Lash & Brow by Kateryna: Business Owner Faces Uncertain Future After Unexpected Health Diagnosis
Jessheim, Norway – Kateryna Karlsen, owner of the popular beauty salon Lash & Brow by Kateryna, is facing an uncertain future after receiving a diagnosis of a prolapse that impacts her ability to work. The diagnosis came after experiencing severe pain and collapsing on the runway at Gardermoen Airport while preparing for a long-awaited vacation to Madeira, Portugal.
Sudden Illness and Diagnosis
Karlsen experienced intense pain and lost consciousness while waiting for her flight. Fortunately, a couple onboard—both neurologists and emergency nurses—provided immediate assistance before medical personnel arrived. After multiple visits to the emergency room and her general practitioner, an MRI scan revealed the cause of the pain: a prolapse.
Impact on Business
The condition has left Karlsen unable to perform the intricate finger movements required for her work in lash and brow treatments. “When working with lashes, you have to use your fingers in different techniques. It is completely impossible for me now,” she stated to Romerikes Blad. This poses a significant threat to her business, which she described as her “little empire.”
From Teacher to Entrepreneur
Originally from Ukraine, Karlsen initially worked as an English and German teacher after moving to Norway. She found the Norwegian school system didn’t suit her, stating she didn’t experience aligned with the culture and system despite being offered a permanent position. She then discovered her passion for the beauty industry, establishing Lash & Brow by Kateryna in Nannestad before relocating to Jessheim.
A Thriving Business and Uncertain Future
The salon had a full booking schedule extending to August, demonstrating Karlsen’s success and popularity. Now, she is contemplating the future of her business and exploring options to continue operating, potentially by finding a colleague with the necessary skills. “If I’ve done it once, I’ll do it again. I probably won’t be able to work fully on this again, but I might be able to do it for a few days. We’ll witness what the solution is. I just fell a little and will get back up. That’s how life is,” she said.
Community Support
Karlsen has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from her customers, with many expressing hope for her recovery and even offering to pay extra for appointments. “It is particularly sad that it happened so suddenly and that I may have to say goodbye to many great customers. At the same time, it is very warm to receive so many nice messages,” she shared.