Meet Team Member Loree Nicholas

Hi, my name is Loree Nicholas and I am one of the team members for the 2014 Zimbabwe Ubuntu mission trip. I currently reside in Carol Stream, IL.   I am married with two daughters ages 21 and 22.  I have been in private practice since 1988 as a general dentist in Glen Ellyn, IL. Prior to dental school I received my certification as an expanded function dental assistant in 1978  from University of IL and have been in this field ever since. In the earlier years after my graduation from Northwestern University Dental School I frequently went to the local grammar schools to talk about oral health and proper technique to clean your mouth and the impact that your mouth has on your overall health.  I did that for approximately 10 years and it was a true joy working with the children.  My own children after that took up much of my spare time.

My career has given me so many wonderful opportunities to expand myself in ways that I never dreamed of.  Through extensive continuing education I have been able to travel to many parts of the world and experience the cultures and love that so many people have to offer.  It has and will continue to be a humbling experience to see how the other side of the world lives.

I have been on two previous medical mission trips through the United Methodist Volunteers in Mission working both times in Panama with our devoted leader Jane Dunn. Both trips were amazing!  When the invitation to join in on this group effort to Zimbabwe was offered I did not hesitate to say a hearty "yes please"!  I am so looking forward to meeting our team... working together to help in whatever ways that we can to interact, help, share, laugh, cry and empower the women and children that we will be working together with.  We have all been given many responsibilities to share and one of mine is as the team medic ....I will surely strive to keep my gal pals healthy.

 

Below are a few photos of me working in Panama, taking a hike at The Great Wall with The University of the Pacific Continuing Education Group, and a photo amidst the lovely wooded orchards of Door County Wisconsin.  Thanks everyone and wish us well.