

From Massage Therapist to Poker Star: Dana Perianu's Unlikely Journey
Dana Perianu started her career as a massage therapist in a shopping mall after completing her studies. Her introduction to poker came through her Italian friends who invited her to be their lucky charm during online sessions. This led to her first major poker event, the EPT in Monaco, where she met Suhi Hallberg, the owner of Thee Best Hands.
Dana Perianu's first poker series was the WPT in Barcelona 2009, where she earned significantly more than her previous job. She became a full-time employee of Thee Best Hands after impressing Suhi Hallberg with her work ethic. Her dedication and hard work paid off, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after masseuses in the poker world.
Dana Perianu received her largest tip, €1,000, from Phil Ivey for a three-hour massage. Her photo with Phil Ivey became a popular topic on the 2+2 poker forum, further cementing her status as a notable figure in the poker community. Despite her success, Dana Perianu has developed a strong client base and rarely works with new players, focusing on her loyal clientele. She has also become interested in poker and started playing herself, but her results were not consistent.
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Argus RivenI've spent years at the tables — cash and tournaments — and just as long shaping poker copy behind the scenes: room reviews, bonus fine print, tournament notes. At PokerInsider I write the way I wish more sites would: clear structure, honest trade-offs, no hype. Whether you're new or already grinding, I care about what the offer actually costs you — rake, variance, and the fine print — and I treat responsible play as part of the job, not a footnote.
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