Growing up in a home that encouraged health, wellness, and prevention, is how Desiree van Oosting landed into her calling of professional massage. But, it was the why, how, and the alluring adventure of Race Across America to raise awareness for Gaia Home that took over her curiosity, which ultimately led her to joining the team as its official massage therapist. 

“I know how strong the four women are on this team and it is an honor to help them on this journey as Gaia Home represents a beautiful way to support a loved one and their family through the final journey on this earth.” 

Occasionally commuting 60 miles via bike to arrive at her business in the summer months, Desiree is no stranger to cycling. She also understands the power of pedaling for charity as it was her and her mother that helped her brother map out the Empire State Ride, a 500+ mile cycling adventure from New York City to Niagara Falls that now annually raises funds to fuel cancer research. “My mom and I were the original crew, along with my brother, Terry Bourgeois, who created ESR. We traveled for a week setting up and taking down a camper through the state of NY while my brother mapped the ride out. However, the biggest differences between ESR and RAAM are speed, sleep, and distance.”

This June, with the LS&G team, Desiree will have another journey to celebrate, that of spending her 50th year around the sun on an adventure of a lifetime. 

Fun fact: She ran the entire 2018 Boston Marathon with a shower cap on, which was very chic and cleverly warm.