client:  "How long have you been doing massage for?"

me:      "Professionally or unprofessionally?"

client:  "Either one."

This is a frequent exchange between new clients and me when their session first begins.
Figured I'd might as well answer it here. (because returning clients have been known to ask again)

I've known since I was about 7 years old that massage was something both needed and wanted.
I also knew that I was drawn to it and its ability to help people; people like my mom, Michelle.
There are snippets of memories that live in my mind of me running around the house looking for things like rolling pins and pool balls to deliver pressure that I just could not quite muster at 7.

Flash forward to me at about 17 years old and my mom is struck with something that takes years to name; dystonia. Up until that diagnosis I can recall many who were unwilling to, or unsure how to, work with her condition. That was utterly ridiculous to me as I watched her suffering day in and day out.
So, I took it upon myself to begin massage sessions with her.
That was over a decade ago.

2025 was the year I was finally able to pursue what had become a lifelong calling.
I am proud to say I graduated from Capri College in Cedar Rapids in August 2025 and although I am new to the professional side of this world, I come with an innate sense born out of needs and wants.