About Erika Gruszewski
Posts by Erika Gruszewski
Introvert, Extrovert… or Both. How Social Distancing Has Impacted Us All
Social Distancing is an Introvert’s Dream Come True Right? Not exactly. Patrick McDaniels, a self-described introvert and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield program analyst, dug into this question. He interviewed three individuals to explore how introverts and extroverts are experiencing this extended period of physical distancing. “I am most comfortable going for a walk with my dogs…Read More »
Get Outdoors: Nature for Stress Management
Whether it’s hiking Bald Mountain, kayaking on First Lake, or just relaxing by the fire at their Old Forge camp, Eve Van de Wal, who resides in Oneida County, has found that being outdoors in nature does her mind and body good. “Just a walk, a hike, or snowshoeing at a leisurely pace is amazing…Read More »
Advance care planning is more important than ever
The COVID-19 pandemic is shedding new light on the often-abstract concept of advance care planning. Advance care planning is where individuals document what matters most to them, and then select the right health care agent to make decisions on their behalf if they are unable to speak for themselves. During this pandemic, many people have…Read More »
Recognizing Signs of Stroke Can Speed Treatment and Limit Damage
Only one-third of adults in New York state say they can recognize the signs of a stroke, according to a review of self-reported data by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. And that’s bad news since every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, according to the American Heart Association. Knowing when someone is exhibiting…Read More »
Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone; it does not discriminate
News outlets across the country have reported a rise in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic –when families are essentially confined to homes, where a victim can’t easily escape an abuser. Abusers have more tactics at their disposal when victims can’t easily get away from home. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1…Read More »
My Happy Place: Organization
Each time I have felt anxious, stressed or just overwhelmed, the answer is a messy drawer or closet away. Organization is my happy place. I have always found solace in making my home less cluttered and more controlled. During the past few months of social distancing and working from home while educating my seven kids –…Read More »
Hidden Gems: Audubon Community Nature Center
Spending time in nature can enrich us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. That’s the motto of the Audubon Community Nature Center (ACNC). Looking for a new place to take in the great outdoors? Consider visiting this hidden gem in western New York’s Southern Tier. The Highlights ACNC is in Jamestown, N.Y., about 60 miles south of…Read More »
Foster Care: A Rewarding Journey
Growing up as one of six kids, Sandra Smith of Chenango County always knew she wanted to be a mother. “I’d always pictured that coming to me in the same way it did for everyone else. I believed I would fall in love, get married, get pregnant, and be able to care for my child…Read More »
Taking Charge of Your Diabetes – Now More Important Than Ever
Bob Russell was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 25. Today, he is the Upstate New York Area Executive Director of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). He’s aware of the importance of managing the risks associated with diabetes. “Diabetes can affect anyone at any time,” Russell said. “Being aware, paying attention to your body…Read More »
How A Call to the 24/7 Nurse Line May Have Saved a Life
In honor of National Nurses Week, we’re sharing stories that celebrate the compassion, empathy and kindness demonstrated by nurses and other medical professionals throughout our upstate New York communities. The Call That May Have Saved A Life When Grace (pseudonym) felt uneasy and scared about her husband’s worsening health condition, she turned to a nurse…Read More »