Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

River Oaks Galleria (ROG) Medspa was inspired by the cancer journeys of Dr. Usoro's parents and her very close friend, who lost her battle to cancer. Each individual, despite their cancer diagnosis, embarked upon a journey of self care to reclaim and revive their health, wellness, and self esteem - as cancer therapy can have long lasting effects on an individual’s skin health, hair health, gut health, functional capacity, and psyche. The aim is for everyone to look and feel their best.

How do you stay motivated?

Not wanting to let my family and friend down keep me motivated. In the days leading up to my close friend's death from stage IV colorectal cancer, her only wish was to look her best and have her hair done. Unfortunately, she did not make it to the hair appointment that I had scheduled for her, and that guilt has had a longstanding impact on me. It reinforced my belief that LOOKING and FEELING your best go hand-in-hand, even when life is most challenging. I cannot fail because she is watching me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

In 2022, there were 1.9 million new cases of cancer in the US, with the expectation for over 2 million new cancer cases in 2025. 5 year survival rates are highest with cancers that are found early. Cancer early detection is a wellness service that we offer but can be cost prohibitive. With the $25,000 award, I would create a client assistance program for those interested in cancer early detection, as well as, support marketing activities to increase awareness about our early detection service.