A blind massage therapist in Orland Park, Illinois, is making a significant impact in his community by offering free massages to single parents. Steven Stewart, who opened Unsighted Massage in September 2023, aims to give back to those who, like his mother, have made sacrifices for their families.
Stewart, now in his 30s, lost his sight eight years ago but has found a renewed sense of purpose in his work. “I’m in a better place now than I was back then — physically, emotionally, mentally — just all of the above,” he explained. Transitioning from a career as a forklift driver, he pursued a diploma in massage therapy from Moraine Valley Community College, graduating in 2023. His journey led him to set up his practice within Nicole Richards Hair Salon, located at 7040 W. 159th St.
His initiative to provide free massages to single parents stems from personal experiences. Stewart honors the sacrifices made by his mother, who raised 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 stated.
Stewart promoted his first massage giveaway in November 2023, coinciding with a time when many families in Illinois were struggling due to a federal government shutdown that resulted in the loss of SNAP benefits for approximately 2 million residents. Moved by the plight of these families, he decided to extend help where he could.
Support for Stewart’s efforts has come from unexpected sources. Tracy Beagarie, who discovered his practice through social media, booked a massage and offered to create charcuterie boards for the single parents receiving the massages. Beagarie, a mother herself, expressed her belief in the importance of kindness, stating, “To see his post just kind of hit that heart string for me.” She also plans to bake cookies for the parents to accompany their massages.
Stewart’s initiative has resonated deeply within the community. He mentioned that while he intended to provide five massages, the emotional stories shared by individuals in his social media comments prompted him to expand his outreach, eventually offering services to at least ten parents. One particularly poignant encounter left a lasting impression on him. “I had one client who broke down in tears just because of how bad she was struggling,” he recounted.
Although he is committed to helping, Stewart emphasized the importance of integrity in the application process, reminding potential recipients that only verified single parents should apply for the giveaway.
The support he has received from Mary Lynn Fleck, owner of Nicole Richards Hair Salon, has been instrumental in his journey. Fleck, who has been a client of Stewart’s since he opened his practice, praised his dedication and the unique bond they share. Diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after purchasing the salon, she has benefited from Stewart’s lymphatic drainage therapy. “It was the best night’s sleep I got throughout my whole chemo treatment,” she affirmed.
Fleck believes Stewart’s commitment to community service aligns perfectly with the values of her salon. She stated, “Whatever he wants, I fully support him. Anything we can do to help him, we’re all there.” Their mutual understanding of overcoming personal challenges has fostered a strong partnership, with both individuals motivated to uplift those around them.
As Stewart continues to expand his practice and help others, his story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the impact of giving back. Through his efforts, he not only honors his mother but also supports single parents navigating their own struggles, demonstrating that acts of kindness can create waves of positive change in the community.