American Massage Therapy Association^®

Quotes

AMTA would like to share some comments from members in the hurricane-affected areas who have received AMTA Practitioner Rebuilding Kits and/or dues relief, and other thoughts expressed about the response of AMTA members.

Appreciations

“AMTA has greatly exceeded my expectations for aid. Extraordinary!” Lauren Duhe, New Orleans, LA

“I have no idea as to when I will be able to get a studio of my own again. I think it is so very kind and generous of the AMTA to do what it is doing for its members. I want to thank you again from the bottom of my heart for all you are doing. Thanks very, very much.” Paul A. Clifton, Covington, LA

"My first reaction was, ‘Oh my God, people know what we're going through here.  For awhile we were invisible.’  I cried when I first heard - I couldn't talk at first.”
"The thing I felt immediately is that people out there are caring and have compassion.  Thank God I belong to an organization that has heart."
"The reason for belonging to AMTA, for me, has always been how you all back us up - with education, standards - so when you gave us the kits, I said "that's my organization - Thank God."
"Our profession is grounded in being caring and nurturing…and like creating a gumbo, each ingredient creates an outcome.  So, just like creating a gumbo, AMTA provides ingredients and adds layers of caring and nurturing that help deepen our level of professionalism and makes us better massage therapists."
"It's a beautiful thing and makes me want to keep going (as a massage therapist)." Ellen LaRocca, Mandevile, LA

“I am writing with nothing but thanks and praise to the AMTA organization and staff for uniting in the effort to help all of the LMTs affected by Katrina [re: your MT Practitioner Member Rebuilding Kit & dues waiver].  I was awestruck at your generosity and concern – what a beautiful thing you have done, and it is so beneficial to both my business and my spirit!  Most importantly, your gracious acts of kindness have penetrated to beyond my world, because your efforts are helping me [and many other LMTs, I am sure!] to create the pathway of hope for our clients.  You see, I can share with them this story – of your generosity and concern – and watch their spirits soar!  It’s wonderful!”
 “…thank you from the depths of my heart.”
Leslie H. Glenn, River Ridge, LA

“I just wanted to write to you and say thank you so much. It means so much to know that people care in a time of need like this.”
Mandy Pepiak, Kenner, LA

“Words cannot express your generosity during this time of devastation.   I would like to say thanks for putting the Rebuilding Kits together for all of us who lost homes and businesses in the New Orleans area… Thanks again for your support and understanding.”  Sallye Raymond, New Orleans, LA

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the assistance to help jump start business that was interrupted with such ferocity from the storm Katrina.  Interruption of business with Hurricane Rita added to the situation.  The situation improves each day.  I am fortunate to live to the north of New Orleans so we were allowed back into our homes, etc, earlier.  AMTA's assistance has meant so much to me.  Thank you.” Linda Strickland, Mandeville, LA

“Please also accept my heartfelt gratitude for this extremely generous response on the part of AMTA to the catastrophes associated with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This leadership and altruistic effort by AMTA is indeed invaluable to myself and my fellow massage therapists in the devastated areas in terms of assisting many of us in re-building our practices in the New Orleans and surrounding communities. Please convey my sincere appreciation to all sectors of the AMTA responsible for this most sensitive display of concern and support. It shall never be forgotten!” Glenn M. Hymel, New Orleans, LA

“I am very excited at the prospect of receiving this very generous gift. Thank you very much again for your support. If there is anything I can do in the future for the AMTA please do ask.”    Mark Buehl, New Orleans, LA

“I just had to respond to tell you that I feel so fortunate to be part of an organization that is so helpful to all of its members.

I began to tear up when I read of the support offered to massage therapists following the hurricanes of this season…  I truly appreciate the AMTA.” Leanne L. Curtin, Commerce Township, MI

Some Member Stories

Angela Cadaro moved herself and her son to a neighboring state - permanently - right after the hurricane, so she could get him enrolled in school as soon as possible.  Angela has succeeded in getting a massage position with a chiropractor’s office. 

“Everyday I get up and look outside and see the progress.  That keeps me going and full of hope that there will be a new chapter in my career.” 

— Lester Trauth, Biloxi Mississippi

“In my experience, people are trying to get back to a semblance of what their lives were like before Katrina.  Massage is part of their comfort zone that makes them feel a little bit more normal.  I have people who are driving an hour and a half to get a massage.”

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