From the age of four, dance has been my sanctuary—a space where I could express myself freely, step outside of the judgment of others, and connect with my body in ways that felt joyful and empowering. I immersed myself in the worlds of dance and gymnastics, creating outlets for myself over the years. Growing up, I faced years of bullying and criticism from both peers and adults. I was very thin no matter how much I ate, and people told me I would never be a “real woman” or be attractive to men as I grew older. Even within my ballet company as a teenager, some peers made cruel comments about my body, my looks and doubted my worth. These experiences left lasting scars, but dance always gave me a place to reclaim my confidence and explore my creativity.

I was born with Generalized Arterial Calcification of Infancy (GACI), a rare condition that is fatal for over half of babies diagnosed with it. I survived against incredible odds, one of the few to do so without major complications. By the age of 14, I began developing hearing loss and Meniere’s disease, which made life challenging. I was also diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) as a small child, and at the time there weren’t many resources around this condition. Growing up with APD was isolating—teachers often misinterpreted my needs, and I was frequently treated as “stupid” because I learned differently. My peers reinforced this belief, and for years, I doubted my own intelligence and ability to succeed academically, which contributed to my decision to wait until after having my son to pursue college. I am now in college, working toward becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant, with plans to continue my education and earn my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

Throughout my life, I also experienced sexual assault and being taken advantage of by men, and I know firsthand the pain and disempowerment that can come from these experiences. These challenges, combined with years of bullying and body shaming, shaped my understanding of trauma, boundaries, and the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment for others to explore their bodies and confidence. Despite these hardships, dance remained a constant source of strength. I trained intensely in ballet, modern, tap, and jazz for nearly two decades, even as adults and teachers doubted my potential. I was in two different pre professional ballet companies during my teen years, which helped me learn the hard work it takes to succeed.

As an adult, I also worked as an exotic dancer—not as a response to insecurities or for validation, but as a path to financial independence, freedom to travel, and the ability to pursue other dreams. The attention I sought from men was outside of that environment, and while there is nothing inherently wrong with exotic dancing, I am aware of the patriarchal and often harmful dynamics within that industry. My experience gave me insight into how societal pressures affect women’s bodies and how important it is to create spaces where empowerment is the focus, not judgment.

In 2023, I was diagnosed with a vascular condition called May-Thurner Syndrome, which required a stent to improve blood flow. While I am no longer bedridden, I continue to manage residual leg circulation issues, hip bursitis from prolonged sitting, and the lingering effects of chronic migraines—an issue I had lived with for many years but have since resolved with proper medication. Experiencing periods of pain, swelling, and physical limitations gave me a new perspective on the obstacles many people face with their bodies. These experiences inspire me to ensure my classes are accessible, inclusive, and fun, creating a space where no one feels excluded from enjoying adult-themed movement, regardless of physical challenges.

This journey led me to create Risque Business Studio, a dance instruction business dedicated to empowerment, self-expression, and rewriting your story with your body. My classes draw on decades of experience across multiple dance forms, offering students a space to move safely, explore sensuality, and reclaim confidence—regardless of body type, experience level, past trauma, or physical limitations. Living with multiple medical conditions, hearing loss, learning differences, and past physical challenges has strengthened my empathy and shaped the way I teach. I understand what it’s like to feel misunderstood, unsafe, or excluded. That perspective guides every class I lead, creating a nurturing, educational, and compassionate environment where students can heal, grow, and embrace the strength and beauty within themselves.

At Risque Business Studio, it’s not just about dance—it’s about reclaiming your body, your confidence, and your story. I help students rediscover the curious, empowered person they were always meant to be, and I celebrate every step they take toward owning their power and embracing themselves fully.