Writer / Kara Reibel
Carolyn Smith grew up in a large family surrounded by love and support, and that is exactly what she brings to her spa. The Ribbon Spa is a haven for women going through treatment for cancer. Inside you will find no reminders of the challenges facing many of the clients, only a peaceful place for salon services.
The Ribbon is open to anyone seeking a relaxing salon experience, and supporting the spa makes a difference for others. Patrons may sponsor someone going through the challenging diagnosis and treatment phases of cancer.
Generous donations helped make The Ribbon a reality for Smith. The National Bank of Indianapolis and St. Vincent’s Health have been wonderful with their support of the mission for The Ribbon, as has the generosity of private donors. “I am so grateful for the support of this mission,” says Smith, “It is important to me to provide comfort and love to those in treatment.”
Two of Carolyn’s sisters were in treatment simultaneously several years ago, both with breast cancer. One of her sisters is a survivor. Seeing how a simple spa service helped her sisters through a difficult time, she was motivated to provide services for free to those in treatment. “It’s such a wonderful way to lift your spirits and pamper yourself at a difficult time,” says Smith. Sensitive to the needs of those going through chemotherapy and radiation, Smith, who has been a nail professional for 34 years, uses only natural products that are free of potentially irritating ingredients.
Recently celebrating their second year in business, Smith emphasizes that the celebration is about her clients and their achievements, not hers. Located in the cottage at the Riviera Club (5640 N. Illinois Street, Indianapolis), The Ribbon is working for a cure.
RibbonSpa.com; 317-253-2873. Find them on Facebook: The Ribbon Spa for a Cause
