Shelly Mattes: Stronger Together

A Life Rooted in Love and Legacy
At 55, Shelly Mattes embodies grace, resilience, and unwavering purpose. Married for over 32 years to her husband John, Shelly has raised two exceptional daughters—Kennedy, a Princeton graduate heading to Harvard Law, and Margo, a current sophomore at Princeton. Her family reflects the deep values she holds: education, character, and the power of strong parenting.

From Pharmaceuticals to Purpose
After earning her Bachelor of Science from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Shelly began her career in pharmaceutical sales. Her entrepreneurial spirit later led her to establish Models by Trade, a modeling agency, before entering the medical field. Today, she owns successful Outpatient Radiology Imaging Centers, providing critical services like MRIs, CT scans, and PET scans—especially vital for cancer patients.

Fighting for the Voiceless
Shelly’s mission extends beyond business. As a CASA Court-Appointed Special Advocate, she tirelessly defends the rights of children in foster care. Her work is driven by empathy, and she uses her platform to uplift those who have no one else advocating for them.

Turning Pain into Power
A life-altering cancer diagnosis became the turning point in Shelly’s story. Rather than letting it define her, she rose above it—emerging as a fitness bikini champion and international fitness cover model. Her journey is proof that adversity can become a springboard for personal transformation.

Fitness, Friendship, and Collaboration
For the past 10 years, Shelly has trained with her best friend Linda Mitchell, owner of Sisterhood of Sweat in Mason, Ohio. Their shared belief that “you go further together” has fueled their health journey. Through discipline, strength, and camaraderie, they’ve inspired countless women to chase their goals, no matter the odds.

Sports and Service
In her free time, Shelly gives back to her community by coaching basketball, cross country, and track. Her passion for sports and mentorship shows her belief that confidence and character are built through action and example.

A Mission That Transcends Generations
Shelly’s true calling is to raise happy, healthy, and empathetic daughters—and to serve as a beacon for others seeking hope. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: never give up on your dreams, no matter your age, and always pay it forward. She believes deeply in uplifting others to create a ripple effect that empowers generations to come.

Stronger, Together
Shelly Mattes stands as living proof that the combination of resilience, compassion, and community can lead to a life of impact. Her story isn’t just one of survival—it’s one of elevation. In everything she does, she reminds us: we are stronger, together.