08/11/2026
When I moved back to the DuBois area after being away for nearly 25 years, I had so many fears and uncertainties about what starting over would look like.
I was leaving the Wilkes-Barre area, a place I had called home for two decades. It was where I raised my children, built a successful massage practice, and established a name and reputation in an industry I loved. My business had reached a point where it practically ran itself. I had a fully booked schedule, a waitlist, and years of wonderful clients who trusted me with their care.
The truth is, when I moved back to DuBois with my husband, I thought I was finished with massage therapy altogether.
I was completely burned out. I was so convinced that chapter of my life was over that I gave away all of my equipment to a younger massage therapist who was just starting out on her own.
And the thought of starting over at 46 terrified me.
I wondered how I could possibly rebuild what had taken me so many years to create, especially in a smaller community where everyone seems to know everyone. I worried that people might be hesitant to try someone new. I questioned whether I even had the energy to begin again.
But God had other plans for me.
After receiving additional training in Manual Lymphatic Drainage and seeing the results happen right in front of my eyes, something changed in me. Seeing the difference this work can make for someone living with chronic edema or lymphedema reminded me why I chose a hands-on profession in the first place.
I realized that my calling is still to work one-on-one with people—to use my hands, my knowledge, and the gifts God has given me to help others feel better in their bodies.
I’m also reminded every day of how many people live with chronic pain and are searching for ways to feel better and improve their quality of life. Hearing clients tell me that regular massage has helped them manage their pain, move more comfortably, and feel better in their everyday lives has restored the passion I thought I had lost.
What I thought was the end of my career was really the beginning of a new chapter.
Starting over has required me to step far outside of my comfort zone. There have been plenty of moments when I’ve been scared and unsure of myself. But I continue to put my trust in God and follow where I believe He is leading me—even when I can’t see what’s waiting around the corner.
And one of the greatest surprises has been the incredible support I’ve received from the people of DuBois and the surrounding communities.
To every person who has scheduled an appointment, recommended me to a friend or family member, shared one of my posts, encouraged me, or simply trusted me with your care—thank you. You have no idea how much your support has meant to me.
This week, my schedule is completely booked. ❤️
For someone who once wondered whether she could start over in a small town, seeing a full schedule again is something I don’t take for granted. It’s incredibly humbling, and I am genuinely grateful for every single person who has walked through my door.
Most of all, I thank God every day for pushing me beyond what was comfortable and reminding me that sometimes the things we are most afraid to begin are exactly where He is calling us to go.
I thought I was coming home to close one chapter of my life.
Instead, God gave me a new purpose for the gifts He had already placed in my hands—and a community willing to embrace them. ❤️
Thank you, DuBois and the surrounding communities, for welcoming me home.
