Melissa Darnell had been working as a manager at a major advertising firm in New York City for over 12 years when she was introduced to Rodan + Fields. "I loved my job and wasn't really in need of something more," says Melissa. She jumped at the opportunity to become an Independent Consultant even though she was a busy mom of a toddler with another child on the way. "I joined to avoid the regret of not joining," she says, looking back on that simple "yes" in June 2011 that changed her entire life. "This business has allowed me to make the choices that I need to make to be a better mother, wife and version of myself," says Melissa, who works approximately 40 hours each week around her existing priorities. She notes, "Being home with my children and not missing a beat is a dream come true." After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, Melissa believes deeply that "every moment counts." She also fiercely advocates for food allergy awareness in her children's school, to "raise her voice on behalf of inclusion." Melissa shares that inspiring and guiding her team has been an eye-opening experience for her, allowing her to forge relationships that have changed her business for the better. Her long-term goal? To give "everyone the opportunity to experience our products and our unprecedented business model." Patience and consistency have been the keys to her success.