Honoring our 2025 Sweet Survivors
Donna Thomas
OCCUPATION: Medical Records Lead (Retired )
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Homeless Ministry Volunteer with high schools bringing awareness to students working with nonprofit women groups.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
Boops on the Ridge
Champion of the Cause Award
New Orleans Culture Award
Imperial Court of Daughters
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Determined. Strong. Patient.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: For I am weak He makes me strong - 2nd Corinthians
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: On July 7, 2017 I was diagnosed with Her 2 Neu Ductal Carcinoma. After 3 mammograms and a biopsy it was evident that the C word had infiltrated my body. When told the news by my Dr. J, I took a deep breath and asked him “What do we do next?” I was alone at the visit and Dr. J asked if I wanted to call someone. I said no. I wasn’t alone. I took a another deep breath and said to myself “you can do this” and the journey began.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: With God all things are possible. You don’t have to be alone. We are our sisters keepers but you have to want to keep fighting, sisters.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: I was in shock but sometimes you have to encourage yourself.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: My family and to finish the work I started empowering others.
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: My good friend, Faye who is no longer here went to chemo with me so that my husband could work.
Monique Martinez
OCCUPATION: Licensed Practical Nurse
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Assisted with a medical tent for Tulane at Coca Cola plant
Worked the Aquarium medical tent at French Quarter Fest
German Fest Volunteer
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
A rehab nurse for 30 years
Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses
“Who would be likely to be caught singing at the nurse’s station” Award
“Most likely to pick up an extra shift” Award.
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Compassionate. Vivacious. Loyal.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: Just keep on trucking, it’s an oldie but take things day by day live to the fullest possible and enjoy every moment. Sometimes things get tough but you just experience the hurt and let it go and just keep on trucking!!!
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: In 2014 I noticed a lump so went to have it checked. I didn’t tell my family at first, especially when my parents were leaving for a cruise when I went for the biopsy. But when I went in for results my Mom was with me and I knew before they even told me because someone walked in with a pink bag. My heart sank. As advised I stepped up my exercise and lost about 55 lbs to prepare for Tx and surgery . Chemo was rough the first night, worst headache ever! I stayed with my parents and they slept with me all night. I decided with my brother and sister who is also in the medical profession to have a double mastectomy. Everything was going great! Continuing with my routine check ups in Oct 2022 I had to switch doctors about nine years after the first discovery. My new doctor did some scans which detected MBCA. I’m back in the fight against it again but remain optimistic.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: I always think to myself, you never know when something may happen. So always try to participate and enjoy even the little things in life. Find the things that bring joy and just do it! Even something as simple as listening to birds sing. It will bring comfort to your soul to appreciate the beauty of nature. Things are tough but you are stronger than you think! So go out and enjoy some music, sights of the park, sounds of water, and all the little things in life. Truly engage in the moment. It will bring comfort to your soul.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Honestly like my world fell apart hearing the words “no cure” which sent me into basically a mental breakdown, uncontrollable shaking, crying and heartache. It was like my world ended, I was totally defeated. My daughter called my mom to come get me because I was inconsolable.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I was not going to go down without a fight. I have my 3 daughters and 3 grandchildren to show that you can keep going, even when times are tough.
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: I just can’t put one but in general, my parents taking me in and helping me with this battle. They went out of their way, giving up their functions to help me. I have always been independent but they have always been there for me along with all my family - my brother, sister and 3 daughters.
Laila Morco Zissis
OCCUPATION: Wellness Mentor at Laila Morco Zissis, LLC
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Like Minded Ladies
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
ICF PCC (Professional Certified Coach) - International Coaching Federation certification, representing advanced coaching expertise and professional credibility
NBC-HWC (National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach) - Dual certification that creates unique positioning in the market, combining executive and wellness coaching expertise
Georgetown University Faculty - Institute for Transformational Leadership faculty position, providing academic credibility and thought leadership platform
WPO Chapter Chair - Women Presidents Organization Chapter Chair role, demonstrating leadership within executive women's networks
WBENC/WOB Certified - Women's Business Enterprise National Council and Women-Owned Business certifications, enabling federal contracting opportunities and corporate diversity partnerships
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Loving. Kind. Fierce.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: I don’t have time for this.
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: After years of infertility treatments that left me physically and emotionally depleted, I knew I needed to begin healing in a deeper way. In 2019, I started therapy and turned to EMDR to release trauma and find peace again. For the first time in years, I felt calm and hopeful.
Then the world shifted. With COVID came layoffs, but I took it as an opportunity to step fully into something I had always wanted—coaching full-time. I partnered with Georgetown University, grew my own practice, and built a business I was proud of in the midst of global uncertainty. I was thriving. But in November 2020, after a routine mammogram, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My left breast was very angry and had to go. What followed was a mastectomy, eight months of chemotherapy—made even harder by Hurricane Ida destroying our car and damaging our home—and in 2022, plus 32 rounds of radiation.
That journey taught me how to receive support, to stop putting myself last, and to find strength in vulnerability. I’m proud to say I kicked breast cancer’s ass. Out of that season came a podcast I co-created with fellow survivor Lia Augoustidis—Breast Cancer Unleashed: Where Every Topic is Appropriate. Beyond the podcast, what I truly gained was sisterhood, laughter, and love I never expected to find in the middle of pain.
Today, I am cancer-free and thriving. From infertility to survivorship, my story is one of resilience, rebirth, and joy. My hope is that anyone walking through cancer—or any life-altering challenge—finds healing, humor, and hope along the way.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: It can be a gift - if you let it.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Numb
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: No fight. I was in acceptance and humor. I felt what I needed to feel.
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: My husband stayed close and my sister in law took care of the cleaners for the first couple of months after mastectomy. LIFE SAVER! Small things taken off your plate during treatment can really mean a lot.
Mandy Boudwin
OCCUPATION: Partner Success Manager at Zearn, Inc.
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Cantor, St. Cecilia Choir, The Catholic Church of East St. James, 10 years (present)
Grade 2 Parish School of Religion Teacher, The Catholic Church of East St. James, 9 years
Cub Scout Pack 59 Committee Chair, Paulina, La, 10 years
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
President, Louisiana Association of Teachers of Mathematics (LATM), 2024-2026
Nominated for Voices of Hope through American Cancer Society, 2025
2022 Teacher of the Year, Science and Math Academy, St. James Parish Public Schools
You Night Model, New Orleans Class of 2021, Dreamgirls Runway Show
2018 Teacher of the Year, Lutcher High School, St. James Parish Public Schools
2017 Louisiana Awardee, Presidential Award of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
2002 Teacher of the Year, St. James Parish and Lutcher High School
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Compassionate. Thoughtful. Curious.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: Let your faith be bigger than your fear.
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: Following a routine mammogram in December 2019 with subsequent biopsies in January 2020, I was diagnosed with Stage I Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. While it was a frightening diagnosis, my doctors explained that it was found early and that there was a very good chance I would be cured. After a double mastectomy, chemo, immunotherapy, and reconstruction, I was “cancer-free.”
In December 2024, I felt some pain near the original cancer site. After a few days as the pain intensified, I contacted my doctor, and an ultrasound was ordered. From that ultrasound, I had to get a biopsy of an abnormal lymph node. During the biopsy, a second mass was found and biopsied. Both biopsies returned as positive for Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, again. Because a lymph node was involved this time, I underwent a CT scan. On January 3, 2025, I received the news that the cancer was Stage IV this time. Additional testing revealed that the cancer had metastasized to my vertebrae, left iliac crest, a rib, and my lungs. The hardest part of this journey so far has been telling my three sons, ages 23, 20, and 14 at the time, about the cancer and what it would mean for our family.
In February I began chemo. Following 6 cycles of chemo and immunotherapy, new scans showed a response to treatment, for which I am grateful. I continue immunotherapy infusions every three weeks along with oral medications to treat the hormone positive nature of the cancer.
I look forward to as many years as I can have with new therapies being developed over time. I plan to become a grandmother, watch my middle son graduate from LSU, be there for my youngest to complete high school and college, and hopefully many more special family events.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Initially I felt scared, both times I received my diagnoses. Then, I felt peace knowing that I had support from family and friends. I also have faith that God has me in the palm of his hand.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: Even on the hard days, remember that healing isn’t just about the body—it’s about the hope, love, and strength that surround you. You are never alone in this fight.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought, and continue to fight, for my husband and my kids. I want to experience as much life as I can with them. I fight because cancer does not define me.
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: After my first diagnosis, just before my double mastectomy, a very close friend collected quotes from friends and family in our community. She wrote each quote on a strip of paper and folded them into star shapes. A few days before my surgery, she presented them to me in a “Jar of Hope.” I opened a star each day and read the quote which brightened each day during my recovery.
Ann Donahue
OCCUPATION: Respiratory Therapist (Retired )
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Krewe de Pink
Algiers Irish Association
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
West Jefferson Hospital Employee of the Month
Algiers Irish Association Honoree
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Strong. Invincible. Caring.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: God doesn’t give you more than you can handle.
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: My journey started more than thirty years ago with Fibro Cystic Breast Disease and then yearly mammograms then every six months then every three months…finally a breast biopsy…Cancer!! At this time there was a new belief that a lumpectomy and chemotherapy vs radical Mastectomies was the best route to recovery. My surgeon said that if I was his wife, he would suggest a simple mastectomy and I replied, “I will double that!” I then started down the road of having a double mastectomy with breast reconstruction. After several surgeries and nipple tattooing, I was done and cancer free! I have never looked back. I have no regrets and best of all…NO MORE MAMMOGRAMS required!
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: Stay strong and never give up…we have but one life, so live it!
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Relieved!
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought for my family. We have all been through so much loss in our lives - the loss of a mother, sister, a brother, a cousin, a friend…and my child! I choose to fight and be happy, not with that loss but in spite of it!
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: Family and friends made meals for us and cleaned my house! I wish they would come back!!
Aimee Adatto Freeman
OCCUPATION: Louisiana State Representative for House District 98 (since 2020) and business owner and strategist for Aimee Freeman Consulting (for nearly 25 years).
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Bureau of Governmental Research
New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation
Women of the Storm
Tulane University A.B. Freeman School of Business Council.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
Legislator of the Year by STAR (Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response)
The United Way of Southeast Louisiana
Lift Louisiana.
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Diligent. Compassionate. Determined.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: Remember that this is your individual, unique journey. You'll be totally fine. Don't sweat this!
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: I was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer in June 2024, just seven and a half months after a normal mammogram. My treatments have included chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy. A huge part of my healing has been supported by integrative care with treatments such as acupuncture, yoga, hypnotherapy, cancer support groups, and tai chi.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: Everyone has their own journey. You quickly find yourself surrounded by a community of people who understand and support you in ways you never imagined. It can feel overwhelming, but you will be surrounded by love, courage, and hope.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Overwhelmed and frightened.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought for all the survivors who came before me and for those fighting alongside me. My children, my husband, my family, and my friends have motivated me in my most challenging days.
THE KINDEST THING SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: Kindness came in many forms for me. I was very grateful when friends offered to drive me to appointments, bring meals, walk my dog, or help with everyday errands. Before cancer, I did not realize how overwhelming those small daily tasks could become. I encourage others to welcome help from family and friends, as it can make a big difference.