( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Celebrating Self-Care and Strength, Breast Cancer Survivor Richina Lukes-Milledge Expands Her Vision of Healing and Empowerment
Photo Credit: Daniel J. Vasquez
This October, as I celebrated my birthday with intentions of calm, relaxation, and self-care, I found myself at the grand opening of L’Elite MediSpa’s newest location in Harlem. It felt like fate that Richina Lukes-Milledge, a breast cancer survivor and nurse practitioner, was celebrating the opening of her third wellness spa precisely when I’d committed to embracing renewal. The timing was magical—an excellent gift, aligning perfectly with my desire for peace and rejuvenation on my special day.
My experience at L’Elite MediSpa was extraordinary. I indulged in a personalized assessment, a soothing facial, and a deeply relaxing massage. The ambiance and the care I received were filled with empathy and professionalism, right down to every detail. The spa’s holistic approach helped me reset and reconnect with myself in ways I hadn’t anticipated. As the editor and publisher of ENSPIRE, I often get to spotlight inspiring stories. Still, this experience reminded me of the blessings I enjoy in doing what I love—even on my birthday, in a setting dedicated to well-being and empowerment.
Located at 1661 Madison Ave, L’Elite MediSpa’s new Harlem branch brings essential services to an underserved area. Specializing in treatments like IV vitamin infusions, bioidentical hormone therapy, peptide weight loss, and facials, the spa caters to individuals focused on holistic healing and self-care, particularly those recovering from illness. For Richina, this grand opening represents much more than business expansion; it culminates a profoundly personal journey.
Richina’s story is one of sheer willpower and reinvention. Diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer at the age of 32, she endured chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, only to find herself searching for ways to prevent recurrence. Motivated by her corporate nursing background, Richina dove into research on holistic treatments, such as glutathione, for its powerful antioxidant properties, eventually developing a regimen that transformed her health. This led her to leave a successful nursing career and establish L’Elite MediSpa, a sanctuary for those seeking the same healing journey she underwent.
“I went through hell and back, but I asked myself what I could do to prevent it from happening again,” Richina shared. “I didn’t just want to survive; I wanted to thrive. That journey is what built this business.”
The grand opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours, and a special Breast Cancer Awareness Month giveaway, underscoring Richina’s commitment to wellness and support for those in recovery. She seeks to foster community, compassion, and understanding with each client interaction. Her experiences have equipped her to deliver healing treatments and emotional support, empowering clients to regain their vitality and confidence.
L’Elite MediSpa’s Harlem location also aims to serve as an educational resource for the community. Through her nonprofit, L’Elite Cares, Richina has expanded her vision to offer vocational training and outreach programs that introduce locals to career opportunities in wellness and aesthetics, fields she believes can empower individuals economically and emotionally.
In sharing her journey, Richina offers more than just services—she shares hope. “If you have a dream, step out on faith and go for it. I was nervous and had setbacks, but I realized I needed to try, even if it wasn’t easy,” she says.
Attending this event inspired me to reflect on the importance of self-care, resilience, and giving back. Richina’s dedication to her community, courage to step into the unknown, and determination to turn her struggles into a source of strength are lessons we can all take to heart. Here’s to embracing every challenge, setback, and small victory, knowing that our journeys can inspire others.
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