Blind massage therapist Steven Stewart is making a meaningful impact in the Orland Park community by offering free massage sessions to single parents. Operating out of Unsighted Massage, located within Nicole Richards Hair Salon, Stewart is utilizing his skills to give back to those in need, particularly in light of challenging circumstances faced by many families.
Stewart, who lost his sight eight years ago, credits his vision impairment with propelling him into a career in massage therapy. He transitioned from his previous job as a forklift driver to pursue this path, finding fulfillment in helping others. “I’m in a better place now than I was back then — physically, emotionally, mentally — just all of the above,” he shared.
The initiative to provide free massages stems from Stewart’s desire to honor his mother, a single parent who sacrificed for her children. He plans to randomly select five single parents from social media entries, emphasizing that he understands the struggles they face. “A lot of my overhead is my time and my hands, and I don’t mind giving that to people,” Stewart explained.
Community Support and Generosity
Stewart’s first massage giveaway was announced in November, coinciding with a period when approximately 2 million Illinois residents lost their SNAP benefits due to a federal government shutdown. His decision to help was influenced by news reports detailing the struggles of families trying to afford basic necessities.
Support came unexpectedly from Tracy Beagarie, who had initially booked a massage with Stewart before his giveaway announcement. After connecting during her appointment, Beagarie decided to contribute by making charcuterie boards for the single parents receiving massages. She expressed her belief that acts of kindness do not require recognition, saying, “You don’t always need the recognition for doing nice things.”
The duo’s efforts expanded beyond the initial plan, resulting in at least 10 single parents benefiting from their generosity. Stewart noted that many stories shared by clients deeply affected him, illustrating the emotional weight of their circumstances. “I had one client who broke down in tears just because of how bad she was struggling,” he recalled.
Building a Supportive Community
The salon owner, Mary Lynn Fleck, is another supporter of Stewart’s initiative. She has witnessed his commitment to his practice and the relationships he has built with clients. Fleck, who was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after acquiring the salon, has personally benefited from Stewart’s lymphatic drainage therapy, which provided significant relief during her treatment. “It was the best night’s sleep I got throughout my whole chemo treatment,” she stated.
Stewart and Fleck have formed a strong bond, united by their respective challenges. She appreciates his dedication to giving back, claiming, “There are not many people who could have their sight taken away and turn around and give back as much as Steven has given back.”
As Stewart continues to grow Unsighted Massage, he remains committed to lifting up those around him, particularly single parents in his community, embodying a spirit of compassion and support. His work exemplifies how personal adversity can lead to positive community impact, inspiring others to contribute in meaningful ways.
