Who I am and what motivates me

  I have learned a lot about my body.  Diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in 2007 was what would have been the beginning of my end, but because so much time and effort has been spent on breast cancer cures and awareness, I am here today.  My cancer has the Her2Neu receptor so I continue to receive Herceptin every three weeks.  I am told I will do this the rest of my life. Can't complain though, since I am here to take the chemo.  The side effects for this drug aren't too bad as long as I eat right and take care of myself.  Key is to drink plenty of water the day of and after each treatment.
  After my main six months of chemo, (the hard shit), radiation, and surgeries, I wanted to share with others what I went through hoping to give you insight.  I had no idea what to expect at my diagnosis and did not know where to turn to to find the answers. There are some scary things out there that will kill any bit of hope you have, but there is also inspiring information but you have to search to find it.  I want to help others here.

  One thing I did for myself is to start school at the age of 48.  I signed up one day out of the blue after watching the person who runs our department belittle people, ruling with fear and power. I know I can do a better job then them so why not get my Bachelor of Sciences degree in Health Care Administration? So I did.  I graduated October 8, 2013 Suma Cum Lade. I took as many classes about wellness and health that I could along with my required classes, not sure exactly where this will take me.  All I know is I am intrigued by wellness and continue to absorb everything I can about it.

  This past year lead me to Positive Changes. A hypnosis program I signed up to help with weight loss.  What I have discovered is that this program not only helps with the typical eating habits, but it has increased my ability to relax, decompress and find an inner peace.  It has taught me how to love who I am and to appreciate what I have done with my life. I can't remember when I have been more content with the person I am than right now.  I am not done, heck no! I cant wait to see where my journey takes me.

Blogging for real

I have been asked to start a blog by my friends.  My life this past year has taken some amazing direction and I want to share what I have learned.  I hope that you will find my blogs informative and inspirational. I want your feedback so that I can make this blog as useful as possible for everyone. Thanks for reading. Be well.

Blogging for my new class

Here I am two years later and still in school.  I love learning, what can I say.  This class has been interesting so far. It is Creating Wellness: Psychological and Spiritual Aspects of Healing.  I am excited to learn about holistic, alternative, Integral healing. 
 I haven't blogged since my last class required as you can see, because I am still working full time and attending school full time.  This term I accepted an invitation to be a mentor for new students through Kaplan University and I will either volunteer to be an officer of my chapter of NSCS or at the Union Gospel Mission on weekends preparing and serving meals to the homeless.  
I look forward to using this blog again and getting to know my classmates and professor.

Lorie Nick