In 2001, Cathy Turner faced life-altering auto injuries, with only a 2 out of 10 chance of survival. Today, she shares her remarkable journey, highlighting the pivotal role that massage has played in her healing process. From daily challenges to the profound impact of alternative treatments, Cathy’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and the pursuit of inner peace.
Discovering Cloud 9
Frequent visits to the Houston Medical Center prompted Cathy and Charles to relocate from Alvin to Houston. Cathy found solace in the therapeutic benefits of massage and discovered Cloud 9 in 2014 when we opened our first location in the Houston Medical Center. Cathy was one of our original customers, visiting us in June of 2014, just 4 months after we first opened! For years, Cathy supported Cloud 9 but remained open to trying different establishments in search of her favorite go-to therapist. In 2016, they purchased a home in Pearland, Texas and when we opened our Pearland location in 2019, she discovered her favorite therapists, Jack and Annie. Over the years, Cathy says that Cloud 9 has become essential to her wellness routine, providing support during difficult times.
“I believe in massage; everyone should have one for maintenance. My friends love visiting Cloud 9 when they come to see us. My friend Karen S., a nutritionist, lives four hours away and always makes a stop at Cloud 9. It’s usually our gift to her for helping us.”
A Lifelong Belief in Massage
Cathy is especially interested in Chinese Reflexology but balances her appointments with Swedish Body Massages when she needs to focus on specific areas. Cathy passionately advocates for the benefits of massage as a maintenance tool for overall well-being. Reflecting on her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of self-care, especially for those facing health challenges. From reflexology and full-body massages to Cryotherapy, Cathy explores various modalities that have become integral to her healing journey.
“This week, I fell while mopping the floor. I went to the chiropractor, who recommended Cloud 9. Why rely on drugs, bed rest, or even surgery when there is something that can help? While this doesn’t apply to everything, we miss so much by not using massage—especially Chinese or Thai. Those are the best for me.”
Navigating Life with an Invisible Disability
Before her accident, Cathy was a manager at the Woman’s Hospital of Texas, working closely with the Houston Mayor’s office. Due to her injuries, Cathy now spends her time writing for various sites and creating videos for London doc, an annual documentary film festival featuring work from up-and-coming artists worldwide. Cathy emphasizes the importance of having a set of de-stressors. She and her husband Charles frequently travel by cruising, which accommodates her disabilities. She also enjoys singing, riding in golf carts, swimming, going to the beach, writing, and, most importantly, helping others. Cathy says making an effort towards living a fulfilling life is key.
“If I want to have quality of life, I must do things that promote health. While I must use some medications for my accident and brain injury, we have weaned off most meds and use other treatments. Being positive in mind and spirit is important. Many aren’t taught that concept, and our culture of medicine does not teach that either.”
Cathy’s Perspective on Peace
Despite her challenges, Cathy remains a beacon of positivity. Her unwavering optimism and dedication to holistic wellness inspire us all at Cloud 9. Cathy believes that a fulfilling life involves proactive health and well-being measures. She finds joy and peace through self-care, supported by therapeutic massages at Cloud 9. Her journey highlights the importance of mental and physical harmony, inspiring others with her experiences and advocacy for a collaborative approach to wellness. Cathy’s story exemplifies the power of positivity and holistic healing practices.
“Many ask how I maintain peace despite my situation. Even during tough times, we were happy because peace comes from within. It’s not about material possessions but being content with life and making the best of it. No one can take it away—we give it permission.”
