Honoring our 2026 Sweet Survivors
Jill Fourcade
OCCUPATION: LCMC, EJ Neurology, Front Office
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Playground Ball - Tournaments, Fairs, Concessions
Archbishop Rummel High School - Football Meetings, Parent/Student Open House
YouNight 2020, Runway
Bosum Buddies, 2015 - Present
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
Wife
Mom - 2 Sons, Taylor 33, Chase 28
EJ Neurology - 19 years
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Positive. Loyal. Survivor.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY.: B Positive
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: October 2014, my annual mammogram. I felt there was a difference. I requested a bilateral breast ultrasound. It was there that we found 3 multi focal tumors. A biopsy proved that I had Stage 1 breast cancer…..after several doctor appointments and decision making……we decided to have a bilateral mastectomy with DIEP flap. As soon as they told me Breast Cancer…..I was ready to have the surgery immediately. A lot of emotions were flying, a lot of information…..And, we were in the middle of football season. My son, Chase played QB at Rummel, and my son, Taylor was a Wide Receiver Coach at Rummel. Soooo, it was decided to have surgery on December 31, 2014. Out with a Bang…….
My NEW Normal begins……
Onto recovery…….with Major support from my Family and Best of friends……We got through it. I can never say thank you enough for all they did…..helping me with dressings, garmets to be put on and taken off, meals for my family, taking me to doctor appointments, listening, love…….will never forget. My husband, Keith, my boys, my sister, Mona…….I forever thank y’all.
Chemo was than advised due to multi focal tumors. I had 4 rounds of Chemo. Again, We got through it day by day.
I managed to work, day to day activities, and mainly was able to cheer on my son and his team for Rummel baseball.
We are a Sports oriented Family and have forever enjoyed watching our Sons play and coach football! It is a Journey……as is this Breast Cancer Journey!!!
From Here on Out, my New Normal has forever changed me.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: Breast Cancer is different for every one of us. You and your Doctor will decide what’s best for YOU. With surgeries, our Scars remind us of the Battle we fought. We are Warriors! Warriors are Tough and Resilient. B Positive, B Tough, Positive Vibes, Pray!
Follow up with your doctor appointments
Join a support group, I have been a part of YouNight and Bosum Buddies. Certainly has helped. And, you will help others!
B Active, even if it’s walking to the corner and back
Encouragement is what we need, and encouraging others too
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: I felt totally numb and wanted to get it behind me as quick as possible. I felt very overwhelmed with all the doctor appointments and decision making. I felt like my head was in a fog. I guess as time passes a bit, I began to digest info better.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought Breast Cancer because, “Why would I not?” I have my husband, 2 sons, family, my life ahead of me. Not fighting, Not an Option
ONE OF THE KINDEST THINGS SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: Oldest, Dearest friend came in town to help take care of me postoperatively. Along with, my local friends and family who helped me! Forever Grateful.
Jasman Green
OCCUPATION: Front Desk
VOLUNTEER WORK:
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Resilient. Strong. Faithful.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY.: God’s not with me yet .
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: My breast cancer journey has been filled with many ups and downs. There were days when I didn’t know if I was coming or going. The physical, emotional, and mental challenges often left me feeling overwhelmed, but through it all, I kept moving forward. Even when I felt weak or uncertain, my faith gave me the strength to keep fighting one day at a time
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: My breast cancer journey has been filled with many ups and downs. There were moments when I didn’t know if I was coming or going. There were days when I felt scared, overwhelmed, and unsure of what the future would hold.
But through every appointment, every challenge, and every difficult moment, I held on to my faith. When I felt like I didn’t have the strength to keep going, God reminded me that I was never walking this journey alone.
To anyone who is currently fighting breast cancer, I want you to know that I see you. I know there are days when you may feel tired, afraid, or wonder how you will get through the next step. But please remember—one difficult day does not define your entire story.
Take it one day at a time. Give yourself grace. Allow yourself to feel, but never lose hope. You are stronger than you realize, even on the days when you don’t feel strong.
My journey has changed me. It has taught me to appreciate the little things, to cherish my loved ones, and to be grateful for every new day.
Today, I stand here not because the road was easy, but because I kept going. I am a survivor, but I am also a reminder that there is hope beyond the diagnosis.
Your scars are not a sign of what tried to defeat you—they are a reminder of what you overcame.
Keep fighting. Keep believing. Keep holding on.
You are resilient.
You are strong.
You are faithful.
And your story is still being written
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: My breast cancer journey began in a way I never expected. Two years after losing my mother to cancer, I found myself facing a reality I never thought I would have to face.
I kept noticing lumps and knew something didn’t feel right. After having those concerns, I spoke with my doctor, and she said, “Let’s check and see what is going on.” That moment started a journey that would change my life forever.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought for my daughter and my Uncle.
ONE OF THE KINDEST THINGS SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: The kindest thing someone has done for me is my uncle’s unwavering support throughout my journey. He has been there for me through every high and low, always offering love, encouragement, and a helping hand. I am truly thankful for him and blessed to have him by my side.
Jerry Parker
OCCUPATION: CEO And Founder of Socks That Rock for A Cancer Cause, Model, Designer, Singer-Songwriter, Retired
VOLUNTEER WORK:
You Night Empowering Events Organization
Top Ladies of Distinction, UNCF, Kids 4 Goods NOLA
Aviation Awareness Day
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
2026 - Cancer Crusaders Celebration of Life Luncheon and Reception Honoree
2026 - Krewe de Pink "Sweet Survivor" Event and Reception Honoree
2026 - Sneakers Ball for Cancer Survivors Honoree
2026 - CEO/Founder of: ALL ABOARD: Cancer Survivor Train Dance Line: November 7, 2026
2026 – New Orleans Fashion Week – Season 16; Jazz Museum – Improvisations Gala; Glam II Fashion Extravaganza; and Longue Vue Fall Fashion Shows – Founder & Designer, Debuted Scarfsleve’ Clothing Line Collection
2026 - Podcast - "In My Shell". Titled "Finding Strength Through Change"
2026 - Singer-songwriter: "Keep Smiling" (Released 2017) and "Oh Jesus You're The One" (Released 2026); Album (2026).
2022 - New Orleans Guinness World Records Record-Holder Award for most models in a runway (You Night Empowering Events Organization) fashion show; Ambassador, representing all cancers
Authored and Developed the Award-winning Keep Smiling Booklet for 3,000+ employees and helped implement Vet Tran Transportation Program for Veterans; 38 Years of Service at Department of Veterans Affairs New Orleans
Fredrick Parker's Janitorial Service 30 Years of Service. 2025 - Member of the Fashion Council of New Orleans
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Compassionate. Resilient. Inspirational.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY: My cancer journey didn't define me—it refined me. It strengthened my faith, deepened my compassion, and gave me a greater purpose: to encourage others to keep smiling, never give up, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity to inspire someone else. I believe that when God brings you through a storm, it's not just for your victory, but so your testimony can become someone else's hope.
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: My breast cancer journey began in 2012 when I was diagnosed with Stage II Invasive Ductal Carcinoma at the age of 48. Like many who hear those life-changing words, I experienced fear, uncertainty, and countless questions. Yet, even in my darkest moments, I chose to hold on to my faith, believing that God would carry me through every step of the journey.
My treatment included eight rounds of intravenous chemotherapy, 35 radiation treatments, two surgeries, and five years of oral chemotherapy. There were days when I felt physically exhausted and emotionally overwhelmed, but I refused to let cancer define my life. Instead, I embraced each challenge with courage, hope, and determination, trusting that every obstacle had a purpose.
Today, I am humbled and grateful to celebrate 14 years as a breast cancer survivor. My journey transformed my pain into purpose and my struggles into strength. It inspired me to found Socks That Rock for A Cancer Cause, a nonprofit initiative that has donated thousands of pairs of colorful socks to individuals receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatments. My goal has always been simple—to remind every patient that they are loved, supported, and never alone.
My experience has also inspired me to encourage others through public speaking, mentoring, modeling, music, and fashion design. Whether I am sharing my testimony or creating opportunities to uplift others, I strive to be a source of hope and encouragement.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: If you are facing breast cancer or any difficult challenge in life, I want you to know that you are stronger than you realize. There will be days when you feel afraid, discouraged, or overwhelmed, and those feelings are okay. Just don't allow them to steal your hope. Take your journey one day at a time, celebrate every small victory, and never be afraid to lean on your faith, your family, and those who genuinely care about you.
Throughout my own journey, I learned that our greatest strength often appears during our weakest moments. Every treatment, every prayer, and every obstacle taught me to trust God more deeply and appreciate each new day as a precious gift.
Remember that your diagnosis does not define your future. You are more than cancer. You are resilient, courageous, and capable of overcoming more than you ever imagined. Continue to smile, believe, and hold on to hope, even when the road seems difficult.
Most importantly, never give up. Your story is still being written, and your testimony has the power to encourage someone else. Keep trusting, keep fighting, and keep believing that brighter days are ahead. With faith, perseverance, and hope, you can overcome one day at a time.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: When I learned I had Stage II breast cancer, I was shocked, surprised, and overwhelmed. I had many questions about what the journey ahead would look like, how my life would change, and what to expect during the treatment process. I was not afraid, but I understood that I was facing something serious and unfamiliar. One of my biggest concerns was not knowing what the future held and wondering if the cancer could return after completing all of my treatments. Through it all, I leaned on my faith in God, continued to pray, and remained hopeful.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought because I had so much more life to live and so much more purpose to fulfill. I wanted to be here for my family, continue the work I was called to do, and experience all the beautiful things God still had planned for me. I also fought because I refused to allow cancer to define my story. Through every treatment and every challenge, my faith gave me strength to keep going. I knew I had to do my part, trust God, and believe that there was a greater purpose on the other side of this journey.
I chose to believe that this diagnosis was not the end of my story, but a new chapter that would strengthen my faith, purpose, and desire to encourage others.
Today, I am grateful that my journey allows me to inspire hope in others and remind them to never give up.
ONE OF THE KINDEST THINGS SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: One of the kindest things someone did for me was drive me to my chemotherapy and radiation treatments. During one of the most difficult times in my life, knowing that someone was willing to give their time, offer encouragement, and simply be there for me meant more than words can express. Their kindness lifted a tremendous burden from my shoulders and reminded me that I was not fighting this battle alone. Those rides were filled with conversation, prayer, laughter, and hope, giving me strength on days when I needed it most. That simple act of love taught me the true meaning of compassion and inspired me to support others on their own cancer journeys.
Kelly Rovetto
OCCUPATION: Founder & CEO of Re-Femme; Medical Device Representative specializing in breast reconstruction and oncology.
VOLUNTEER WORK:
Founder of Re-Femme, providing free resources, education, community and support to women navigating cancer
REACH1 initiative, providing financial support to women in active cancer treatment
Breast cancer patient advocacy and peer support
Cancer education and survivorship advocacy
Community outreach connecting women with trusted cancer resources, products and services
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS:
Founder & CEO of Re-Femme
2026 Krewe de Pink “Sweet Survivor” Honoree
Breast cancer survivor
Built Re-Femme into an international community reaching women in more than 30 countries
More than 25 years in the medical field, including over a decade specializing in breast reconstruction
Created a free Cancer-Care Registry designed specifically for women navigating cancer
Built partnerships with healthcare organizations, cancer-support organizations and brands serving women throughout treatment and survivorship
Turned my own cancer experience into a platform dedicated to making the journey easier for the women who come after me
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Resilient. Passionate. Fearless.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY.: Because beauty doesn’t end with cancer.
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: In February 2025, I was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer. I had spent more than a decade working in oncology and breast reconstruction, but nothing prepared me for what it felt like to suddenly become the patient.
My treatment included six rounds of TCHP chemotherapy followed by a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction. I was incredibly fortunate to achieve a complete pathologic response, meaning there was no remaining cancer found at surgery. I then continued HER2-targeted therapy and endocrine therapy.
Cancer changed nearly everything about my life, but one of the greatest surprises was discovering how much of the cancer journey happens outside the clinic. My doctors knew how to treat my cancer, but I still had hundreds of questions about how to live through it. What should I buy before chemotherapy? How could I save my hair? What would help my skin? What would I need after surgery? What happens to intimacy, hormones, confidence, femininity and the person you were before someone told you that you had cancer?
I found myself piecing together answers from other women who had already lived it.
That experience became Re-Femme.
I created Re-Femme to build what I desperately wished existed when I was diagnosed: one trusted place where women could find resources, education, products, services and, most importantly, one another.
Cancer took a lot from me, but it also gave me an extraordinary sense of purpose. If what I learned walking through cancer can make the road even slightly easier for the woman walking behind me, then something beautiful came from something incredibly difficult.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: You do not have to figure out your entire cancer journey the day you are diagnosed.
In the beginning, everything can feel enormous. There are appointments, decisions, unfamiliar words, fears about your body and your future, and a million questions you never imagined you would have to ask.
Take it one step at a time.
There will be days when you feel incredibly strong and days when you don’t feel strong at all. Both are okay. Strength isn’t never being scared. Sometimes strength is simply getting up, showing up for the next appointment and allowing other people to carry you when you can’t carry yourself.
Find your people. Ask questions. Accept help. Advocate for yourself. And reach for the women who have walked this road before you. Some of the greatest comfort I found came from another woman saying, “I understand. I’ve been there.”
Most importantly, remember that you are still you.
Cancer may change your body, your priorities and even the direction of your life, but it does not get to take away everything that makes you a woman.
There is life during cancer, and there is so much life after it.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Terrified. Even after spending years working around breast cancer, hearing the words directed at me was completely different. I immediately thought about my children and whether I would be here to watch them grow up. Everything else in my life suddenly became very small. I remember realizing that I would have given anything to have my ordinary problems back.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I wanted to be here for their lives—the ordinary days as much as the extraordinary ones. But somewhere along the way, I also began fighting for the woman who would be diagnosed after me. I couldn’t change the fact that I got cancer, but I could decide what I was going to do with the experience. Re-Femme became part of that fight.
ONE OF THE KINDEST THINGS SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: Some of the greatest kindness came from women who had already walked this road and were willing to reach back for me. They answered the questions that felt too small to ask my doctors, told me what they wished they had known, reassured me when I was terrified and reminded me that there was life on the other side of treatment. Those women became part of the inspiration for Re-Femme. I wanted to take that feeling—one woman reaching back for another—and make sure no woman ever had to navigate cancer feeling completely alone.
Aaiyanna Johnson
OCCUPATION: Assistant manager at Amazon
VOLUNTEER WORK: At the present moment, I give out food to those in need. There is no system whenever I have much I give.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/AWARDS: I’m a published author of two books and an article.
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU: Peaceful. Artistic. Funny.
PHRASE/QUOTE THAT HAD SIGNIFICANT MEANING DURING YOUR JOURNEY.: “You must have strength.”
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BREAST CANCER JOURNEY: I found my tumor through self-examination on Valentine's Day 2026. Because I was only 26 years old I was told it was probably nothing. I then had my biopsy which I completely fainted for. Days later I’m told what was probably nothing was actually Stage 3 breast cancer. In March a week and a half after my birthday I had my first major surgery, a lumpectomy. A month after that my chemo port was surgically placed. I’ve since completed chemo and am awaiting radiation treatment.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHERS: It feels hard and impossible. But that’s because you’re thinking of everything all at once. It becomes more manageable when you take it one day at a time, and find weird hobbies to occupy your mind.
HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS?: Deep down I knew I had breast cancer. I remember getting a notification that my biopsy results were in and I would go back and forth between the American Cancer Society’s page for breast cancer results and the biopsy file confirming what I knew; but I wanted to hear it from the doctor. When they told me I felt a massive pit form in my gut and so much confusion.
WHY DID YOU FIGHT?: I fought because I'm the big sister to many siblings, and they mean so much to me. My family means a lot to me and they would not allow me to not fight. But most of all I fought for myself. This was a much needed journey between God and myself he knew my heart and saw me through.
ONE OF THE KINDEST THINGS SOMEONE DID FOR YOU: I cannot think of one instance, but throughout my diagnosis my family, coworkers, and most of all strangers have been so kind. From compliments, to gifts, even hugs it’s all so beautiful and reminds me that life is precious and that when we receive love we double it and pass it on.