Shears & Stories: Breast Cancer, Recovery & Refusing to Stop | Jessica Adorno

In episode #23 of Shears & Stories, we sit down with Jessica Adorno of Pupparazzi Pets for an honest conversation about building a career, surviving a major health battle, and learning that strength doesn’t always mean handling everything alone. Jessica has spent more than two decades in the grooming industry, developing a reputation for her precise scissor work, mobile grooming expertise, larger-than-life personality, and passion for educating everyday groomers. Her journey took her from training at the New York Academy of Dog Grooming to launching Pupparazzi Pets, becoming an international educator, working with major grooming brands, and appearing on Haute Dog. But this conversation goes beyond the résumé. Jessica opens up about her experience with breast cancer, multiple surgeries, physical pain, recovery, and the challenge of continuing to balance work, travel, family, and the identity she had built within the grooming community. Jessica and Elli discuss: Building a successful mobile grooming career Becoming known for precise and confident scissor work Using education to elevate everyday pet groomers Navigating breast cancer and multiple surgeries Continuing to work while facing a major medical journey The difference between surviving and truly beginning to thrive Accepting support when you are accustomed to helping everyone else Using humor and personality to move through difficult seasons The support Jessica received from the grooming community How illness can change your perspective on success, time, and life The conversation also explores what happens when someone known for being confident, energetic, and dependable suddenly has to slow down and allow other people to step in. Jessica’s story is a reminder that the people who appear strongest may still be fighting battles others cannot see—and that receiving help does not make someone any less powerful. This is one of those shear stories that extends far beyond grooming. It’s about identity, community, resilience, and finding a way to keep living fully when life changes without warning. Whether you’re a groomer, educator, business owner, cancer survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating your own difficult season, Jessica’s story offers honesty, humor, and hope. Be sure to subscribe for more real shear stories from professional groomers, competitors, educators, business owners, and industry leaders.