Milani – Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Originally from the Philippines with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Milani Amistoso came to Canada and worked as a healthcare aide for several years. But life took an unexpected turn in 2017 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. 

She struggled with depression after a mastectomy and was looking for a path forward.  

“The decision to pursue massage therapy felt natural,” says Milani. “I grew up with my grandmother, who is a massage therapist in the Philippines and I saw her doing massage so it’s kind of my passion too. I heard from friends about the MaKami Advanced Clinical Massage Therapy program and their success inspired me.” 

MaKami’s blended weekend program proved perfect for her needs, allowing Milani to continue working while studying.  

“Being on campus kept me busy. I had friends around me to talk with, and my instructors were supportive in many ways,” she says.  

Milani finished the program in June 2022. After graduating, she opened a home-based clinic while also offering mobile services. But carrying equipment into clients’ homes proved challenging and invasive.

When she saw a Facebook advertisement for a dental hygiene van, inspiration struck. 

“I thought to myself, if a big dentist chair fits, a massage table will work in the van, too,” she says. After two years of saving money, Milani and her family were able purchase a van in 2025.

Today, Milani operates her unique mobile massage clinic—Milani Warm Touch Massage. Instead of entering clients’ homes, she parks her fully-equipped van in their driveway and provides spa-quality treatments. 

“I knew I didn’t want a massage clinic, I wanted something unique,” she says. “Something where I can go anywhere. I don’t want to be stuck in one place.” 

Her clients love the concept. “They say the inside of the van is really like a spa, and it’s very relaxing,” she says.  

Milani continues working part-time as a healthcare aide, but now has more control over her time and finances. She hopes to expand her business further, with more vans, even bringing her services to senior care facilities. 

“Don’t stop believing. Keep on dreaming,” Milani advises others who are considering taking a program at MaKami. “If you want to do something, have a mindset of it, focus on it. And with the support of your family and with God’s grace, you can achieve it.”