BEING separated from her husband 18 years ago, Linda Berdon had no choice but to work hard to earn income for her four children.
Berdon got her chance to earn for her family when she underwent a reflexology training.
She has since offered a reflexology home service to her growing number of clients.
Her home service business started in 2000.
Berdon, who was then president of the Women’s Association in barangay Tipolo, undertook a reflexology training sponsored by San Miguel Corp.
Of the 30 members who joined the two-week reflexology training and another six-month practical training, only three members continue to practice the profession today.
Reflexology is a natural healing art that involves stimulating and putting pressure on the foot and hand. Reflexologists believe that reflexes in the foot and hand correspond to a certain body part.
Berdon said she used her prior knowledge about human anatomy to enhance her reflexology skills and offer therapy sessions to her clients.
Berdon graduate with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1979 from the Cebu Doctors’ University and her three years of study in Medicine.
Berdon used to also work in Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center Hospital as Hospice volunteer to care for some of their patients in 2000.
“Because of that prior work, I was able to get referrals for clients from the doctors in Vicente Sotto,” said Berdon, who continues to offer reflexology sessions to clients.
For a session, Berdon charges P200 to her clients.
The business, which she started 11 years ago, helped Berdon support her children’s education.
Her eldest, Michael, already finished Bachelor of Science in Customs, and her second, Meike, finished a degree in computer science.
Her third child will graduate from college this March, while her youngest is still in high school.
In a day, Berdon services at least five clients and on good days 12 clients at most in a day helping her earn at least P1,000.
Berdon joined Kapamilya Negosyo Na last year and was among the top 10 winners.
“They just call me and I go to their house for the service. Because I offer therapies, I also do multiple servicing until my clients feel better,” said Berdon.
According to Berdon her goal now is to set up a training center where she can train other women to practice reflexology and then offer services to her clients.
She, however, needs an investment of at least P100,000 to set up the center.
Another problem that Berdon is facing is her lack of hold on the people she trains for free.
Despite the challenges, she is optimistic of making her dream a reality. She draws strength by taking stock of how she started and where she is today.