About Erika Gruszewski

Erika Gruszewski

Erika is a Syracuse native who lives in Rochester with her husband and daughter. She is a research insights consultant with Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

Posts by Erika Gruszewski

18 Great Non-Fiction Books for 2018

If you’re looking for an inspirational, uplifting or funny book for the New Year, here are a few of my favorite non-fiction books. When you need a real-life hero “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand I was riveted by the resilience of Louis Zamperini who started out life as a delinquent. Zamperini took his talent of running…Read More »

The excuse you might need to finally take days off

“Take two vacation days…and call me in the morning.” Sounds kind of strange, but a “vacation” might be a real “prescription” for better health and work life. Work is the number one cause of stress for American workers, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association. So, using up your vacation days would be…Read More »

Meal Delivery Services: Our Review of Home Chef & Kitchen Verde

Is meal delivery in a box for you? Maybe. These semi-prepared meals definitely get you out of a “cooking rut” and encourage you to change up your dinner offerings. Here’s my two cents on some of the more popular brands, plus feedback from my colleagues who’ve also used them and other services. (This review is…Read More »

Get a Flu Shot for Your Grandkid’s Sake!

When I was about to become a grandma for the first time, I did many of the typical things prospective grandparents do.  I bought baby furniture so my new little one would be comfortable in our home, and practiced referring to myself as “Grandma” (I had to get used to my new title). I even…Read More »

If You Struggle With New Year’s Resolutions …Try This Instead!

I pride myself on being an eternal optimist. I believe I can turn any situation sunny if I smile enough and I can accomplish anything if I work hard. However, New Year’s resolutions always stump me. We’re so ambitious and positive on Jan. 1. We’re inspired to hit the gym and get off the couch.…Read More »

Cervical Cancer survivor Christine Baze wants everyone to get this vaccination. Here’s why.

Before you decide whether or not to have your pre-teen vaccinated against HPV (human papillomavirus), you may want to read about Christine Baze’s battle with cervical cancer. Don’t have kids that age? You may still want to read Christine’s story. The National Cancer Institute says HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men…Read More »

Battling Lead Poisoning in Herkimer and Oneida Counties

According to area health departments, an alarming percentage of children in Herkimer and Oneida counties are not screened for lead exposure. Screening, however, is critical since the majority of homes in the area were built prior to 1978. That’s when lead paint was still commonly used. If children are exposed to lead, they’re at risk…Read More »

6 Things to Do for Yourself this Holiday Season

Staying healthy (and sane) throughout the holiday season is more than just tackling a holiday weight-loss challenge or cutting back on the fruit cake. It’s about adopting an active, lifelong process of balancing and integrating all aspects of your life for optimal health. There are actually six elements of wellness that reflects the whole person;…Read More »

Meal Delivery Services: Our Review of Martha & Marley Spoon™

Is meal delivery in a box for you? Maybe. These semi-prepared meals definitely get you out of a “cooking rut” and encourage you to change up your dinner offerings. Here’s my two cents on some of the more popular brands, plus feedback from my colleagues who’ve also used them and other services. (This review is…Read More »

Meal Delivery Services: Our Review of Sun Basket

Is meal delivery in a box for you? Maybe. These semi-prepared meals definitely get you out of a “cooking rut” and encourage you to change up your dinner offerings. Here’s my two cents on some of the more popular brands, plus feedback from my colleagues who’ve also used them and other services. (This review is…Read More »