06/03/2026
Today, June 3, marks my 50th anniversary as a massage therapist. My journey began in September 1975 when I enrolled in a 1,000-hour program in Miami, Florida. I was nicknamed “Malleolus” while in school. I graduated from massage school on June 3, 1976. I have always found it humorous that my diploma lists "Massage Technology" as if I were trained to work on machines.
I initially enrolled because friends were attending, and I thought it would be an enjoyable experience. As a veteran, my GI Bill benefits supported me through that year and later helped me complete Naturopathic Medical College. Throughout my career—whether as a student or while directing and teaching at a massage school—I have always maintained my private practice.
Early in my career, I faced a challenge with wrist pain that made me fear I couldn't continue. However, I discovered that a specific technique I had learned was the cause. By modifying that technique, the pain vanished. Later, in 1979, I studied with a Chinese Tai Chi master in San Francisco. The movement patterns I learned then have informed my bodywork and contributed significantly to my longevity in this profession.
Although I am now well past retirement age, I continue to enjoy seeing clients, traveling, and teaching. I feel truly blessed to love my work and to have had the opportunity to help others for half a century.
You can learn more about my journey here: https://massagelibrary.com/about/
