How does laurie practice what she teaches other survivors?
A Passion for Survivorship: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
After nearly 2 decades working in cancer care and also experiencing the struggles of my own survivorship, I have written two books, one a text to explain important nutrition information for breast cancer survivors, and a journal for the survivor to examine, explore, and practice new eating approaches. After my diagnosis, it became clear to me that my unique point of view as a cancer dietitian and a survivor I had something to offer and I could not keep my knowledge to myself. My goal is simple: help as many of my fellow survivors as I can through my books and breast cancer centered organizations! American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer held in October is an annual favorite. The Pink Fund, an organization devoted to helping with the financial struggles of women with breast cancer, is another favorite. In the clinics where I worked, I saw first-hand the difficulties some women have paying for treatment and their household expenses.
The outdoors---walking, riding horses, and exploring natural landscapes is my physical fitness focus and recharge. After my diagnosis, I had to adjust my expectations of what types of physical activity were most comfortable for me. For example, I don't feel safe bareback on a horse anymore! The saddle is my friend.
Traveling means trying my hand at creating ethnic cuisine.
Sampling foods from faraway places --spices, different preparation techniques from Africa, Italy, Greece, Israel--that is a big part of why I enjoy traveling, even if just downtown to a local Mexican cafe. But from a nutriton standpoint, the wide variety of plant nutrients from spices, fruits, and vegetables along with plant-based proteins (beans, lentils), and flavors is even more important to me.
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