I am a retired nursing professor, who just after retirement was diagnosed with systemic lupus. As a 60 something, I changed my life with a chronic disease diagnosis by spending more time outside close to trees, plants, and shrubs.

In 2019 I published a book and a workbook called “Take Back Your Outside Mindset: Live Longer, Prevent Dementia, and Control Your Chronic Illness.”

In 2020 I started a podcast called Your Outside Mindset for two reasons. First, because I help people to recognize that spending time outside is not ust a nice thing to, but it could save your life. And two, because I want to share science backed tips to live longer, prevent dementia, and control chronic illness by going outside.

I  am happy to talk with your group on line or in person.  Some of my recent speaking engagements include:

• book clubs, community arts, and library events.

• national conferences for chronic illness and disability.

• Urban Poling – assistive devices to help get all outside.

For more information on any of the above, including current availability and rates, please email me: Verla Fortier at this email address vhfortier@icloud. Thank you.