We had the good fortune of connecting with Shannon Troyan and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shannon, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After over seven years in sales, I wasn’t getting the fulfillment anymore that I once was and didn’t feel like my purpose here on earth was being met. I always felt like there was something more I needed to be doing, but was just too scared to make the jump. After the universe (such a beautiful thing) throwing one thing after another at me and lining things up so perfectly, I was ready to leave corporate and get back in the treatment room full time offering medical grade skincare treatments to all clients, and really be able to dive in deeper into the Areola restoration tattooing/oncology treatments, which has always been a goal of mine to be able to offer to clients. I want to have a space where clients can come and get the care and support they need, but may not be getting within the care they’re currently receiving.
Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
In 2020 I was diagnosed with the BARD1 gene, with having high risk of getting breast cancer in my lifetime. That same year, I had a bilateral mastectomy and reconstructive surgery to lower my chances and to secure my spot here in this world the best I can for my daughter. That further ignited my fire with creating a safe space for those that are either going through cancer treatment, to help provide some sort of comfort and guidance on how to care for their skin and for those who have lost their nipples/areolas due to having a mastectomy or transgender and/or non-binary who have had top surgery, to help complete their journey. Whether it’s going through treatment or having surgery, it takes a toll on your mental state and that part is often not talked about. I want to share their stories (if they are inclined to) and help raise awareness, in hopes of creating better processes for the future.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a foodie, so we’ll definitely be hitting up The Coronado, North Italia, Rough Rider (have to get the oysters), Crescent Ballroom and/or Belly.
For drinks, hopping around downtown Phoenix favoring Valley Bar, Highball, Pigtails and Gracies and for live music, Crescent Ballroom (dinner and a show is ideal) or The Van Buren.
For fun snacks/wine, we’ll head to Monsoon Market and have a backyard hang feasting on all the treats we get.
There’s also a bunch of places I feel like I haven’t checked out yet, so we can add those to the itinerary because I love checking out new spots. 🥳
Alright, so let’s jump right in! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there a person, group, organization, book, etc. that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?
I’ve had many family members and close friends family be affected by cancer, which is the reason I’m so passionate about offering these services. Watching my father go through chemo and radiation, and the toll it took on his skin, was heartbreaking. Patients going through treatment, more often than not, have no idea how to care for their skin and have very little guidance. That’s where I want to help bridge that gap.
Website: www.Skinfitaz.com
Instagram: The.Shannon.Glow
Linkedin: Shannon Troyan