From War and Peace to Health and Wellness

Kay Hechler, 51, is looking forward to surrounding herself with health and wellness as she celebrates her 11^th year as a breast cancer survivor. After double mastectomies and chemotherapy in 2013, Hechler began receiving massages to help the recovery from surgeries and treatments and then to continue the active lifestyle that she has always enjoyed. Hechler grew up in Montgomery County, Maryland, where she attended the Holton-Arms School. She went on to graduate with a double major in English and French literature from the University of Pennsylvania. Beginning her career in the publishing industry in New York, she returned to the DC area in 1990 to be with family in Maryland and to continue her work in publishing. For 24 years, Hechler managed the business, marketing, and rights operations for the publishing program at the United States Institute of Peace. John Phillips, Hechler’s husband of 13 years, will be involved in the financial side of Hand & Stone. Phillips grew up in Alliance, Ohio and graduated with a degree in marketing management from the University of Toledo. He has been working as an earned value management and scheduling specialist since 1990, and will continue in his position at CSC while supporting Hechler at Hand & Stone. Both avid golfers, Hechler and Phillips credit massage for enjoying more stress relief, greater flexibility, and longer drives. How did you learn about Hand & Stone and why did you take an opportunity with the brand? Hechler:  Last year I started thinking about the fact that I spend a lot of time in the fitness and wellness industry and began considering business opportunities that would marry my interest in wellness with my business expertise. I began researching the massage industry and different companies and ultimately fell in love with Hand & Stone and its corporate team, whose members are both professionally and personally committed to the industry. I also spoke to many of the Hand and Stone franchisees: like myself they are passionate about massage, wellness, and Hand & Stone. Why will Hand & Stone thrive in the community? Hechler: Gaithersburg is a township unto itself within Montgomery County, and The Kentlands is a charming neighborhood community with a large retail center that combines shopping with entertainment. It’s a place where people go for day-to-day errands as well as a destination for dining and recreation. Are you involved with any charities or community outreach programs? I have been a volunteer with the Reach to Recovery program of the American Cancer Society, which supports people going through breast cancer diagnosis and treatments. I also serve on the Advisory Board for the Washington Publishing Association and am a member of the Gaithersburg Chamber of Commerce.