Empower One. I mpact Many. w w w.younightevent s.com
You Night New Orleans Class of 2017 July 27th Contemporary Arts Center
Center for Women' s Health & Southern Institute for Women' s Sexual Health Congratulations to all You Night models! We are proud Presenting Sponsors of You Night 2017 New Orleans and St Tammany
PICTURED FROM THE CENTER FOR WOMEN'S HEALTH: Kel l y N. Brewst er, WHNP, Kat herine L. Wil l iams, M.D., Jamie Hymel , M.D. , Rachael Cresap, M.D.
PICTURED FROM THE SOUTHERN INSTITUTE FOR WOMEN'S SEXUAL HEALTH: Kel l y N. Brewst er, WHNP, Jay Saux, M.D., Kat herine L. Wil l iams, M.D., Michel l e Sierra, PT
Specializing in Robotic Surgery, Normal and High Risk Pregnancy, M enopause and Gynecological Care w w w .cw hnorthshore.com
Specializing in Vulva Vaginal Disorders, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Dysfunction and Lichen Scierosus w w w .SIWSH.com
104 Innw ood Drive
Covington, LA 70433
Phone: 985-249-7022
Fax: 985-249-7048
L iving Together. Growing Together. This is how Center for Women' s Health is proudly focusing on "You Night" in 2017. The providers and staff, at Center for Women' s Health are truly privileged to have an opportunity to collaborate w ith such an incredible team of sponsors on such an amazing event. Since our first experience w ith "You Night" in 2013 w e realized that this event truly embraces the victory and feelings that cancer patients experience after they have completed all the treatments and get a diagnosis of remission or ?cancer free.? Since our field of practice focuses on Women' s Health and overall w ellness it felt natural to become a part of something that embodies the positive experiences and success a w oman feels after dealing w ith the struggles of this disease head on. At Center for Women' s Health w e strive to provide an environment that can meet any w oman' s needs no matter w here they are in life' s journey. Customer centered care, focusing on the patients needs, w ellness and their health care concerns in a comfortable, spa-like environment is part of the mission and goals for not just the providers but the entire staff at CWH. The providers at the Center for Women' s Health specialize in normal as w ell as high risk pregnancies, extensive robotic gynecological surgeries, as w ell as the development of programs for conditions that contribute to health issues that are very specific to w omen of all ages such as interstitial cystitis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and female sexual dysfunction. But the Center for Women' s health is so much more. From fertility to pregnancy, from motherhood to menopause, the providers and staff strive to ensure that they assist their patients through all of life' s milestones and challenges. They focus strongly on keeping the environment calm and w arm-natured w hile providing patients w ith the best results. This is achieved by having all of the staff at Center For Women' s Health participate in annual staff retreats to develop new w ays of enhancing the patient' s experience w ithin our facility, w hile still
maintaining that sense of w armth and camaraderie that comes from developing a strong provider/patient relationship through the years. While Center for Women' s Health has committed to provide healthcare focused on excellence, a community need w as identified w ith so many w omen that may suffer w ith vaginal-vulvar disorders, pain w ith intercourse, and even those w ho may be experiencing vaginal dryness and atrophy as a result of untreated menopause in breast cancer survivors. Through the identification of these needs, Southern Institute for Women' s Sexual Health (SIWSH) w as developed by Dr Williams. The providers have attended conferences specific to female sexual health and dysfunction, and Dr. Williams has obtained her fellow ship in this field, allow ing them to further their education on such an under-addressed need that affects so many w omen in all stages of life. The mission of SIWSH is to be able to access and manage a female' s sexual issues both physically and emotionally, in a system that w ould allow the provider to have ample time to do extensive evaluation of the patients needs. This is done through a comprehensive questionnaire that is review ed by Dr. Williams, and a thorough physical exam w hich allow s the provider the time to create an extensive and unique treatment plan as a result. This program promises to truly accommodate those w omen w ho feel like the options for dealing w ith this sensitive healthcare concern have for the most part been overlooked and simply not addressed. It is our hope as it w as in 2013 and every year since , that the models that take the stage tonight ignite in you the same enthusiasm and passion to become a part of something so incredible as the models did for us. Congratulations again to our 2017 models. They truly embody the spirit of victory and perseverance that w e all hope to achieve.
LEG YOU N A SINCY PAIGHT CE RT 20 N E 13 R
Y ou N ight P roduction Team W ith 14 million cancer survivors in the United States today, there is a growing need to address the emotional and physical needs that women have after a cancer diagnosis. As we continue to develop our program, we learn of greater ways we can help serve the patients, their families and the medical community through this empowering program, that serves as a unique sisterhood and support group. Many individuals make this program possible, including our coaches, sponsors, salons, boutiques and countless number of volunteers. Thank you also to the friends and family members who came tonight to support these brave models as they share their personal journeys, and celebrate their strength and newfound sisterhood. The time we have spent with the models preparing in this event has been very special, and has indeed united us all. To date, 200 participants have gone through our programs, founded in 2013. 19 new sisters will be walking the runway tonight. Thanks to sponsorship and attendee ticket sales, You Night is able to gift the five month empowerment experience to our participants. You Night's mission it to help women embrace life after a cancer diagnosis. It is our hope that this program will help address the many needs of survivorship, and that the You Night experience will have lasting, positive impact in the lives of all involved. It is our belief that empowering individuals will positively spill out into the community, serving as hope and inspiration for others.
W ith love and appreciation, The Y ou N ight P roduction Team Lisa McKenzie , Founder/ Executive Producer Eloise Early, Logistics & Guest Registration Manager Dawn Gallo, Model, Salon and Boutique Liason Elaine Roark, Producer of the Producer Charo Arnold, Sponsorship Chair Stephanie Rivers, Sponsorship Holley Haag & Tiffany Swoboda Co-Chairpersons Michelle Dunnick, Public Relations Tammy Broussard, Leslie Legania & Lauren Siegel Runway Training Team Kristen Johnson, Alisha Kennedy and Julie Mason Alum Choreography Joyce Varghese, Music Video Choreography Dylan Maras, Photography and Videography (W hite Donut Productions) Tracie Morris Schaefer, Studio U Photography Candra George, My Creative Reality Photography Deidra Langridge, Outreach Coordinator Margaret and Wayne Rogers, Ministry Support Team Angela Becnel Food and Beverage Logistics Kristyn Kemp, Ruth Avila, Sandy Hicks, Ysonde Strecker Cheryl Dendinger, Rhonda Ebel, Big Sisters Rhonda Ebel, Retreat Chairperson Jackie Barre Retreat Catering Beth Farinola, ScART Committee Rhonda Beals Perez, Dressing Room and Back Stage Coordinator Hailey Aid, "You Nighted Kingdom" Logo Designer Grey Spiller, On-Site Logistics Coordinator You Night is a program made possible from funding by t he "We Lift You Up" Fund --a 501(c)3 fund managed by. t he Infint y Init iat ive
W elcome from the N ew O rleans 2 0 17 E vent C hairpersons Welcom e NOLA Class of 2017 - f r om Holley Haag, Co-Ch air per son When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer over three decades ago, she must have felt so isolated and scared with the lack of information and resources available to her. Sometimes, I wonder what she?d think about the breast cancer community that has evolved so much since her death. It is amazing to see how the world has embraced mothers, sisters, wives, friends, and relatives in their time of need. The network and ?extended family? you meet on this journey creates a sense of belonging and understanding that is crucial to your recovery. After my diagnosis, I experienced a myriad of feelings, but I always felt supported and loved. My friends, family, and the breast cancer community rallied around me and lifted me up. The hope I felt from the medical staff and my circle of friends and family was unwavering. When I was selected to participate in You Night, I was so excited about the fun, fashion, (new and old) friends, and focus on being a survivor. The event was actually a series of events in preparation for the big night. The You Night team guided us step by step through the entire process of becoming familiar with the other participants, wardrobe selection, cat walk lessons, beautification in preparation for the event, and the media coverage. I felt fully prepared!
Tiffany S woboda H olley H aag
D awn G allo
Upon reflection, I had a fantastic experience and didn?t want that night to end. The unbreakable bond I made with my fellow You Nighters is lifelong, even if time too much time passes without contact. My life is forever changed since my You Night experience, and things have come full circle now that I am a co-chair. I am so honored to co-chair this magnanimous occasion.
H olley H aag
P ictured: M embers of the N ewO rleans C lass of 2 0 17 Not Pictured: Pamela Moss, Jaime Aguda, Tracy Ulrich
Welcom e NOLA Class of 2017 - f r om Tif f an y Sw oboda, Co-Ch air per son I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer at age 39. I was In shock and saddened but was determined to begin treatment and surgeries with a smile. I decided I would not miss a step in my day to day life. After working full time, having multiple surgeries and chemotherapy, over the next year and a half, I was cancer free. 3 years later I found myself depressed, lonely, and quite mad at the world.
Welcom e NOLA Class of 2017 - f r om Daw n Gallo One of my greatest joys in life is being a team member of You Night for the past 3 years. I have worn many hats during that time period. I started off as the gifting chair, then moved to assisting with fundraising and now Model Liason / boutique Liason. My favorite part of You Night is our ladies. I enjoy each part of their journey :from the first phone calls made to welcome them to the program, to getting to know them and their walk thru cancer.. to seeing them transform right before my eyes into
You Night empowering program has allowed me
new vibrant individuals who are confident and ready
to experience an immediate bond with wonderful
to conquer the world. I enjoy giving them my gift of
ladies going through or have gone through cancer
friendship, hugs, shoulder massages, texts of
and cancer treatment. Many of us had similar
inspiration and sisterly advice. I give to them and I
stories with sad feelings bottled up. There is an
receive tenfold in return. These ladies become part
immediate catharsis taking part in this program.
of my daily life..they are why I devote my time to
There is no drug or cure that can compare. I
such an amazing and awe inspiring program. I am
welcome the NOLA Class of 2017 and I deeply
ready and excited to see what the future holds for
wish that as they continue to be engaged with the
all of us , who are a part of a dynamic team of
program, they are as happy and "healed" as I am
professionals , giving hope and new life to women in
now. All thanks to You Night!!
the US and beyond.
Tiffany S woboda
D awn G allo
Col l ect ion TWO
C ollection 1 FORMAL W EAR Fleurt Boutique 820 E Boston St, Covington
GROOVY INSPIRED HEMLINE Need address Magazine St reet
C ollection 2 CONTEMPORARY HEMLINE 3310 Magazine St New Orleans
You Night St. Tammany Class of 2016 Role Model Shannon Maisano wearing Fleurt You Night St. Tammany Class of 2016 Role Model Tiffany Swoboda wearing Fleurt
C ollection 3 GRAND FINALE Jeans by Jean Therapy 5505 Magazine St. New Orleans You Night St. Tammany Class of 2016 Role Model Rena Roberto wearing Jean Therapy
O fficial S alon Hair and Make-up for the NOLA Class of 2017 provided by H2o Salon and Spa 441 Metairie Road Metairie, LA
New Orleans Class of 2017
Jaime Aguda
Pam M oss
Pam Smith
Eve Vavrick
Roxanne Pow ell
Charlotte Falgout
Priestly Frank
Claire Scioneaux
Jennetter Dobard
Cheryl M cKey
Nicole M atherne
Shelly Ruffin
Lisa Weeks
Lori M entel
Eileen Long
Tonisha Bright
Tracy Ulrich
Phyllis Smith
PHOTOGRAPHER TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER studiou@me.com
PHOTOGRAPHER CANDRA GEORGE candrageorge@sbcglobal.net
PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEOGRAPHER DYLAN MARAS W HITE DONUT PRODUCTIONS dylan.maras@gmail.com
There is a drive inside of Tracie to grab moments. Tracie says, "There is nothing like the satisfaction when I succeed and capture something visually or emotionally moving. I feel it and my client?s feel it." Tracie helps make the posing part of the program fun, truly capturing each participants unique personalities, while also diving into the areas where ladies feel self-conscious. It is beautiful to watch our participants become butterflies, as they learn to not be hard on themselves. Candra has been shooting professionally since 2007, working with high profile clients, including a current Presidential candidate. Her passion is to help tell beautiful stories that capture the essence of the moment -stories that her clients can treasure forever. Candra has been part of the You Night team since its inception and works with the ladies to help them feel more comfortable in front of the lens. The photos she has taken have become treasured keepsakes for our models.
MEET OUR CREATIVE TEAM W HO HELPS CREATE AND CAPTURE THE EXPERIENCES PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEOGRAPHY, RUNWAY TECHNIQUES, POSTURE, SELF-ESTEEM, & TEAM BUILDING You Night Coaches Tammy Broussard, Leslie Legania and Lauren Siegel all hail from extensive careers in modeling and runway. Tammy was part of the You Night New Orleans Class of 2015, a fashion model and a managing member of Chic Nouvelle Model Management; Leslie is founder of Positive Image Modeling, Etiquette and Charm School and is a professional runway coach in New Orleans: Lauren is a marketing manager and freelance model, often seen gracing the stage of many runway shows including SAKS 5th Avenue fashion shows. This amazing team works with our participants over several weeks teaching them the many skills required to conquer their fears of getting on and owning a runway stage. Techniques range from helping to break negative barriers of self-perception to actual runway techniques used by high-fashion models. All of the skills used on the runway stage are practiced several weeks before the show, including learning how to walk and show off the beautiful garments and accessories, how to walk on and off stage with fierce poses, how to interact with the audience and with each other, spins, half turns and group choreography. Through this program, our participants take brave steps forward to learn something new about themselves, while also having fun and developing friendships that will last a lifetime. If -- after the event -- you see a You Night model walking with their head held up high and excellent posture, you'll know where those life skills came from!
W hite Donut Productions The team at W hite Donut Productions has been capturing all of the beautiful images our guests and participants have enjoyed since the founding of You Night, including the fun video shoots, complete runway shows and still imagery. Dylan's work has been featured in National Geographic Magazine, as well as countless other print and graphic mediums.
Meet our Empowerment Runway Training Coaches
TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS Little did we know we were signing up Meeting with other breast cancer "My experience with this program for something that would change our survivors was truly a blessing. Like is everlasting. Far more than I imagined. I was looking forward lives forever! March 24, 2015 was one of others, I didn't attend support to putting ALL of this Cancer stuff the most magical nights of my life along groups after my diagnosis but this behind me. Throwing out the with my wedding day and a few other experience was much better than books, information, hats, scarves, special events :) Because of this event I any support group could have t-shirts any and all remembrances now have a group of new friends I didn't been. Each lady is awe inspiring of me having breast cancer and know I needed. Friends united because and I am grateful I had an never having to talk about it we have all gone through Cancer and opportunity to meet each of them. again. This event has changed know what the other means by simply The whole experience was more how I think about my journey through the disease. It is apart of saying terms like Chemo Brain, Taxol, than I ever imagined it to be! I night sweats and Tamoxifen. And I have highly recommend participation in me, my past and will help form my future. The inspiring women I countless other new friends because of this event to any woman that is a have met are incredible and now Lisa McKenzie and Susan Bopp and their breast cancer survivor. Lori newest of friends. We all have idea to empower cancer survivors. The Choppin ST TAMMANY CLASS OF my a past, beat this disease and are list of people involved in getting this 2013 stronger, wiser, better women event to happen is long and you are all because of it. So, I now won't wonderful! I will encourage everyone I or tuck it all away and try to I feel so blessed and lucky to hide know to attend future events! What a forget it. I will embrace the fact have been a part of You that I had breast cancer, and be fabulous night! -- Kristyn Kemp, NOLA proud to speak of it and let other Night. It was totally When I was diagnosed with breast women see that we can empowering. I learned so cancer at 28, I felt very alone. Meeting overcome this disease, Hopefully much about holding my head one day breast cancer will be a these other survivors, who also fought such tough, courageous battles was high, and my shoulders back, disease of the past. I walk, head held high and yes, shoulders back empowering. They understood me and and presenting myself in the into my future. This is what the what I had been through. I no longer best way possible. I gained so wonderful event that you all put felt like a lonely, young survivor. I am many new, wonderful friends, together did for me." Debra proud to be a part of this amazing Rehage, ST TAMMANY CLASS and formed bonds with group of women. This event brought us OF 2013 women sharing a similar all together, and I will forever be grateful to everyone who made it journey. -- Melinda Breaux, possible. You have given me the beautiful gift of a sisterhood. Thank you so very much. -- Laura Graham, Th an k you t o Kay Jor dan f or let t in g u s h ave f u n in you r Sh ag-u ar ! ST TAMMANY CLASS OF 2013 Gu lf Coast Jagu ar Clu b
EVE VAVRICK
It was May 7, 2015. The last thing I wanted to do was go to my mammogram appointment. My mother was laying in a hospital bed fighting a pneumonia at 83 but she insisted I go. As a breast cancer survivor she knew the importance of yearly check-ups. Reluctantly, I went. Thank God I listened to her. The next day my doctor called and told me a lump had been found that needed further testing. The minute I heard those words I instinctively knew it would not end well. After a slew of tests I received those words every woman dreads hearing- ?You have breast cancer.?And just like that my life was turned upside down, never to be the same again. I didn?t want anyone to know. I couldn?t even say the word cancer without crying. I thought ?W hat if this is it?? ?W ho will take care of my mom, I?m an only child?? I hadn?t accomplished all I wanted to. I was terrified. My mother assured me that everything would be ok and suggested we pray. Thus began our daily ritual of saying an audio rosary on the way home from our law office every night. It took about six weeks for me to really comprehend what was happening. I was about to have a mastectomy followed by chemo. The thought of losing my breast and hair was devastating. If you were to ask anyone, who knew me pre-mastectomy, to describe me physically they would have all said ?Big boobs and black hair?. W ho would I be without them? I didn?t know. On July 15, 2015 I had my mastectomy followed by DIEP flap reconstruction. I suffered with complications which necessitated two follow up surgeries to remove necrotic tissue and a failing flap. Next came a wound vac which I had to wear for 24/ 7 for 2 months. I thought God must be testing me, so I just kept praying. I was finally able to start chemo in December of 2015. After three months and six rounds of chemo I was ready for my new boobies! On July 6, 2016 I had TDAP reconstruction. I thought it would be my last surgery but I was wrong- more complications L. I would still need one more surgery to complete my reconstruction. I always joked I wanted a boob job but this was not exactly what I had in mind. On November 9, 2016 I had my final surgery. I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that cancer changed my life for the better. It immediately put my life into perspective. I realize that every day is a gift and you can take nothing for granted. My mother passed away January 7th, 2017, eleven days before I was supposed to attend my first You Night event. I didn?t think I could bring myself to go but she had been so excited that I would be participating that I knew I had to do it, if not for me, for her. I am now blessed to be a part of an amazing sisterhood of survivors. Lisa McKenzie - thank you for creating You Night! I must give special thanks to my wonderful doctors and their staff at Touro- Drs. Jacob, Levin, Colfry, Caputto and Sadeghi. Your dedicated and compassionate care has been overwhelming. I am # SADEGHISTRONG. To my beloved family, friends and boyfriend, who prayed for me, sat at my bedside, helped my mom and showered us both with love- words cannot adequately express my deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for all of you. I am truly blessed to have you in my life. To my momma, my guardian angel- I love you so much. You lived to see me through my cancer journey. I know you were tired and ready to go but I miss you terribly. Until we meet again, I will live each day to make you proud. And lastly, to Cancer- you didn?t beat me. You don?t define me. The only thing you did was make me STRONGER! P.S. ? Hair is overrated. I love my wigs. Now no one knows what color hair I?m going to show up in next!
P am S mith PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
R oxanne P owell PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
P riestley F rank PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
C laire S cioneaux PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
ROXANNE POW ELL My journey with cancer has been a long one. This terrible disease has negatively affected my family for decades. As a child, I remember several of my female family members talking about their personal experiences with cancer. This disease was so prevalent and devastating they all referred to it as "The Cancer". My great-grandmother, grandmother, my mother and three of her sisters, indeed did die due to "The Cancer". This trend surely caused me to feel it was inevitable that my time to battle cancer would come. After a routine mammogram and all the other normal procedures that follow. I was contacted and told I needed a breast biopsy. At this point the wind was knocked out of me and I could not handle it. Two days before Thanksgiving 2014, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After all the years of exposure to "The Cancer". I just was not ready for it, I do not think you will ever be ready for it. The support of my family and friends gave me the strength to heal inside and out. My sisterhood with the ladies of You Night have become a great asset to my support system. Thanks be to God for I am strong and living life to the fullest.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
February 7, 2010, the day of the Saints? Superbowl victory, I found a tender lump in my left underarm while bathing. That lump I found was an enlarged lymph node. After several appointments, tests and a surgery to remove the largest of the 7-9 very suspicious lymph nodes, I was diagnosed with cancer, but they were not certain of the cancer type. It was originally thought to be lymphoma. My mammogram was clear. My only finding was several lymph nodes in my left underarm. After more testing, it was determined to be breast cancer, estrogen receptor and HER2 positive, stage 3C. A PET scan revealed more positive lymph nodes in my chest wall and one in the supraclavicular region. No tumor was ever found. As soon as the shock wore off, I went into fight mode. I have always been a firm believer that a positive attitude will get you what you want. I relied on God, prayers, my family and friends and my team of doctors to help me. Of course, I had about 3 pity parties for myself during the year and 3 months of treatments and surgeries, but I was determined to kick cancer?s butt! I am so happy to be 6 years out from cancer!! I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, double mastectomies, 33 rounds of radiation, and a year of weekly Herceptin treatments. I had the most amazing team of doctors. I know it was by God?s grace I was placed in each of their hands. Dr. McClure, my gynecologist, got the ball rolling with tests and a referral to Dr. Gordon, my surgeon. He and his nurse were so compassionate and had time to answer and address all of my husband and I?s questions and concerns. Dr. Gordon referred me to Dr. Burroff, my oncologist, who was equally compassionate and understanding with her time and knowledge. I received so much encouragement and the best medical treatment from each of them. They always called me immediately with tests results. My
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
PAM SMITH
husband was my rock and confidant through the whole ordeal. He stayed strong for me (at least, in front of me) and made me promise to fight. My son, Jason, MADE me promise I would live. That played a huge role in my fight. Telling him the news and hearing his plea was the hardest thing I experienced during that time. My mother was my loving care-giver during my hardest surgeries and my first rough chemo treatment. My sister and sister-in-law who went to doctor visits with me helped out tremendously. I have so many family members and friends to be thankful for. Before completing all of my treatments, we learned our youngest son and his girlfriend were expecting. This was not exactly great news since they were 19 and 17, but God knows His plan for our life. Our grandson just turned 6 and is the joy of our life. The past six years have been filled with joy and sorrow, but I have survived. I saw the birth of my grandchild. I witnessed my son, Jason, marry his bride. I am thankful everyday for another chance at life. I am also so thankful for the You Night Sisterhood. I have lost myself during the past 7 years and I look forward to seeing what the future holds with the amazing women of You Night.
CLAIRE SCIONEAUX PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
February 5, 2010 at the age of 45 was the day my ?God given challenge began?. As they say, God does not give us more than we can handle. For about 10 years prior to my cancer diagnosis, I would have diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds and occasionally aspirations every 4-6 months due to having cystic breast. I had a cluster of cysts in my right breast that my doctor was watching closely. My mammograms never showed cancer. In January 2010, my doctor did a biopsy of the cluster. Two of the five biopsies were cancerous. W hen he told me I had cancer, of course I was not happy, but my response to my husband was ?let?s do what needs to be done and get this cancer out of my body?. My doctor then sent me to do a MRI and a pet scan. Neither scans detected the cancer. A bit of a scary thought there. The cancer was embedded within this cluster. So, the journey begins. The hardest thing about this was to tell my two boys then ages 17 and 12 that their mother had cancer. After losing my Dad to cancer, telling my mother was not so easy either. I went to her with a positive attitude that everything was going to be OK and I would get through this. They along with my husband were my rock throughout this ordeal. I made the decision to have a bilateral mastectomy. I had 12 weeks of chemo followed by 30 days of radiation. In February 2011 I had total breast reconstruction. The chemo was tough, but I was determined to beat this demon. I feel my positive attitude, strength and faith played a big part in getting through the sickness, losing my hair, tiredness and many other side effects. Of course, the support of my family, friends, coworkers and amazing doctors was also a huge help. Thank you! As my life began to get back to normal, getting over the continuing side effects from chemo, my life again came crashing down in November 2012. My oldest son was diagnosed with cancer. It was no longer about me. I had to be strong for him. The ironic part is that he was again my rock as he went through his chemo. He took on his challenge with a big heart and was also determined to get through it all and get back to playing football. W hich he did in August 2013.
Cathy Mohr
No one wants to hear the words Cancer, but I feel that this disease made me a stronger person inside and out and gave me a whole different outlook on life ? live life to the fullest and don?t worry about the small stuff.
N icole M atherne PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
L isa W eeks PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
P hyllis S mith PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
E ileen L ong PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
C heryl M cK ey PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
CHARLOTTE FALGOUT My journey with Breast Cancer began when my older sister, Kappy, was diagnosed in Dec. 2010. I was her caregiver throughout her treatments, surgeries and her ultimate death on Dec. 5, 2012. I lost my best friend; my world changed that day. Little did we know that I had cancer while caring for her. My mammogram was 6 months later and it stated ?Everything?s good- see you next year?. W hen I found a lump in September 2013, only 9 months after losing Kappy, I knew the results weren?t good. A biopsy came back positive on October 2nd and I knew I needed a 2nd opinion. Also, my Pet Scan stated there was suspicion of metastasis in the liver. My husband and I cried for two solid weeks. God answered our prayers by sending me to Dr. Celeste Lagarde, she was the first Angel, He sent me. Now God gave me 2 more Angels, Dr. Bridgette Collins-Burrows and Ron Stein, N.P. . I had a CT Scan at Tulane Cancer Center. The scan revealed that cancer had not invaded my liver and that it was possible that the first Pet Scan had a ?Glitch?! Glitch?? W HAT?? Glitch!!!! God is Great! I didn?t have metastasis of the liver!! My bi-lateral mastectomy was scheduled for December 4, 2013 (almost one year to the date of losing Kappy). For a person who likes to feel she has some control, I have never felt so ?NOT? in control in my life. Surgery went well, 10 lymph nodes removed with 3 positive. I began the healing process, but my Doctors felt they left some cancer tissue. So, on January 20, 2014, I had my second surgery. Thank God! My margins were clear and the tissue removed had no cancer cells. My chemo started on Feb. 11, 2014. The first time the chemo ran through my veins, I sobbed, not because I was afraid of hair loss or sickness, but because I wanted a cure for this horrible disease and I knew I needed to continue to live for my family. I could not leave them now, not now. My hair started falling out in clumps, so I decided to shave my head. That was tough, but I included my grandchildren in the shaving. The only order my adult children were given was ?make sure I don?t bleed?. The kids had fun taking turns with the shaver. They even gave me a pink Mohawk. I have pictures and it makes me smile each time I look at them. I had 4 rounds over an 8-week period of a combination of Cytoxan and Adriamycin (red devil). These two drugs were very rough on my body. I was admitted twice with neutropenia and had to be quarantined each time. This was a very hard time for me and very depressing, but I still knew God was in charge. My 2nd round of chemo was Taxol and it was easier on my body. I had once a week treatments for 12 weeks. My final chemo treatment was on July 10, 2014. My family and co-workers surprised me when they came into the chemo infusion center with pink umbrellas and pink boas while 2nd lining to celebrate my last chemo. They brought Petit Fours and pink cupcakes to share with all the ladies that were going through exactly what I had just gone through. It was an exciting day for me and very emotional too. I don?t cry often, but that day I shed quite a few tears. I still have 7 years to be on the cancer drug Arimidex, but God has this. I gave it to Him on October 2, 2013! So tonight, I start a new journey. ?I?m very proud, grateful and happy to participate in ?You Night?and walk with all of you ?my sisters?! This is for me and Kappy. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
E ve V avrick PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
C harlotte F algout PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
P am M oss, J aime A guda & Tracy U lrich PHOTOGRAPHY BY DYLAN MARAS WHITE DONUT PRODUCTIONS
JAIME AGUDA My name is Jaime Danielle Aguda, formally known as Jaime Aguda Falgout, and Mrs. New Orleans 2014-2016. I'm 41, a recently divorced, single mother of 2, 14 year old Madison and an 11 year old Preston...who are my pride and joy...my whole life! I'm a registered nurse of 15 years now working in outpatient oncology at EJGH, administering chemotherapy on patients with all types of cancer. I have an extensive OB and GI medical history and here's just a glimpse of it... My mother was diagnosed at age 39 with breast cancer and passed away at age 46. Her mother also had breast cancer and lived to be 89 with 1 mastectomy. I was 12 when my mother died so with my family history, and having 2 children of my own, I decided to get tested for the BRCA 1 gene in 2005. W hile I was trying for a second child with my (ex) husband, after losing 3 trying for son, God blessed me with a baby boy. After we had him, we tried for a third. I lost another one. I was told that I couldn't have any more children on my own unless I did IVF because I had both fallopian tubes removed for ectopic pregnancies. After 2 failed attempts at IVF, I sent my OBGYN my BRCA results for his interpretation. This was the time Angelina Jolie had announced her brave decision. My OB was shocked that I had waited so long and sat on these results. He told me I needed a mastectomy with reconstruction ASAP. I researched local surgeons and found Dr. Sadeghi, after consulting with another surgical group first.. As a nurse, I always get a second opinion. I went with my gut feeling, which is always right, and chose to have Dr. Sadeghi perform my surgery. I felt most comfortable with him and trusted him 100%. In December 2013, I underwent my stage 1: a nipple and skin sparing mastectomy with reconstruction using the DIEP and PAP procedures. In March 2014 was my stage 2: liposuction with fat grafting and lowering my abdominal incision. In December 2014 I had a scar revision done to the scars under my buttocks. In October 2016, I had a revision done to my right breast. I've been a patient of Dr. Sadeghi's since August 2013 when I first found him and he has been one of the most influential people in my life since then. Not only did I reduce my chances of breast cancer drastically from 87% to 5% with the prophylactic choice I made, but Dr. Sadeghi transformed my body. I've worked in the medical field since 2000, and Dr. Sadeghi has been one of very few physicians that I've experienced having impeccable bedside manner, professionalism, knowledge, and detailed experience within his line of work. He is truly an artist with his hands and an overall good man and excellent surgeon. I will continue my fight my battle of having the BRCA 1 gene with a total hysterectomy next summer, 2018, to further reduce my chances of ovarian cancer from 44% to 5%. I will do anything to make sure I am here and alive and well to watch my children grow up, unlike my mother. I've always said there's a reason she was taken from us (4 children under the age of 17) at such young ages...and that reason appears to be so that I can fight her fight...the chance she wasn't given.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DYLAN M ARAS WHITE DONUT PRODUCTIONS
PRIESTLEY FRANK April 16th 2000 was the happiest day of my life! At 9:32 that morning I delivered a beautiful and healthy baby girl. I was planning on nursing and after a week of trying and supplementing with formula, I gave up. This might have been a blessing in disguise. After about 2 months I found a lump on my left breast. I immediately called my OBGYN and went in to see about it. I was told it was a clogged milk duct and to apply warm compresses to it. So, I did and nothing changed. I called again and went in and my doctor, still not seeming concerned, decided to order an ultra sound. I went to University of Pennsylvania and had an ultrasound and was told it was a "complex cyst." The doctor said because of my age (I was 30), that most likely it was nothing to be worried about. The doctor said I could do a biopsy, but he did not think it was necessary. About a month went by, and I decided to see a general surgeon. I asked him what he would do if it were his daughter sitting in my position. His exact words were, "I'd get it out." So, thats what we did the following week. I asked to see it and actually held bottle containing this "cyst". After a few days, I began calling the surgeons office to find out my results. On August 30th, 2000 and after multiple calls, he called me back around 6 pm and said "I don't know how to tell you this, but its cancer."Its hard to describe the feeling that came over me. He also said I must be at the hospital by 8am because I had appointments with an oncologist and a radiation oncologist. The next morning I met my treatment team. I hated them at first. I felt like they were my enemy. I sat in my oncologist"s office with my 4 month old daughter in her carrier next to me. I asked her if I was going to die. Her answer, "I don't know". After the meeting, I was told I must have a mammogram, MRI and find a surgeon that specialized in breast surgery. I was lucky, very lucky. My husband worked for a large healthcare management company. One of the hospitals was Medical College of Pennsylvania which I believe was the first female medical school in the nation. It was there that I met Dr. Lori Jardines. I immediately knew I'd found the doctor that would care for me. She became my angel that would save me. The surgery was scheduled for the following week and the plan was that after a few weeks of healing I would begin chemo followed with radiation. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
PRIESTLY CONT'D I decided to try for a lumpectomy knowing that I may have to have a mastectomy if the cancer had spread too much. My surgeon operated for 8 hours trying to reshape my breast for a good cosmetic outcome after removing about a third of it. It was determined I was stage one with no lymph node involvement. Weeks later, I began what would be 4 rounds of chemotherapy. The actual treatment wasn't too bad. It was the hair loss that was so horrible to me. When my daughter began to pull clumps of my hair out I knew it was time to shave my head. My husband did this and did it so it was something we were dealing with together. I was so sad and felt so ugly. He hugged me and told me not to worry. It was a moment I will never forget. During this time I would rock my daughter to sleep every night. I would hold her and rock for hours. I wanted to be with her all the time because I was so scared I wouldn't get to raise her. As I mentioned earlier, at first I hated my oncologist and radiation oncologist. Little did I know at that time that within the next 6 months they too would become part of my team of angels. This team of three ladies saved my life. Once it was over, next came the fear that it would come back. I think it took me about five years to feel like I'd survived. Through the years I've had several "scares". However, its all been ok. Sometimes when I see other ladies losing their battle with cancer, I wonder why me, God? Why was I allowed to live and so many others aren't? Then, I look at my daughter and I know I have more to do here. She is 17 and going to be a senior in high school! I'm not sure if it was all the holding her when she was a baby, but she still lets me hold her. Last spring I took her to Disney World. She walked through the Magic Kingdom and held my hand. What teenager does that?!?! I'm lucky and very blessed. Being part of You Night has allowed me to meet knew friends that know exactly how I feel and how I still feel scared sometimes. Hopefully, going forward I can give a few ladies some support and hope. I think of the ladies of You Night my new team of angels.
JENNETTER DOBARD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
My Journey began in August, 2012 when my faith was put to the test. During my normal mammogram as I sat in the doctor?s office waiting on the results, I had no way of knowing that the normalcy that I had known in my life was about to be turned upside down. I sat anxiously waiting to get the results and after several minutes I was escorted back to the office to meet with the radiologist. Trying desperately to maintain my composure, I knew something was wrong because the expression on the radiologist face told the story. My heart began to beat at an alarming rate. We viewed the x-rays together and she pointed out the small image of a dark spot that was visible on my right breast, added news came ? it?s cancerous. She continued by stating she would need to view my films from the previous year exam for a comparison. I immediately contacted my previous doctor in Illinois as I had recently relocated to New Orleans. I was convinced in my mind that the presence of the dark spot was not cancerous. After meeting with my gynecologist to review the results again she didn?t want to leave anything to chance, therefore, I was referred for a second mammogram and biopsy. Throughout my life I have placed my faith and trust in God and believed that he would
(JENNETTER Cont 'd) direct my path no matter what obstacle I might face, I will ?Trust Him.?As I waited for the biopsy results I was confident that the biopsy would be negative. A few weeks later the unwelcomed results came and the words from Dr. Steven Jones were ?Jennetter this is definitely not the results I expected. The biopsy report confirms you have cancer.?A wave of uncontrollable emotions came over me I began to feel light headed and nauseous. I could not hold back the tears. As I gained my composure I embraced the unexpected news and resolved that I must stay strong for my family. Dr. Jones immediately contacted my husband and gave him the results. After carefully weighing all my options, I decided to have a lumpectomy. From November 2012 through January 2013, I had two surgeries, four treatments of chemotherapy, eight weeks of radiation, a full year of the Herceptin drug, and follow up visits with Dr. Steven Jones, my surgeon, and Dr. Collins- Burrow my oncologist. I am blessed to have an amazing, loving and caring family, my husband has been there throughout this journey. My daughter and son continues to inspire me to constantly FIGHT to win this battle. I am also blessed to have a wonderful mother, siblings, an entourage of devoted friends, dynamic prayer warriors and an EXCEPTIONAL team of medical professionals who provided the network of love, prayers support and the encouragement I needed during one of the most difficult chapters in my life. I could not have known then, but God was using me by equipping me with a testimony to share my story with someone else along the way. I look back on this chapter in my life and thank ?God? for using me for his glory! Little did I realize that I was encouraging others who were receiving treatment during that very same time. I had several women who expressed how I had encouraged them by my attitude, my smile and my positive actions. It seems that my infectious smile and positive attitude and words of encouragement had given them strength. My testament of inner strength was made evident by continuous performance of my duties as a Human Resources Director. God oftentimes throughout a crisis leaves a witness to tell the story to encourage others by send ng a message that miracles do happen in the twenty-first century. How do I know? I am that miracle; I am a breast cancer survivor!! Since being diagnosed with breast cancer I have the desire to share my story to help and encourage other women. I am proud to be a part of ?YOU Night? and sharing this moment with such amazing women. It is with great gratitude and humbleness that I say ?Thank You?to the You Night Team and sponsors who have given unconditionally of their time, resources, words of encouragement and a platform for Cancer survivors to share their story. Thanks for being a light for so many women and empowering women to continue to be the best they can be.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
NICOLE MATHERNE On October 22, 2013, my journey begins and turns into one of the longest and life changing days of my life. I went to see my gynecologist about a lump on my right breast. The lump was about the size of quarter and it was raised so you could feel it. I was so scared because I thought I?m 27 with new baby how could I have cancer. Dr. Bader took one look and sent me down stairs to ultrasound. My mom cried because she knew I had the dreaded ?C?word. I got a mammogram and was sent upstairs to talk with the breast specialist Dr. Hailey. He talked to my mom and I about the mammogram and if I could do some biopsies so I had four biopsies done that day. On October 29, 2013 at 2:30 pm I got the call from Dr. Hailey you have cancer and can you come to the office tomorrow to discuss your treatment plan. My parents, husband and I went to see the Dr. Hailey and he told us I had Breast Cancer Stage 3 invasive triple negative and BRCA 1 gene mutation. So, appointments were made to go see a Dr. Spell-chemo oncologist, Dr. Freel-plastic surgeon, and Dr. Revine-radiologist oncologist. I completed 16 rounds of chemotherapy at Mary Bird Perkins in Baton Rouge. On June 7, 2014, I had bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders and hysterectomy at Woman?s Hospital in Baton Rouge. Then completed 30 rounds of radiation on both sides. Then I got sick and one of my tissue expanders had to be removed and I was devastated. So, I had a Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction a few months later and then had tissue expanders removed and implants put in. I am so grateful and thankful to all my doctors and nurses that help me throughout this whole journey. I could have not made it through this journey without my wonderful team of support from my parents, husband, son, family, friends, and coworkers so thank you for all the prayers and love from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, Kirstie St. Germain, for getting me involved with You Night, I will be forever grateful for this amazing experience and the sisters I have gained from this awesome event and thank you to the You Night Team and Sponsors because with you this would not be possible. I will be celebrating 3 years cancer free this year!!!! PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DYLAN MARAS WHITE DONUT PRODUCTIONS
TRACY ULRHICH My Name is Tracy Ulrich I am 47 years old a mother of twins boy and girl and grandmother of 7! I was diagnosed with BRCA 1 Gene Mutation on March 4, 2010. My physical heath was not good I had a lot of pre-cancer biopsies. I was experiencing frequent illnesses such as pneumonia, Flu, fevers! Two months later on May 14, 2010 I underwent a bi- lateral, double mastectomy! At that time I was under the care of a physician in Mississippi little did I know I was misinformed of my diagnosis! That same physician preformed tissue expander's for the placement of implants. My body began to reject the surgery because of the foreign objects that were place there to replace what had been taking. I then developed MERSA Staph in my blood and Fistulas began developing which caused a 2 year long battle in wound care with a wound vac and hyperbaric chamber's. On September 9, 2012 I met Dr. Robert Allen with the assistance of Dr. Ali Sadeghi at Omega hospital in New Orleans two of the finest surgeons then conducted the DIEP Flap reconstruction. Since March 2010 I've had 16 surgeries with compilations such as hernia's. But I'm here! Early detection saved my life! I have been cancer free since 2014 I am a Stage 1 BRCA 1 survior! I think through it all I found how week I can be and also how strong!!! I pulled my strength from loved one and great friends. As well as Dr Ali Sadeghi that reminded me I was a fighter when I lost my faith!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
SHELLY RUFFIN Giving all glory to God, for by His Stripes I was Healed!!! My journey began in May of 2007, I was 36 years old and the mother of 3 beautiful young girls. I believe God was in the midst of my diagnosis from day one and I also believe this was NOT unto death this is unto His glory. I went in for a routine yearly examine to my Christian Gynecologist Dr Bennie Nobles after the examination he handed me a referral for a mammogram. I looked at the referral and immediately questioned Dr
Nobles stating ?I'm only 36 years old women don't normally have mammograms done until their 40? He calmly stated ?I know, but I?d like you to make an appointment to have this done. It was as if he had Devine instructions to give me. I remember leaving the office thinking I'll do this later after all my life was busy with work, dance practices and homework. Days later I decided to make an appointment and that?s where it all began. I remember going through a series of test including mammograms X-rays MRI ultrasound and ultimately a biopsy. Having done the biopsy on Friday waiting for the results over the weekend was nerve wracking. My husband worked in medicine and has Doctor friends where my tissue was being processed. He consulted with them and decided to explain to me what I was facing. I remember him looking at me with sadness in his eyes saying we?re going to get through this. I stood there puzzled confused and in denial thinking to myself get through what??? He kept trying to give me hints and hope at the same time but I still wasn?t getting it. Finally he said ?Shell it?s Cancer? and then all of a sudden I got it. I fell to the floor crying uncontrollably. If anyone know me also know I'm not a crier. My only though was of my girls, I had a deep aching in my heart for them, I kept thinking about how much they needed me. I've always had strong faith and immediately felt Gods presence surrounding me. After a while of feeling a sense of despair, I regained my composure and propelled into survival mode. I got up off the floor and ask God to please give me the strength I needed to get through this. My approach was simple if its broken
let's fix it! I put on my brave face and prepared to fight. I didn't want my girls or anyone else to worry about me so as I bravely went through surgery and treatment, I got up morning got dressed, put my makeup on and tried to keep things as normal as possible but deep down I was still hurting. I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in situ Hormone Receptive Positive in my right breast. I elected to have a Lumpectomy Sentinel Nodes removed with clear margins, endured 35 treatments of Radiation at East Jefferson General which included treatment 5 days a week for 7 weeks and I took the medication Tamoxifen for 5 years. Life was getting back to somewhat normal and then all of a sudden a bombshell. Approximately 6 years later in 2013 I had a reoccurrence this time it appeared in my left Breast. This diagnoses knocked the wind out of me and I remember the look in Dr Gordan?s eyes when he had to tell me those words again. I could tell he was genuinely heartbroken to have to deliver such a blow. AGAIN I was diagnosed with DCIS but this time Hormone Receptive Negative which means it was different from the first diagnosis. I underwent another Lumpectomy and did 35 more treatments of Radiation at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. I never questioned God throughout all of this as I knew he had his hand on me this whole time. Just before Christmas 2016 I was diagnosed for the 3rd time with Metastatic HER2 Negative Stage 3
Invasive BC reaching one of my Axillary Lymph Nodes. I'm currently in treatment, I've had 12 rounds of weekly Taxol and 4 rounds of Adriamycin and Cytoxan also known as (red devil) refusing to accept anything named as such to run through my veins so I conveniently renamed it the Precious Blood of Jesus. Chemotherapy has been successful revealing Tumor shrinkage and in some areas NO evidence of disease. Although it's been successful it's also been extremely difficult on my body. I've experienced nausea, headaches, steroid jitters, chemo brain, weight gain, nails the soles of my feet turning brown, shortness of breathe, hot flashes and the lost of all my hair but I still believe ALL things are working together for MY good. I'm scheduled for a Bilateral Mastectomy and more Radiation at MD Anderson Cancer Center in August. My Faith is much stronger than my Fear but sometimes it's hard to understand GODS plan. I constantly remind myself that it's not for me to understand, my job is to share with others what HE has done for ME! My wonderful family and dear friends have been the pillar of my strength, there are too many of them to name but they know who you are and I do believe God has surrounded me with Angels here on earth. There are NO words that can possibly express my gratitude and the Love I have in my heart for each of you. W hat I've learned throughout my journey is that God is a Healer, Life is truly short, attitude is everything and by all means do-not leave this world with any regrets. Love harder and live your Best life. Tonight I celebrate ALL Survivors as this is NOT for the faint at Heart and I walk for those who've gained their wings. I hope to Inspire Encourage and to Assist anyone facing this horrid disease. God is not finished with me yet, I've documented my journey on my Facebook post in hopes to remind women everywhere that time is of the essence and early detection is key.My Faith has been tested but I?ll continue to stand on His promise knowing without a shadow of a doubt my best days are still ahead.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
S helly R uffin
I never imagined in my 30s that I would be diagnosed with breast cancer. After finding a lump while taking a shower, I rushed to the doctor to only be told that it was a cyst and not to worry. Well, after worrying for three months, I decided to get a second opinion and was told that the decision likely saved my life. I immediately met with an oncologist and surgeon and scheduled a lumpectomy for the following week. During my recovery, chemotherapy treatments, and radiation therapy, I was blessed to meet and become friends with many wonderful doctors, nurses, technicians, and fellow cancer patients. The healing process was life changing for me in that I not only became stronger, mentally and physically, I allowed myself to ask for help. I had always thought that asking would make me weak but it made me stronger and closer to people in ways I never thought possible.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
LISA W EEKS
In the week after my diagnosis I attended a meeting with a group of newly diagnosed cancer patients. The speaker told a story about being diagnosed with lymphoma 25 years earlier. She had been told the prognosis was bleak and would likely die within six months. But here she was, 25 years later, saying that cancer was a ?gift.? I couldn?t believe it and certainly wasn?t in a thankful place at the time. But now, 19 years later and cancer free, I can honestly say that cancer was one of the greatest gifts I?ve ever received and the people I?ve met and become close to because of it are the ?icing on the cake.?
PAM MOSS On March 6, 2015, I had my mammogram. Right after getting it done, they did an ultrasound. The following week, they called to schedule a biopsy on March 17th. On March 18th, I received a call from my PCP, Dr. Gloria Leary to come and see her. That's when I heard, "You have Breast Cancer." I was devastated. All I can think of was, "W hy me?" Tears started flowing and it took her awhile to calm me down. W hen I asked her what will happen from this point, she told me what three options I would probably have to chose. I cried all the way home with the uncertainy of what was to come next. Not even sure how I even made it home through all the tears or how I was going to tell my daughter and family I had beast cancer.W hen I met with the General Surgeon, Dr. Ralph Corsetti, found out it was stage 1, ductile invasive, EP positive and that it was so far back I would not have felt it. Once he explained the three options in detail, I felt scared hearing those options. It was a hard decision to make and I chose the double mastectomy with reconstruction. Not even sure if this was the right choice. This option lead me to Dr. Alireza Sadeghi who performed the resconstruction. Had my 1st phase in May 2015, after the surgery was complete, he told me he repaired a hernia, I didn't even know I had. The good news was they were able to remove all the cancer and I didn't have to have chemo or radiation. The 2nd phase was August 2015, surgery went well but developed 3 infections in the belly area. By the 3rd infection, had to have another surgery in February of 2016 and found out the infections were caused by a small piece of mesh that did not dissolve from the first surgery. Was also told I had an infection in my blood and all I can think of was, "W hat next?" In June of 2016, the hernia came back and had to have it removed. Then in late November, had a stone in my left salivary gland which was removed in December 2016. Before all my surgeries, I prayed to God every day to guide the surgeons hands in the right direction with the knowledge he has given them and give them strength while peforming the procedures. It was very overwhelming having to have mutliple surgeries. All I kept on asking was, "W hen will all of the surgeries end? Not sure how much more I can take". Right now I'm 2 years cancer free and so very thankful to be here. It was a rough ride to take and having to do it alone was not easy and I'm very thankful for my friend Michelle Verdin for being there for me through this journey in my life.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
LORI MENTEL As I type this, I am fine - as healthy as could be. But it didn?t come easy. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in 2011. I recall feeling something strange in my breast, but I?d recently had a mammogram which indicated nothing. I mentioned it to my gynecologist, and thankfully, she insisted I get it checked out. I?ll never forget going to the Women?s Imaging Center, getting scanned, but then being told to wait because they wanted a doctor to check it out, then another doctor, then another scan. I was there for hours, basically getting the VIP treatment - which is never a good thing in a Women?s Imaging Center. I got the call while I was at work, with people popping into my office, and me waving them off, in a daze. Then it was all a blur of appointments with surgeons, plastic surgeons, geneticists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and on and on. I had a bilateral mastectomy. My shoulders (which had been problematic before) were frozen afterwards. So add physical therapy to the list of appointments. Since I was relatively young and healthy, we opted for dose-dense chemotherapy - getting my protocol every two weeks instead of every three weeks. Unfortunately, one of the agents damaged my heart, so I had to switch back to a regular course of treatment, sans the damaging agent, which took much longer over five months of steroid jitters,
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
bone pain, sickness, chemo-brain (it?s real!) and of course, a shiny bald dome (I never could get used to wearing scarves or wigs). Add a cardiologist to the list. Then came radiation, 33 fractals. The radiation itself was easy. But it was incredibly painful getting my jacked-up shoulders to stay put during the treatments. Then reconstruction surgeries. Finally, over a year later, it was all done. But during that time, I didn?t focus so much on me because much worse things were happening. My brother had been diagnosed with kidney cancer and had massive surgeries, removing all but 1/3 of one kidney. Then my mom died. I was the lucky one. My husband and I decided that after all of this, it was crazy for me to keep slaving away in the corporate rat race. We needed to
LORI M ENTEL (CONT'D) live without so much stress, and enjoy ourselves more. So I quit my stressful career, he rearranged his career goals, and we moved to New Orleans. And then more tragic news: my sister died of a heart attack. I was shaken to the core, and utterly shocked. But I was determined to keep living a happy life. Then, in 2015, I was diagnosed with MALT lymphoma, a rare form of lymphoma in my eyes. (Pro-Tip: make sure you know what the ?review by the specialist? means so you can mentally prepare yourself for a biopsy in the eye). Fifteen more fractals of radiation later, and that was that. And here I am, standing tall (well, 5?3? tall!). I have always tried to see the good in every situation. Losing my mom and sister, and my brother ?s illness (and now my other brother ?s cancer, as well), make that extremely difficult. But it also puts my own cancer in perspective. Its nothing. I slayed those dragons. I know I?ve been exceedingly lucky. I have a devoted husband who was by my side every step of the way. I have the best family anyone could ever imagine and they were there for me when I needed it, and when I didn?t know I needed it. I have wonderful friends who reminded me constantly how wonderful life is when you have friendships like theirs. They all kept me laughing throughout everything. I truly believe that positive thinking and a sense of humor leads to better health. Its not a miracle cure, but it sure helps. And I?m still here. So I?m going to keep keep injecting positivity, and a sense of humor into the You Night sisterhood, because I want every one of us to have the last laugh. ]imagine and they were there for me when I needed it, and when I didn?t know I needed it. I have wonderful friends who reminded me constantly how wonderful life is when you have friendships like theirs. They all kept me laughing throughout everything. I truly believe that positive thinking and a sense of humor leads to better health. Its not a miracle cure, but it sure helps. And I?m still here. So I?m going to keep keep injecting positivity, and a sense of humor into the You Night sisterhood, because I want every one of us to have the last laugh. PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
EILEEN LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACIE MORRIS SCHAEFER
My mother died at fifty four after her breast cancer metastasized to her liver and ultimately to her lungs. She was first diagnosed at forty eight and based on her stage of breast cancer given six months to live. Her life force was strong and she lived six years. I always knew I would get breast cancer. It was not a matter of if but when. Because of my family history I started to get mammograms at twenty four. At forty, I read that some breast cancers did not show up on a mammogram. I started asking my gynecologist to add an ultrasound. I would patiently argue with the women?s center I visited every year that if the insurance didn't cover it I would pay for it myself. Insurance always paid. At forty eight years old I had my yearly mammogram and ultrasound in January 2015. Ultrasound technician found a small lump in left breast that did not show up on the mammogram. OMG I was really following in my mother?s footsteps. Two weeks later I had a core needle biopsy. The day I received the results I called my husband, who was in his head and neck cancer surgeon?s office for a checkup. Bill had just finished radiation and chemo in December 2014. I told him that my cancer came back positive. He thought I meant positive as in no cancer! W hen his surgeon heard what happened he forgot about Bill and started to make some calls to doctors for me. I had just finished being the caregiver for my husband for six months, now it was his turn to take care of me. I planned out my cancer plan and surgeries like a project. Wanted to have everything done in one year. Was a trooper. Continued to work during the year of four surgeries and breast reconstruction. After all the surgeries, everyone thinks it?s time for you to move on, people start calling you a breast cancer survivor. Work assumes you are fine to take on 110% or more. Family and friends who haven't been sick or have not been a care giver believe you should be back to normal. You don't feel normal, you have been through an emotional and physical wringer. Went to a local hospital's breast cancer support group. Didn't feel a connection to anyone since you just sit and listen to a new topic each month. Friend of mine told me she had been through the You Night program. Said it was one of the best things that happened to her, especially the friendships. I finally signed up six months later. From the first meet and greet, I knew this was my group. Fantastic group of women with whom you can let it all hang out. Showed up at the music video shoot at CAC for hair and makeup. Loved everyone sitting around discussing wigs, how their hair grew back in, how recent biopsies went, and side effects from different meds, fatigue or anything else they felt like discussing. No embarrassment here only joy of being able to share it with others who understand. I thought, this is my group. Maybe I can get through this and move on to living again.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
CHERYL McKEY My prayer with this journey is that somewhere along the line of my story you will feel hope and strength. They say time flies when you are having fun. I would like to say time has flown by because my life has been a blast, full of laughter and fun, but looking back it is hard to believe that four years ago, my life was drastically changed forever because of that moment where time stood still and life seemed hopeless. But here I was at the age of 57 a mother of four sons, daughter, and grandmother of 13 and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer is no respective persons; It doesn't care who you are, what color you are, even your age doesn?t matter; but we know this; it?s here to destroy your life. I remember feeling as if I could not breathe and the sting of death was at my door. The words "You have Cancer ?the doctor spoke and at that moment the shock took over me. Once I cried day and night I began to feel I?m not ready to leave this world. I was not ready to leave family behind so my purpose on earth was not fulfilled yet, and I was ready to put my boxing gloves on and fight this disease. Immediately I began six months of Chemotherapy, and six weeks of radiation. Going to the clinic and accepting the process and learning how your body will change was challenging. For the moments when you are lying in your bed trying to sleep, you feel all alone with the thoughts of "How will I survive this?" There were so many days it would take all my energy to get out of the bed, but I would pray for God to give me the strength. I ask God to give my husband Jewel McKey the strength to take care of me even when I had no hair and didn?t look like the bride he once married. To my family, and friends who took care of me whether it was a phone call, visit are a cards etc.; Thank You. This message is for everyone to see that through this journey there is hope when God steps in and hold your hand to bring you through the darkness but into his marvelous light. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
My story is one of gratitude, that the two times I have had cancer (in addition to numerous basal cell skin cancers) it has been treatable and curable. It was scary hearing one of my doctors say my body doesn't fight off cancer cells well, but as of now,I am cancer free. My first cancer was thyroid cancer during Katrina, my thyroid was removed, I took radioactive iodine (and glowed in the dark) and the cancer was cured. About ten years later, I was diagnosed with desmoplastic melanoma which presented inside my bottom lip. The tumors were surgically removed and I am now missing a part of my already small mouth. My very funny surgeon said, "You won't have to be a hermit", and I have not. I was treated with radiation and have been cancer free for two years. I lost my dear friend to pancreatic cancer a few weeks ago. I remember when we learned she had cancer, we were all hoping for a treatable, curable type. She was not so lucky. I count my blessings every day, enjoy each day to the fullest, and hope I will stay cancer free. I pray for health for my family and friends. My motto is, "Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first," by Ernestine Ulmer. We can live our lives believing we are in control, but we cannot control what will happen to ourselves or our loved ones. W hen tragic events happen to us or our loved ones, we view the world differently. I want to continue to live each day to the fullest and pray for those who have lost their battles. Thank you to You Night for this opportunity.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CANDRA GEORGE
PHYLLIS SMITH
Con t act : M at t h ew Hen r y 337.739.2452 m at t @t apsn ap.n et w w w.t apsn ap1092.com
Of f icial Alu m St ylist
Tracie Morris Schaefer Studio U 504-234-8822
Food and Beverages were generously provided by t hese communit y part ners:
You Night NOLA 2017 w as underw rit ten by t hese generous sponsors
The
L angridgeFamily
Lifetime Legacy Partners & Donors COM M UNITY LIFETIM E LEGACY PARTNERS
Insurance
FOX
Crescent Tow ing
NOLA.com
(With thanks for the generous financial contributions that help us sustain and grow our program)
Cooper T. Smith M ooring
Times Picayune
M ichele Cooper, M . D.
Gambel Communications
Evamor
M Ix & Shine M arketing & PR
Center for Restorative Breast Surgery
Bluew ater M arine
Shane & Holley Guidry Foundation
Belle Chasse M arine
Center for Women' s Health
IV Capital, Sidney D. Torres, IV
Southern Institute for Women' s Sexual Health
Adams & Reese LLP
Crescent River Port Pilots' Foundation
Radiology & Interventional Associates of M etairie
Pontchartrain Cancer Center
The Radiologist at EJGH
Celeste Lagarde, M .D.
Alice M cNeely Real Estate
Richard Celantano, M .D.
Byrd Larberg
Associated Branch Pilots
First NBC Bank
Diagnostic Imaging Services
H2O Salon & Spa M etairie
Lakeside Women?s Specialty Center
H20 Salon Northshore
Sculpting Center of New Orleans Bergeron M otors Northshore Plastic Surgery Langridge Family Florida M arine Transporters Aflac
Rehab Dynamics
Air Salon & Blow Dry Bar Barrios Kingsdorf & Casteix The M ix Casey Richie PJ' s Coffee of New Orleans Fat Tuesday
Kendra Scott Emma' s Shoes & Accessories Chemo Beanies Adolfo' s Restaurant & Apple Barrel Bar Port Ship Service Haynie Family Foundation Ponchartrain Healthcare Center Ship Tech Services M rs. Patricia Bopp The M ix Claudia Billeaud Genpath Dr.Chad Domangue Brow n & M ary
Iberia Bank
Broadmoor
The Center for Aesthetics & Reconstruction
Lafarge
Rusty Janssen, III
Doug Brooks
Dynamic Physical Therapy
Joe LeBlanc, DDS
Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson, L.L.P.
Rich M auti Cancer Fund
Healthcare Proprietors Agency
Joy Scott
Art & Stephani Lentini
Columbia Street M ercantile
Eden Gorney
Associated Terminals /
Because I Am M e Enterprises
Turn Services
Karen T. Sanborn
GIFTING DONORS
Northshore Oncology and Associates
Haynie Family Foundation
Kendra Scott
Inside Northside
Jean Therapy
Paretti Family of Dealerships
Inside New Orleans
Kismet Cosmetics
C.J. Ladner & State Farm
WGNO
You Night Production EXECUTIVE PRODUCER / FOUNDER Lisa M cKenzie
EVENT LOGISTICS AND REGISTRATION Eloise Early Nurses from the Center for Restorative Breast Surgery Elaine Roark
M ichelle Dunnick
Stephanie Rivers PROGRAM , GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRINTING
Charo Arnold
Lisa M cKenzie
Nancy Ruiz
Eloise Early
Holley Haag
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Tiffany Sw oboda
M ichelle Dunnick
Tiffany Sw oboda Daw n Gallo
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT, FOOD AND BEVERAGE M ANAGER
Lauren Siegel
Deidra Langridge
Amanda Rogers Rhonda Beals Perez
DECORATING
Julie M ason Joyce Varghese, M usic Video
VIP EXPERIENCE
M ichelle Dunnick Ruth Avila Kristyn Kemp Sandy Hicks
Ysonde Strecker
Nadja Hays Eloise Early
Sara M arie Burnette
Kiersten Reed
WITH THANKS TO H2O Receptionists, Phone Bank and the Cleanse and Treatment Department
Jackie Barre
Timeless Beauty Day Spa
Jerry Parker Amanda Eyes Delchamps
M iranda Webb, Ow ner and her team
DRESSING ROOM Rhonda Perez
Rhonda Ebel
White Donut Productions
Tamica Lee
Pigeon Catering
Eloise Early
Rhonda King
BACKSTAGE STYLISTS FOR ALUM S
Angela Becnel
Lisa M cKenzie
Rebecca Alley
Victoria Rogers
Kenny Lopez
SOCIAL M EDIA
M egan Vindigni
Charo Arnold
Dylan M aras and Team
Lisa M cKenzie
Julie Brauner
Rose Salvaggio
FOOD AND BEVERAGE DONATION TEAM
VIDEO CREATIVE
Dane Troullliet
M argaret Rogers
M ASTERS OF CEREM ONY
Tracie M orris Schaefer and Carol Costanza, StudioU
Dana Cancienne
Rhonda Braquet
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY:
Candra George, M y Creative Reality
Chelsey Walter
Alisha Kennedy
Cheryl Dendinger OUTREACH DIRECTOR
Allison Schacheil
H2O M AKE-UP
BIG SISTER PROGRAM
Daw n Gallo
Holli Gaspard, Ow ner
Kristen Naquin Johnson
Angela Becnel
M ODEL, SALON AND BOUTIQUE LIAISON
BACKSTAGE CREW
Tammy Broussard Leslie Legania
OFFICIAL NOLA CLASS OF 2017 STYLISTS FROM H2O
Hyde Knight
Wayne Rogers RUNWAY COACHES AND CHOREOGRAPHERS
Holley Haag
Eloise Early
Holley Haag
Beth Farinola
EVENT CHAIRPERSONS
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
12 Season' s Catering
BOUTIQUE Stephanie Rivers
GUEST SPEAKERS
Event Rental
Jay Saux, M D
Fancy Faces
Pastor Wayne Rogers
See-Hear Production
Scott Sullivan, M D
Skyline Displays
Katherine Williams, M D
Expo Signs
Kelly Brew ster, M SN, WHM P
Freeman
STUDENT PHILANTHROPY
Aimee Schw artz, RN
Shelly M iddleberg
Halle M cKenzie
Crescent River Port Pilots' Foundation
Joel Jackson
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POST PARTY ENTERTAINM ENT Phil from Countdow n Sound and Rich M auti
You Night Product ion (cont 'd) "YOU NIGHTED KINGDOM " LOGO DESIGN
COLLECTION 2 STYLISTS (CONTEM PORARY / HEM LINE)
Hailey Aid
Tracy Lambert Ashley Weilenman
501(c)3 FISCAL SPONSOR The Infinity Initiative
ANSWERS TO THE BRITISH SLANG QUIZ If someone says, "You are barmy"...what are t hey saying? c) You're crazy
M EDIA PARTNERS
The St. Tammany Farmer Times Picayune
If someone says, "St op f annying around", t hey are saying: c) Stop procrastinating
NOLA.COM
"Give us a bel l " means: a) Give us a call
WDSU
WGSO STAGE/LIGHTING/DECOR
I'm going f or a "Jimmy". What am I doing?
See Hear Productions
c) Going for a beer
Royal Productions Fancy Faces
"H e' s all mouth and no trousers" "Y ou' re a real corker! "
" YOU'RE A DA M P SQUI D"
""I t' s best to know one' s onions" "Y ou' re bent as a nine bob note"
Showing off without the qualities to go with it
Skyline Displays Freeman
"Corker " is used to describe something outstanding Often misheard as "damp squid", the phrase "damp squib" has since come into general use to mean anything that fails to meet expectations. To be experienced or knowledgeable about a subject The reference comes from pre-decimalisation in UK (1971), when a ten shilling (bob) note was valid currency but no such note as nine shillings existed.
Kay Jordan, Gulf Coast Jagquars PRINTING Docucenter
PHOTOBOOTH TapSnap
Hoss Communications New OrleansLocal.com
If you see a coupl e making out , t hey are: b) Getting off
"SHAG' UAR"
WGNO New s w ith a Tw ist
WWLTV If someone t el l s you t o "bel t up", what are t hey saying? b) Asking you to shut up
M eghan Kuhn
St. Charles Avenue M agazine The Advocate
If someone says, "I'm bl addered" -- what are t hey saying? c) I'm sooooo drunk
COLLECTION 3 STYLISTS (GRAND FINALE / JEAN THERAPY)
VENUE PROVIDERS The home of Heidi Dugan (Photo Shoot) Contemporary Arts Center Solomon Episcopal Center TRAINING FACILITY Franco' s on M agazine Street
RETREAT COM M ITTEE Rhonda Ebel, Chair Jackie and Greg Barre Becky Gilbert Eloise Early Cheryl Dendinger M arie Campo Tom and Charo Arnold Nancy Thayer Alison Condon Beth Farinola Elaine Roark Bunny Rivers Jerry Parker
ScART COLLECTION 1 STYLISTS M ike Pow ers (FORM AL WEAR / FLEURT Cathy Deano BOUTIQUE) Renee M aloney Allison M cDonnel, Ow ner Rhonda Perez Dominique Pijeon Daw n Gallo Alexis M cDonnell
Kath er in e W il l il am s, M D, FACOG Cen ter for W om en 's H eal th Sou th er n In stitu te for W om en s' Sexu al H eal th
Lisa M cKen zie Fou n der / CEO You Nigh t Even ts. LLC
M ik e Power s Bu sin ess Devel opm en t & Fr an ch isin g Con su l tan t Pain tin g with a Twist
Empower One. Impact Many.
Jay Sau x, III
Kath y Ou br e, M S
Scott Su l l ivan M D, FACS
MD
Cen ter for Recon str u ctive Br east Su r ger y
Nor th sh or e On col ogy Associates
Lor r ie Powel , Ph D, RN
Gayl e Lock wood
Su r vivor sh ip Stu dies/ LSU H eal th Sch ool of Nu r sin g
Rich M au ti Rich M au ti Can cer Fou n dation
Own er Air Sal on & Bl ow Dr y Bar
An gel l e Al br igh t Fou n der ,Ch em o Bean ies You Nigh t St. Tam m an y Cl ass of 2013
COO Pon ch ar tr ain Can cer Cen ter
M ich ael H ol m es CFO Diagn ostic Im agin g Ser vices
Dr. M ar y Kath r yn Rodr igu e Licen sed Th er apist/ Fou n der Th e W el l n ess Stu dio
You Night Advisory Board A leadership team committed to helping women embrace life beyond cancer.
T
Every scar tells a story
We are excited to announce You Night 's new program called "ScART" (Scar Art )- a nat ional part nership w it h Paint ing w it h a Tw ist !
ScART (Scar-Art) fuses psycho social care, a sisterhood of survivors, and the power of acceptance in a supportive environment. ScART is a partnership between You Night Events and Painting with a Twist. ScART gives participants the opportunity to talk openly about scars, which can often feel ?taboo?, Cancer survivors sketch their scars, which are then transferred to canvas by Painting with a Twist studio artists. Participants meet as a group with other cancer survivors and then free-form their individual pieces of art to reflect the attitude they have about their scars. Through this experience, they develop a sisterhood of support with other women who have had cancer. Together they learn to find acceptance of their scars, while also seeing that their scars can be seen as beautiful or at that scars can be seen through a different lens. ScART is open to all female cancer survivors. Proceeds benefit You Night Empowering Events 501(c)3 fund, helping women embrace life beyond cancer.
Visit t he ScART exhibit in t he lobby of t he Contemporary Art s Center
You Night is a sisterhood of support designed around year-round empowering programs.
Being "cancer free" doesn't mean you are free from all that cancer brought or continues to bring in your life. You Night is a program that addresses the on-going needs of women who have had cancer. We offer a unique alternative to cancer support groups, through goal-oriented, team building activities, resulting in a powerful sisterhood of support. We plan year-round activities, including a summer retreat, on-going get-togethers, monthly ScART painting events, and our two signature runway shows. If you know a woman who can benefit from our program, please have them sign up for more information on our website.
You Night helps women embrace life beyond cancer. www.younightevents.com www.facebook.com/younightevents Instagram: younight_runway