Pike Drugs on South Main Street in Brundidge will host a ribbon cutting and open house at 3:30 p.m. Monday. The public is invited to come meet the owner and pharmacist, Khadija Caldwell and her staff.

Caldwell’s journey to Brundidge began in Morocco, Africa, and followed a path through Russia, Virginia and Enterprise.

Caldwell believes that God has paved the way for her to be in small-town Alabama.

“I am from a small town in Morocco and I’m very comfortable here,” she said. “Brundidge is a welcoming, friendly town and it does remind me of my home.”

Caldwell has been a practicing pharmacist for 22 years. She was educated in Russia and has served several internships with additional training and experience with the Navy.

Locally, she has worked with CVS and in a Dothan hospital pharmacy.

“I excelled in chemistry and that has prepared me well to understand medications and the interactions of medications,” she said. “God prepared me for my profession and He brought me here to Brundidge.”

Caldwell came to the United States in 2008 and had to learn the language and American way of life.

“I like a challenge and I was challenged,” she said, with a smile. “But God brought me here to the United States and He brought me here to Brundidge. I want to be a part of the community and I want to serve the people.”

Caldwell has a heart for those she serves.

“For me, this is not all about money,” she said. “I understand when someone is short of money. But, someone else might say, ‘It’s only a dollar.’ But if you don’t have a dollar, then it is a lot. I care about people and I know that God brought me here to serve the people. I already know the people here are good people and I look forward to being a part of them and this community.”

Caldwell said she wants to help Brundidge grow.

“It breaks my heart to see so many businesses closed,” she said. “I see needs, such as a laundry mat. I have been without a washing machine and dryer. It was hard and it is hard, I’m sure, for those here who do not have those conveniences.”

Caldwell said she is looking forward to being a part of the Brundidge business community and the community as a whole.

“I hear the church chimes play during the day and it is beautiful,” she said. “Brundidge is a good place with good people. I am blessed to be here.”

Caldwell invites Brundidge area residents to attend open house at Pike Drugs on Monday.

“I want to meet the people and let them know that I am here for them,” she said. “I look forward to Monday. I’m happy to be in Brundidge.”

To reach Pike Drugs, call 334-536-0205.