Niki Mastros Breitigan-Lannigan believes in spreading joy however she can, especially to the people who need it most. As the owner of Photini Skincare & Beauty at Genesis Asthetics in Manheim, she offers complimentary oncology facials for people who are battling cancer and for their caregivers, and she offers free 3D cosmetic tattoos for breast cancer survivors. She also hands out beanies at infusion centers and takes gift bags to people who are newly diagnosed and homebound from the effects of treatment.

Her heart for others and her belief that everyone deserves to feel special helped her win the title of Elite Ms. Mid-Atlantic Petite earlier this summer. She now represents New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania for Petite USA, a pageant for women who are 5 feet 6 inches or less, and she'll compete for Elite Ms. Petite National later this month.

Her platform is Nancy Lee's Bows and Beanies, named in honor of her mother, who passed away in March after being diagnosed with small cell lung cancer.

Niki, a breast cancer survivor, knows what it's like to be a cancer patient. "And I know what it's like being a caregiver and watching my mother and best friend suffer," she said. "I hate this disease and will help people for the rest of my life."

When she learned that her fellow esthetician and friend Jodi McCollough of Manheim had a reoccurrence of breast cancer, Niki took action. She's planning a fundraising event to benefit McCollough. It will be held on Friday, Sept. 29, at 606 Auction Road, Manheim. "Everyone is invited," Niki said. "We are having a live band, food and drinks. We will have a silent auction with donations people have given me."

As she prepares for her next competition, Niki is looking forward to spreading awareness of the need for support for cancer patients and caregivers. "I'm ready to bring my cause to the national level," she stated.

A proponent of using only non-toxic skin care and beauty products in her business, Niki has also been selected to be a judge for The Skin Games, a skin care competition for licensed professionals. "This is like the Oscars for the esthetics industry," she said of the competition that will be held in Atlanta in March of 2024.

With everything she does, Niki believes in making a difference in the lives of other people. "We are on this Earth for a very short time," she remarked. "I believe we need to help others and give back. Spread your light."

For more information on the benefit event, contact Niki at 717-623-4475.