Massage therapists puts skills to use for charity

May 29, 2008

Etobicoke massage therapist Cheryl Migus-Smart was just 21 when she was diagnosed with a crippling case of endometriosis, but now she's putting her healing hands to use to raise money for the cause.

Endometriosis is a hormone and immune system disease in which tissue similar to that in the uterus is also found elsewhere - ovaries, fallopian tubes, abdominal lining, bowel and bladder - resulting in pain, inflammation, internal bleeding, the formation of scar tissue, and other problems.

For Migus-Smart, 28, it has meant three surgeries in the last seven years to remove cysts and fibrous growths.

"The pain gets so intense... it's a chronic condition," she said. "2006 was the worst year yet. I'm self-employed as a massage therapist, so I was off work for four months - even now I can only work four days a week. I have no benefits, so it's a financial strain when I'm in so much pain that I can't work; it's debilitating."

But now that she's feeling better, Migus-Smart is trying to raise awareness and a little money for the Endometriosis Association by putting her talents to use at a second annual fundraiser on Sunday, June 1.

The event will take place at her clinic, Treasured Hands, 140 La Rose Ave. Unit 202, where Migus-Smart and a colleague will be giving 15-minute massage therapy and shiatsu therapy treatments for charity from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will also be a draw to win prizes. All money raised will go to the Endometriosis Association, www.enddometriosisassn.org

- Cynthia Reason