Riding more than 500 miles a day across New York State can be a lot on your body, and that’s why licensed massage therapists (LMTs) are along for the journey as well. Empire State Ride (ESR) road warriors can sign up daily for massages during their seven-day cycling adventure. The massages are 30 minutes long and $50 at the rider’s expense.
The LMTs on the road are not only experienced and well-versed in their craft, but many of them also feel personally called to ESR’s mission to end cancer.
Graziella Androne
Graziella is from Albany, New York! She has been working at Active Therapeutic Massage and Wellness in Clifton Park for three years. She also opened a new business, Complementary Angles Massage PLLC, in Schenectady this past year. She loves attending ESR because she is personally connected to the mission. She has lost a few loved ones to cancer.
“The people make the event. Creating relationships with those I’ve seen for multiple years at the event and the enthusiasm of everyone involved whether it be the staff or the riders is what makes it all worthwhile.”
She says being able to offer what she loves for the riders who need the massages after days of riding is very fulfilling.
Donna Bridges
Donna grew up in the Buffalo, New York area, where Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is located. She has been a massage therapist since 2003, and she works at Southtowns Medi Spa.
“In April 2010, my dad lost his battle with lung cancer just six weeks after he was diagnosed. After I lost him, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families.”
That June, she decided to participate in Ride for Roswell, a Buffalo-based Roswell Park cycling fundraiser, and she has returned every year since.
In 2017, she rode in ESR with her two oldest brothers in memory of their dad. “It was a challenging and unforgettable week where we met so many incredible people, some being cancer survivors themselves.”
Donna came back to the event in 2019 as a massage therapist, and she has stayed with the team since then! “It’s extremely rewarding being part of the team that aids in the recovery and relaxation of the riders who are pushing their bodies to the limits.”
Kirsten Bjalme-Evans
Kirsten received her education at the Center for Natural Wellness in Albany, New York. She became a Licensed Massage Therapist in March of 2020. Along with Swedish Massage and Reiki, Kirsten has training in Polarity, Myofascial Release, Reflexology, Sport, Craniosacral Therapy and Aromatherapy.
She is forever in pursuit of learning how to make herself more proficient in all modalities. Kirsten is expanding her knowledge in eastern bodywork and medicine, all in the hopes to help clients find their way to better whole body health.
Jillian Blaszkowiak
Jillian is a NYS Licensed Massage Therapist and insured member of the American Massage Therapy Association. She completed a two-year hands-on education program at The New York Institute of Massage in July of 2021, and she received her License for Massage in October 2021.
Outside of work, Jill enjoys spending time in nature, playing volleyball, and hanging out with her dog.
Jill’s appreciation for natural healing led her to her career in massage therapy. She believes everyone deserves to feel a sense of peace in their body, and she strives to provide that for her clients in a comfortable and healing space.
Krysta Cwynar
Krysta is the owner and co-founder of Universal Strength Wellness Center. She specializes in deep tissue massage, assisted stretching, cupping therapy and sports massage. She has worked with professional athletes, including the Buffalo Bandits, to help them stay refreshed, focused and ready for every game. Krysta says her experience as an LMT for ESR in 2023 was lifechanging.
“The road warriors inspired me so deeply that I became a rider myself in 2024. Watching each rider show up every day, hearing their stories and witnessing their unwavering strength is by far the most inspiring and my favorite part of the week. Losing my best friend to cancer in 2017 was a defining moment in my life, and I vowed to do whatever it takes to help cure cancer.”
Krysta believes ESR has given her a way to channel that passion into action. “I’m honored to be part of this incredible community.”
Amy Kincaid
Amy is from the Schenectady area, and she is an owner of Active Therapeutic Massage and Wellness in Clifton Park. She has been a massage therapist with Empire State Ride for three years.
“Cancer has affected many family members and friends and I look forward to being at ESR each year.”
Amy enjoys getting to know the riders, working with them after they’ve had a long day on the bike and helping them get ready for the next day’s ride.
Kristina Locci
Kristina works at Capital District Massage in Albany, New York. She has been a massage therapist since 2011, working at CDM since February 2013.
“Supporting ESR allows me to be a part of something spectacular in the fight against cancer. My favorite part of this ride is hearing the stories from the riders. Honestly, I just enjoy the whole experience.” This will be her fourth year on the road during ESR.
Jennifer Risenhoover
Jennifer is one of the owners of Active Therapeutic Massage and Wellness in Clifton Park, New York. She has been a massage therapist for six years.
“I started massaging for Empire State Ride three years ago in honor of my step father who passed from cancer in April of 2022. I look forward to seeing all the riders each year and being a part of this amazing foundation.”
Abby Rockwood
Abby is an LMT and the owner of Breathe in Massage by Abby. She is from Hamburg/Buffalo, New York. She has been an LMT for more than three years, and this is her fourth year working ESR.
“I was first invited on this fantastic adventure by a fellow LMT. Like many on this ride, I have had several family members receive treatment through Roswell Park and I knew ESR was something I wanted to be a part of.”
Her favorite thing about ESR is the energy of all the riders.
“It is truly contagious and what brings me back each year!”
Want to get involved?
Are you interested in being a part of Empire State Ride without the 500+ mile commitment? Join the adventure as a volunteer!