After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Nia sought new ways to help her cope with her experience. To that end, she attended a therapeutic writing workshop where she discovered a hidden talent for writing, and in the process, opened a new chapter in her life.
After undergoing genetic testing, participating in a clinical trial and choosing reconstructive surgery, Nia has learned to draw on these experiences and use her newfound voice not only to express herself, but also to inspire others in a variety of ways.
In addition to having helped facilitate a writers’ group for the Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Nia also acts as a mentor for Carle Clinic’s Plastic Surgery Center. In this role, Nia talks with patients who are considering a mastectomy to answer their questions and share with them her own experience.
Both as a writer and a mentor, Nia thrives on interacting with patients and offering them words of encouragement. Currently, Nia is working on a book about her experience with breast cancer in hopes of reaching out to an even larger audience of patients and survivors.