Sylvia A. Bower, RN, has an extensive history in the nursing profession. She is a graduate of Grant Hospital School of Nursing and attended Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio and St. Joseph’s College in Maine, and attended Liberty University. She has been registered to practice nursing in Ohio, Texas, Missouri, Arizona, Tennessee, and Florida, and she has practiced in public health, emergency, orthopedics, long-term care, occupational health, ambulatory care, nurse recruitment, discharge planning, hospice care, and continuing education.

Ms. Bower has had a lifelong interest in long-term care, working and volunteering in a variety of settings. She has written program development for case management and was certified in nursing administration and case management. Since her retirement, she has worked in hospice as a volunteer at an inpatient unit. In 1996, Ms. Bower was diagnosed with celiac disease and began gathering research on the history and pathophysiology of the disease. She subsequently authored two books on the topic. She has also lectured extensively on celiac disease to local and national groups. She serves as a board member of the nonprofit Gluten-Free Gang of Central Ohio, which develops, provides, and promotes education, community awareness, and research for those diagnosed with celiac disease and/or gluten intolerance. Her passion is patient education for individuals and families affected by celiac disease.

Her greatest accomplishments are family of three adult children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.