I was parked for 29 years in a parking space (job) that suited the needs of myself and my family for that period of time. It was a great job, but corporate downsizing occurred and at the age of 49, I was forced into retirement. I spent countless hours trying to figure out what career path I wanted to take. I say “wanted”, because I believed if you do something you want to do and that you find contentment and joy from it, it's not a job. Now, that was the conundrum....what job could fill those large shoes? I knew that I'd recognize the right path when I stood before it.

All of my education and experience was either in managing, manufacturing or in the social sciences. At this point in my life, I was needing something different. Something that allowed me to use all the managerial and people skills I learned from the world's best, along with the innovative creativity I possessed and as previously stated, it needed to provide joy in my life.

After scanning and researching many new avenues, nothing seemed to be suitable. In the meantime, stress was mounting as the Fulton based corporation was nearing their end. There was a sadness and worry everywhere. Most people in the plant were in their fifties, some within a year or two or retirement. It was a very somber day to day existence. Tensions mounted, as the entire workforce knew their high paying jobs were coming to an end. During this time I had heard that massage relieves stress. I had always perceived massage as something people do when the needed pampering. I had no idea of any of the physiological benefits it offered a person. So, I thought I should at least try it while I had an income to enjoy such a pampering.

It was the best thing I could have given myself. After receiving that first massage, I felt total calm, in spite of the fact that in a few months I would be unemployed, with kids in college, a home to maintain, a car payment and all the other money vacuums one is surrounded with in the game of life. At the time I could not put my finger on it, but I knew it was an altering experience for me. I kept wondering why such a simple thing could provide such a feeling of euphoria, especially in spite of my being in the midst of such a turbulent time.

I thought, "What a wonderful job, to be able to send people on their way with such bliss." It was then that a light bulb went on! I imagined myself partaking in such a health service for others. I then started researching what was involved in becoming a massage therapist. I was totally surprised to find so many health benefits, after all, isn't massage just for relaxation? Once I realized the importance of all the benefits, I began to consider making massage a career goal. One thing led to another, then another, and it became very apparent to me that this was my chosen path. From that point on, instead of being parked, I began moving forward, advancing towards my own goals to improve not only my own life, but that of others I would touch along the way. 

I attended the Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Syracuse New York. I was in the evening program, which consisted of three evenings each week for 15 months. I graduated with honors in May of 2005. I sat for the New York State Board Exam on Aug. 25, 2005. On Sept. 26, 2005 I was notified that I passed the board exam. I am a member of ABMP (Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals).

I am also a New York State Certified Emergency Medical Technician and I am a Volunteer Firefighter with the Lacona Fire Department and I serve in the executive line as the department secretary. I am also a member of The Greater Pulaski Chamber of Commerce and the Women in Business Organization.

I thrive in an educational setting and I continually seek new knowledge. In addition to continual training in the science and skills of firefighting, and emergency medical services, I constantly research and apply new information within the field of massage. Someday I will be the little old lady going to class with her book bag attached to her walker. There is so much more I want to know!

I totally believe in the healing power of touch and I will spend the rest of my life educating others about the importance of this powerful health modality. When I am physically unable to provide massage, I will always be connected to massage somehow.