URGENT UPDATE: Steven Stewart, a blind massage therapist in Orland Park, is making headlines for his heartwarming initiative to offer five free massages to single parents in his community. This generous giveaway, announced recently, aims to support families facing financial hardships, particularly in light of recent SNAP benefit cuts affecting millions in Illinois.
Stewart, who opened Unsighted Massage within Nicole Richards Hair Salon on 159th Street in September, transformed his life after losing his sight eight years ago. “I’m in a better place now than I was back then — physically, emotionally, mentally,” Stewart stated. His journey from forklift driver to massage therapist is driven by a desire to give back to those in similar situations, especially single parents who struggle to make ends meet.
In a powerful gesture of support, Stewart plans to select recipients for the free massages through social media entries. He emphasizes that his motivation stems from his own experiences growing up with a single mother who sacrificed everything for him and his siblings. “A lot of my overhead is my time and my hands, and I don’t mind giving that to people,” he said.
The initiative comes at a critical time, as many families are grappling with the fallout from a federal government shutdown that left approximately 2 million Illinoisans without vital SNAP benefits. Stewart was inspired to act after seeing news stories about families struggling to afford basic necessities.
Tracy Beagarie, a client who discovered Stewart through social media, is joining the effort by creating charcuterie boards to accompany the massages. “You don’t always need the recognition for doing nice things,” Beagarie said. She plans to bake cookies for the parents receiving free massages, reinforcing the spirit of community support.
Stewart’s outreach has already exceeded expectations, with plans to provide assistance to at least 10 families after being moved by the emotional stories shared on his social media. “I had one client who broke down in tears just because of how bad she was struggling,” he recalled. While Stewart aims to help, he stresses that only single parents should apply for this giveaway to ensure the support reaches those truly in need.
The salon owner, Mary Lynn Fleck, has also praised Stewart’s dedication and impact on the community. Fleck, who is currently battling breast cancer, has personally benefited from Stewart’s therapeutic services, finding relief through lymphatic drainage treatments. “It was the best night’s sleep I got throughout my whole chemo treatment,” she said, expressing gratitude for Stewart’s compassionate care.
As Stewart continues to build his practice, he remains committed to his mission of giving back. “Whatever he wants, I fully support him. Anything we can do to help him, we’re all there,” Fleck affirmed.
This initiative not only highlights Stewart’s resilience but also showcases the power of community in times of need. With the giveaway set to take place soon, local residents are encouraged to share Stewart’s message and participate in this heartwarming outreach.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring story, and consider supporting local efforts to help single parents in your community.
