climb or the weather.  He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time in nature.  I feel fortunate to have shared a clinical practice with him for so many years, and I am excited for him on his next journey."

"I would like to congratulate Dr. Sweiger on his retirement. Dr. Sweiger is a provider who I look up to. He is kind, caring, supportive, helpful, exceptional, and respectful. Every morning when he comes in, he acknowledges everybody and says good morning. He listens to his patients needs and he take cares of his patients just like family. He is a true example of Valley’s mission statement. Our clinic will not be the same without him. We are going to miss him dearly. 

I began my Valley Journey with Dr. David Sweiger.  In looking back at my years with Dr. Sweiger I have many great memories.  For you to appreciate my perceptions it may be important to know that at heart I am an idealist, I care deeply for people, but I am a driver style.  Dr. Sweiger may not know it, but he is a mentor to me.  He assumes the positive intentions first in all situations.  When Valley assumed Dr. Sweiger’s practice, I quickly learned that many of Dr. Sweiger’s patients served as fisherman and loggers.  I would talk to him about his patients who needed to come in more frequently and he would tell me things like, they work in Alaska year-round and will surface for visits at certain time of year.  For our logging community there were patients who had suffered spinal injuries and other movement injuries that required, understanding, support and management of complex pain issues.  He did this.  I quickly learned that he knew his patients, listened to their needs, and offered holistic care with empathy, not judgement.

One day he found an MA asleep in the exam room. He came to me concerned that she may be ill or have had a sick kid and up all night; he was sincere in his concern. I was shocked that someone would come to work and go to sleep in an exam room. After listening to his concern, I thought WOW, you are a better person than me.  The truth is that he was right, I did not know what created the situation. Because of what I saw and what I learned from him in times like this, I changed my style of leadership. I worked hard to adopt the Dave Sweiger life perspective, assume best intent. I am not saying I am always as good at this, but I am saying he helped me grow as a leader.  He made a difference in my life. People talk about assuming the best intent first, but Dave Sweiger practices this as a lifestyle. 

Dave is a photographer, a fisherman, a family man and parent and proud grandfather. He is empathetic, kind and his compassion for humanity is a palpable thing. For those of you who know me, you know I would never say this if I did not believe it. Working with Dr. Sweiger makes you a better person if you absorb the unintentional learning provided. Or maybe, it is intentional. For his patients I sigh over the loss of a compassionate provider. For Dave, I wish him the best of times in his retirement. He has earned it. Thank you, Dave for making me a better leader and for caring for patients like family."

"I've only been with Valley for 3 years, working at the Lake Sawyer Clinic. I have to tell you that Dr Sweiger is the nicest, most genuine, humble man I have ever met. He truly cares about his patients and their wellbeing, which is probably why he prolonged his retirement in 2023. All of his patients love him and are very sad to see him go. He will truly be missed at the clinic! Congratulations Dr. Sweiger, wishing you years ahead filled with new endeavors and happy adventures!"

"I first met Dave during my interview at Valley in 2005. I was grateful given the opportunity to work alongside Dave at the Maple Valley Clinic and Lake Sawyer Clinic. In the last 19 years, I have been a witness to Dave’s selfless dedication to his patients. His patients consider him a close friend in addition to a partner in health. Everyone knows that Dave will give his full attention to each patient and thoughtfully address all physical, emotional, and social needs. I do mean “all.” :-) Over the years, patients have realized that their relationship with Dr. Dave will involve a long wait at the office. It’s worth it, though, as he will ensure that each person receives the time they need during the visit. He will answer every medical question, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and share details about recent vacations. Dave extends his patience to everyone. Even when he runs late in clinic, he will graciously help anyone with a question. As a more seasoned physician, he served as a mentor to many, and we are all better clinicians as a result. Beyond being an amazing physician, he is a friend. I can honestly say that Dave is one of the best human beings that I have ever met. I wish him years of peaceful boating with friends and family!"