Massage Therapist Beats Cancer, Inspires Others

Everyday Inspirations is a series that features people in Patch communities who inspire others through their work, or people who have faced extraordinary situations and grown from them. They have been featured by other people in the community that have been inspired by the nominees.

Name: Sarah Doherty 
Town: East Greenwich, RI
Nominated by: Robyn Lees

Why is this person an "Everyday Inspiration?" 
Sarah is such a lovely woman inside and out! She owns the massage studio in town called Sundance. She just recently moved into a home on the hill, a rent to own property on prospect and hoping her house in Warwick sells (no pressure). She is recently divorced and trying to be a full-time mom to her two daughters while running her studio, she is a therapist as well and a good friend to me.

I recently moved to town in August. I ran into Sarah and her two daughters at the dog store on Main Street. She was very friendly and helpful. She gave me her number and although she is extremely busy she finds time to stop by and say hi. She'll take me to her yoga class (she is probably tired of hearing me say I need to get in shape) or we will grab a quick breakfast, but if I start talking (like I always do) it becomes a long breakfast/lunch.

In a time where everyone seems over committed and stressed out, Sarah is not breaking a sweat and it is not because she doesn't have much to do! On the contrary...but Sarah always has time to have my daughter over after school, or texts me right back with the name of a good hair dresser or a good soccer league for my daughters. She is kind and considerate in the face of adversity. She doesn't judge people and she is very easy going. That really means something to me. She is an everyday inspiration.

Has the nominee's life been changed in an extraordinary way? 

Sarah was diagnosed three years ago with cancer. I am not clear on all the details but I do know that while running her own business and getting divorced she was diagnosed with cancer! She was sick for the better part of the last three years.

Just after she was diagnosed with cancer her partner in her business (a massage and yoga studio) left and took the yoga studio with her. She had found a great space up the street. Sarah has demonstrated such dignity. She fought the cancer and won! She has keep the massage studio going and it is thriving. Sarah is a giver and what she has to give is what I want! I think you would too.

How does this person work to make others' lives better?

She is a massage therapist. Her job is to help people relax, to become more aware of their own bodies and our ability to heal ourselves. She is walking the talk! She has suggested things to me that have been just what I needed but, not with a heavy hand or any expectation or judgement.

I admire Sarah, she has a lot on her plate but she still has time to reach her hand out to a newcomer. She has been a light that shines bright here in East Greenwich. You should meet her, I think you will agree.