We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Watson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.

Melissa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I started NIKAO because I wanted to turn my personal journey of surviving stage four terminal cancer into something purposeful during my recovery. I realize how important it is to feel confident, comfortable and empowered especially in healthcare settings. I created the NIKAO Scrubs to provide healthcare workers with a product that not only meets the demands of their profession, but also makes them feel strong stylish and seen. For me, this business is more than just clothing—— It’s about resilience faith in the belief that challenges can be transformed into opportunities..

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Melissa Nicole is the founder and CEO of Nikao Scrub Solutions, a custom healthcare scrub brand inspired by my powerful journey of survival and faith. After being diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer in 2020 and later becoming cancer-free—a miracle my doctors called extraordinary— I (Melissa) turned my pain into purpose.

NIKAO, is to overcome, to prevail, and be victorious, reflects both my personal victory and my mission to empower healthcare professionals through quality, stylish, and meaningful apparel. Today, I use her story to inspire others to believe that no matter the battle, hope wins.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

There was a point during my cancer treatment when I could not breath. I had gone through 8weeks of radiation and several rounds of chemotherapy, and I remember telling my doctor, ‘I can’t do this anymore.’ It’s messing with my breathing.

What I didn’t realize then was that choosing to stop wasn’t giving up—it was an act of faith. I trusted that God had already started healing me. When my doctor later showed me my scan results, she was in tears. Across the report, she had written one word: ‘A miracle.’

That day changed everything for me. I learned that resilience isn’t just about pushing through—it’s about believing in something greater, even when everything around you says it’s over.”

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I first started my business, it was called Scrub Solutions. I was figuring things out as I went—making money, spending money, and honestly, I didn’t have the structure or vision I needed. Then, when I was diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer, everything changed. That season forced me to slow down, reflect, and rebuild—not just my life, but my purpose.

After beating cancer, I came back with a new mindset and a new mission. That’s when NIKAO Scrub Solutions was born. Nikao means to overcome, to prevail, to be victorious—and that’s exactly what I did. That pivot wasn’t just a business decision; it was a rebirth. It taught me that sometimes God will press pause not to stop you, but to realign you with your true purpose.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nikaoscrubsolution.com
• Instagram: NIKAO Scrub Solutions
• Facebook: NIKAO Scrub Solutions
• Twitter: NIKAO Scrub Solutions
• Other: TikTok-NIKAO Scrub Solutions

Image Credits

Candice Easley