Her Story
About Melissa
Melissa Bertram is the Founder and Owner of Happy Feet Podiatry LLC, a mobile podiatry practice based in Kahoka, Missouri. With a background in respiratory care, Melissa developed valuable experience in mobile podiatry through her work as a back-office team member and field assistant for approximately four years while living in Indiana. Drawing on this experience, she established Happy Feet Podiatry in January 2026 with a mission to expand access to convenient, quality foot care for seniors and individuals in rural communities. Through Happy Feet Podiatry, Melissa oversees a mobile care model that brings podiatric services directly to patients in their homes, nursing homes, and senior living facilities. The practice works with podiatrists and nurse practitioners to provide essential foot care, including toenail trimming, treatment of corns and calluses, and diabetic foot care. Recognizing that many older adults, particularly those living in rural farming communities, prefer to remain in their family homes, Melissa is passionate about making healthcare more accessible while helping families avoid the challenges of lengthy trips to medical appointments. She is also involved in her local Chamber of Commerce, supporting connections within the Kahoka business community, and a board member of the United Way Great River Region. Melissa earned an Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Care Therapy from Southeastern Community College, where she maintained a 3.424 GPA and served as Vice President of Communications for the Phi Theta Kappa Beta Eta Alpha Chapter. During her time there, she contributed to projects supporting accessibility in local parks and helping international students feel more welcomed on campus. She credits her success to God, the support of her husband and family, and the inspiration of her late mother-in-law, in whose memory she established her business. Guided by her strong Christian faith, Melissa has dedicated Happy Feet Podiatry to God and considers faith and family the foundation of both her personal and professional life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to God. My mother-in-law remains my inspiration and driving force, as I pursue this journey in her memory. I am also deeply grateful for my husband and family, whose unwavering love and support continue to motivate me.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to stay committed, never get discouraged, and find a mentor who will guide, encourage, and support you along the way. Most importantly, pursue what you genuinely love and are passionate about rather than choosing a career solely for the financial rewards.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is taking the step to open and establish your own business. My advice is to embrace opportunities as they come, remain open to new possibilities, and always pursue what you truly love.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith and family are the most important values in my life. We are a strong Christian family, and I believe in keeping God at the center of everything I do. Happy Feet is completely dedicated to God, and my faith guides both my personal life and my work.
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