After the events of September 11, 2001, I transitioned from my role as an airline employee into the world of massage therapy, not realizing at the time how profoundly it would enrich my life and the lives of others. Now, more than twenty years later, I’m humbled by the incredible journey within this beautiful industry.

My training at Ashmead College in Vancouver, Washington, was intensive and focused on using massage therapy for medical treatments and pathology. I chose Ashmead for its emphasis on how specific techniques can help guide the human body back to health. I firmly believe that our bodies naturally strive for wellness, and it’s up to us to support that balance to live our best lives. Of course, life can bring injuries, illness, and emotional challenges, but I’ve seen firsthand how bodywork can help us realign physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Noticing a need for a female medical massage therapist who accepted insurance in Southern Oregon, I became accredited and opened my private practice in Medford in June 2003. By 2005, I was teaching at the Ashland Institute of Massage, where I introduced their first insurance billing course and covered topics like bookkeeping, HIPAA, marketing, and Oregon massage law, along with chair massage courses.

During my time as an instructor, I also recognized the demand for corporate chair massage in Southern Oregon, leading to the creation of The Healing Chair. For five years, I had the pleasure of serving some of the largest companies in our area, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oregon, Bear Creek Corporation, Musician’s Friend, Sprint, Embarq, and Rogue Valley Medical Center (Asante).

I’ve also enjoyed participating in special projects over the years, such as working with the PBA Tournament for the Earl Anthony Classic, where I treated professional bowlers and Hall of Fame players who always expressed how much they loved stopping in Medford. Since 2005, I’ve organized an annual donation to the Pear Blossom Run, bringing in licensed therapists and current students from the Ashland Institute of Massage. This initiative not only supports our community but also provides continuing education for therapists and hands-on experience for students. All of these endeavors have been incredibly close to my heart and a meaningful contribution to both my industry and my community.