Cheri Warcholak Lohrey
A type A planner, a fitness enthusiast and career woman, Cheri, a suburban wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend was living her life to the fullest, when suddenly everything changed. Receiving a tumultuous diagnosis, her life plan was upended. After serving over 25 years as an educator, Cheri’s determination to “Never Give Up” continues as she navigates the unexpected challenges of multiple sclerosis progression illuminating the power of resilience.
Cheri Warcholak ( pronounced War- shaw-lick) Lohrey (pronounced like the season salt - Lawry) is the international bestselling author of Powered by the Pivot; Secrets Revealed in my journey Manifesting Peace, Love & Gratitude; Cleo the Caterpillar CAN Pivot and “I AM Cleo.”
After pouring her heart and soul into her memoir, Cheri delightfully discovers the joy of picture books. Her second and third books highlight her captivating storytelling in rhythm and rhyme. Her mission, both in life and through her writing is raw, real and relatable; featuring her personal strategy to Pause, Breathe, and Pivot.
Invited on her journey, readers will be inspired to embrace change, feel supported through real life moments of decision-making and ease the heaviness of illness. Her messages will build self confidence, encourage mindfulness and growth as well as reveal secrets that are often unseen. “I AM Cleo” debuts her visual interpretations, depicting an intimate picture of mental, emotional and physical challenges. Her illustrations convey her very personal, creative and symbolic journey through life’s pivots.
• Kent State University - MEd
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to knowing who I am and embracing change. For 25 years, I was an educator, dedicated to guiding students and serving others through learning. In 2020, a multiple sclerosis diagnosis forced me to step away from teaching, prompting a period of uncertainty and self-discovery.
That journey led me to writing. In 2023, I published my memoir, exploring illness, identity, and resilience, followed by an Audible version in 2024. Writing and drawing became deeply healing, revealing how creativity and neurological change can intersect in unexpected ways. Today, I continue to write, create, and advocate, sharing my story through podcasts, a writer’s group, and public appearances.
My upcoming book, I Am Cleo (Feb 2026), is my most vulnerable work yet. Through storytelling and illustrations, it helps families—and especially children—understand illness with honesty and compassion. The educator in me never left; she simply found a new way to teach.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to never give up, even if the path doesn’t look like what you imagined. Just because things don’t go according to plan doesn’t mean you don’t have purpose. When my activities became limited, I had to rediscover who I was—someone with a master’s degree suddenly navigating unfamiliar territory. I learned to lean into that discomfort, find my voice, and share it. I’ve been fortunate that people are willing to listen, and I want others to know: don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Advocacy is central to my purpose. I am passionate about amplifying the voices of individuals living with disabilities and chronic illness, and about showing that a career pivot does not diminish your value. I’ve experienced the disorientation of stepping away from professional organizations and questioning my relevance, even with a master’s degree and decades of experience. What I’ve learned is that contribution doesn’t disappear—it evolves.
Locations
poweredbythepivot.com
Las Vegas, NV 89084