After receiving her bachelor’s degree, Diane Bowley began working as an administrator in both independent and assisted living senior communities. At age 34, she was working on her master’s degree, had just had a baby and had returned to work from maternity leave and was then diagnosed with breast cancer. After a year of treatment, she went back into the high stress administrative field. A year and a half later, the cancer came back into her liver and they gave her only 11 months to live. She quit her job and, after much treatment and two years had passed, she decided to take more classes in something fun that she enjoyed, which happened to be floral design. After doing some research, she realized that florists worked extremely long hours and she was not healthy enough to do that. Instead, she began researching home based businesses and found an ad about freeze-drying the rest is history. She began Memories Bi-Design in her home and after three years, moved it to its current location off the NW corner of Hwy 370 and 72nd Street. Although Diane still has cancer, it’s been 10 years since her second diagnosis and she recently celebrated her 500th treatment.
Memories Bi-Design is the Midwest’s largest freeze-dry preservation specialist. They have preserved items such as flowers, non-edible bulk veggies and fruits for decor, herbs, record holding mushrooms, small animals, antlers, vintage dresses, WWI & II items and books to name a few.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’m married with two children, one son-in-law and Tobie, my dog, who’s also the “floor manager”.
What do you see as the biggest turning point in your life?
Cancer. It changed my life for the positive. If I had to do it all again, I would do it the same way. That saying “you would suddenly know how to live if they told you you were dying” is true. Just ask a survivor.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Stay at home, or if I get the opportunity, I love to go fishing.
What are you the most proud of?
That I’m a cancer survivor. Looking at me you would never guess…and that’s the way I like it. I’m kind of a “if they don’t ask, then don’t bring it up” type of gal.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Jimisim #50 “Livin’ the Dream” If you dream, then do it!
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
Pay off all my debts. With a business it’s a revolving door and debt never seems to go away and I hate that.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
To heal others.
What is your greatest talent you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
Public speaking.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
I’m currently reading the series by Joann Fluke.
What is your favorite movie?
Medicine Man with Sean Connery. He finds the cure for cancer.
What is your favorite TV Show?
My family likes Big Bang Theory. It’s nice to always count on gathering in one room for a change to watch it.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Kona Grill. Love their sushi and Macadamia Nut Crusted Chicken Salad!
If you could have dinner with one person from the past or present, who would it be?
My Polish Grandmother on my father’s side.
If our readers would like to get in touch with you, how should they do so?
It’s probably best to e-mail Diane Bowley at memoriesbidesign@qwestoffice.net or call at (402) 341-3363.
Look forward to speaking with you.
For more information about Memories Bi-Design, please call (402) 341-3363 or visit us online at www.memoriesbidesign.com.