EAST HADDAM -- As the best athletes in the world prepare for the Olympic Games later this summer, massage therapy is undoubtedly a part of their schedule. Meanwhile, massage therapist Maryla Radziszewski, of East Haddam, is getting ready for Rio too.
“Every trainer and every professional athlete knows that massage therapy will help them a lot to get to the highest level of competition,” said Radziszewski.
She was selected by the international and Brazilian Olympic committees to work with gymnasts from all over the globe at the Games in Rio. She applied almost two years ago, but just received the final word in March that she was officially chosen.
“That was my goal since I went to massage school,” said Radziszewski, who has been a massage therapist for six years.
She said, “That’s going to be a great experience to be able to work on those athletes whose bodies are so tense and at the same time, such perfect form. You cannot ask for more than that.”
Radziszewski is also a personal trainer and health coach, and owns Morefit, an optimal health club in East Haddam.
“I think that’s what set me apart that I do know a little bit more than just the massage,” said Radziszewski, when asked why she believes she was chosen.
But being accepted is only one step on her road to Rio. Volunteers like Radziszewski have to pay for their own flights, hotels, meals and everything in between.
“Many people don’t know that it’s an all-volunteer position,” she said. “They only give us uniforms and accreditation and I believe they will supply lunch during the times I will work over there.”
Radziszewski’s daughter started a GoFundMe page to raise money for her trip and help make her Olympic dreams come true. The fundraising goal is $10,000, and she's raised nearly 10 % in the first week. She plans to leave for Rio on August 5.
“I’m hoping that it’s not going to be my last Olympics and that four years from now I will be going to the Olympics in Tokyo. I still have goals,” Radziszewski said.
