Local massage business offers free services to area doctors and nurses - Oneida Dispatch

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Hamilton, N.Y. — COVID-19 has shown the world a lot of pain, but it has also provided many opportunities for kindness.

Some of that kindness is coming out of Hamilton, where Jackie Schiavone, owner of Hamilton Massage Therapy and Wellness Center, and her team of dedicated massage therapists are giving back in a big way: providing up to 30 minutes of free massage to area doctors and nurses needing a little R&R.

Schiavone knew from the beginning of the pandemic that she wanted to do something to help her community, but what? Should she send area nurses food? Coffee? Other generous neighbors seemed to already have these areas covered.


Later in the year, after her massage business reopened after being shut down for almost four months due to COVID restrictions, she would present to her therapists the idea of giving free massage — something that stressed healthcare personnel could certainly take advantage of to recharge.

"I figured the best thing we could offer is our time, our hearts, and our hands. All of my therapists were so extremely happy to offer this service to our local doctors and nurses. This was a group decision by all of us. I’m extremely blessed to have the best group of therapists at my business," Schiavone said.

A 30-minute relaxation massage, which is being offered at zero cost for doctors and nurses, holds a $40 value.

Hamilton Massage Therapy and Wellness Center, located at 5 Madison St. is committed to presenting this offer as long as they can. Staggering the zero-cost 30-minute sessions among their regularly scheduled appointments may not be possible forever, but the power of giving means everything in the present. Those seeking this service opportunity are often tacking on extra minutes at their own expense, Schiavone said, to have an extended and discounted relaxing getaway. So far, nearly 10 healthcare workers have inquired.


Giving back to healthcare personnel is important to Schiavone in a personal way, as her mother was hospitalized with COVID-19 in December at Hamilton Hospital. Some of the nurses and doctors, who are also Hamilton Massage patients, cared for her mom and attentively answered all of Schiavone's questions during that difficult time. "I’m forever grateful. My mom came home right before Christmas," she shared.

The offer for the free massage was never publicized; it was sent directly to existing patients via email for them to take advantage of. Oneida Dispatch reporter Carly Stone so happened to be an existing client, and from there, the good news just had to be shared.

"I didn’t want this to be about attention or publicity to our business. I simply wanted to do an act of kindness, to show our appreciation and gratitude," Schiavone remarked.

"My heart is melting that you are offering this," wrote a nurse practitioner who cared for Schiavone's mom in response to the offer email. "It is an honor for me to take care of patients, and I don't ever feel like I need anything in return, but to know that there are people such as yourself out there that would like to return the kindness is heartwarming."

To inquire about getting on the list for a free 30-minute relaxation massage as a doctor or nurse working in or around the Hamilton area during the pandemic, email Schiavone at [email protected]. All names will be placed on a list, and appointments will be staggered to accommodate therapists’ schedules and time to the best of their ability. Extra massage-time can be added to the appointment at the client’s expense. Hamilton Massage Therapy and Wellness Center reserves the right to end the offer at any time.

Additionally, to help keep the massages going, anyone can sponsor a massage for a nurse or doctor or simply donate money to pass a massage forward. Visit Hamilton Massage Therapy and Wellness Center's website and click on the shopping cart icon labeled "View our Special Deals" to find an option to donate.