Content warning: Cain’s story concerns child loss, death, cancer and alcoholism. If you or someone you know are looking for support, contact Student Counseling Services at 515-294-5056.

MaryJune Cain is a graduate student studying accounting. In this episode of Humans of Iowa State, Cain reflects on her time spent with her mother and cherishes her time spent with her husband and children. 

“I was born and raised here in Ames,” Cain said. “My family has been here since after World War II.”

Cain began her story by explaining her connection to PCI Academy and Finesse Spa Salon, both located in Ames. Cain’s grandmother opened these institutes at a time in which working women were not viewed in very high regard. 

“My grandfather worked at the DOT [and] my grandmother started Finesse Spa Salons,” Cain said. “She was a very entrepreneurial woman back when it was not cool and almost unbelievable.”

Cain dove into her experiences at PCI Academy and what drove her to join Iowa State.

“I remember one time my mom… was talking to a classmate and the classmate told her… ‘You can’t own a business and have children,’” Cain said. “My grandfather was very much a supportive spouse. He was not one of the era where the wife needed to stay home.”

To end her story, Cain expressed her thanks for her husband and children. She discussed child loss as well as her experience caring for her family through her mother’s battle with cancer.  

“They started Finesse [and] PCI Academy,” Cain said. “[PCI] is what brought my mom back to Ames after she had gone through Iowa State.”

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To view Cain’s story, click the watch link at the top of the article.