I joined the military as young as one could. Finding that reinventing myself from a 17 year old kid, to being forced into manhood quicker than I could think, was something you truly find you have once in the midst of the chaos . I excelled in basic training and AIT training and became a section chief until graduation. Stationed at Ft. Riley Kansas as a 13B Cannon cocker. I was first chosen as driver and loader of a 26 ton self propelled howitzer. Soon after serving at my permanent duty station, I found myself being chosen out of about 140 soldiers to be on a 7 man team named REDDOG team, or Mad Dogs, affectionately. We were all expert in several weapons and had trained to be a quick reactionary team when needed.
I quickly found there were not many jobs in the civilian world requiring the skills to destroy things at both long and short range, I reached into my German roots and the memories of growing up eating amazing good food passed down through my family. The kitchens called me, and for many years I enjoyed cooking. Doing everything from running Hi end steak houses, to running a bakery as well as a catering company. After 17 years, I was convinced by loving family, that it was time to leave Columbia, move closer to my immediate blood, and try reinventing myself.
Soon after moving to Myrtle Beach, the thought of massage school popped into my head, as it did years prior. My sister urged me to call a private massage institute here, and upon making the call, was informed classes had started that day! If I wanted in the program, I needed to attend the evening class, and then the morning class to be able to attend the day class program. This was the final step in reinventing myself.
I owe a lot to so many people for where I am today. From family support, to friends that truly act as family in supporting me to continue doing what I love. I will be a licensed, professional therapist for 16 years this October, 2024. It has been a blessing to be able to help so many people heal over the years. Finally reinventing myself to my true calling.