The Voice of Southwest Louisiana October 2017 Issue

October 2017 

Vol 5 No 3 

Q&A Real People 

Real Lives with 

Cynthia Lemelle, 

Surviving - Thriving 

SWLA 

Health, 

Wealth & 

Wellness 

Pregnancy... What You 

Don’t Expect When 

You’re Expecting… 

Emily Ashworth, RN, BSN 

Adventures 

of the Lake 

The WORLD'S 

STRONGEST WOMEN 

~Single Mothers~ 

"The Talk" 

Carra Sergeant, LPC 

SWLA 

BOOK 

REVIEW 

“Pretty Sick: The 

Beauty Guide for 

Women with Cancer” 

By Caitlin M. Kiernan 

The Mines 

Theatre 

Presents: 

Murder At 

Moon Mansion 

Zydeco Naturals 

All Natural Blends of Cultural Flavors 

from SWLA for Hair & Skincare

Program 

& Services 

Available 

Include: 

• Managerial & Technical Assistance 

• DiSC Workplace /Leaders Programs 

• Market Analysis /Planning Workplace Training Solutions 

• Business Coaching Program 

• Pre-Incubation Program 

2 

October 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 5 • Number 3

editor’s 

By Brenda Hill 

Labor of love... 

Works of faith... 

Persevering hope... 

Seated from L-R: Jasmine Moore, Brenda Hill, Leslie 

Thomas, Vicky Parker and Kimberly Guillory. 

I 

was invited by Vicky Parker, 

Founder/CEO of Rising Above, 

a nonprofit organization that 

provides information with supportive 

services for single mothers, to come 

and lunch and learn about their issues. 

I was introduced to Kimberly Guillory, 

Founder/CEO of Silent Footprints, 

a nonprofit organization that offers 

support to mothers who suffered 

pregnancy loss (ectopic, miscarriage) or 

the loss of a child. 

These single mothers expressed 

concern about several issues such as, 

end of natural life, lack of insurance 

benefits for still borns, talking around 

loss, rising cost of living, affordable 

housing, the great need for male 

mentoring, and their deepest feelings 

of empathy for mothers and their 

families affected by areawide shootings 

and loss of life, such as the recent 

shooting death of a 10 year old and the 

17 year old who remains hospitalized. 

Leslie Thomas joined us and spoke 

about the issues that comes with 

working two jobs that pulls you away 

from family and the need for more 

education including financial and 

budgeting literacy. 

Logan's Roadhouse was a welcoming 

atmosphere to have such an inspiring 

moment with these women of 

compassion. 

If you'd like to learn more about the 

labor of love in these organizations, 

volunteer, donate or assist, contact 

Vicky Parker--337.764.8348 or Kimberly 

Guillory--337.438.6213. 

There is no imprint too small that it 

cannot leave an imprint on this world. 

(Silent Footprints' Motto) 

Volume 5 • Number 3 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM October 2017 3

October 2017 

The Voice's Choice will spotlight groups, 

individuals or topics that spread love, joy 

and peace throughout SWLA. 

3 EDITOR'S PEN 

LABOR OF LOVE...WORKS OF FAITH... 

PERSERVERING HOPE... 

5 SWLA NEWS 

LOUISIANANS FOR PRISON ALTERNATIVES 

6 SWLA NEWS 

I-10 BRIDGE 

8 PREGNANCY 

WHAT YOU DON’T EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE 

EXPECTING… 

9 INTRODUCING ZYDECO 

NATURALS 

HAIR AND SKINCARE PRODUCTS 

10 THE MINES THEATRE 

PRESENTS: 

MURDER AT MOON MANSION 

11 KIWANIS 

30TH ANNUAL COATS FOR KIDS SPOOKTACULAR 

12 SWLA FEATURE STORY 

WHAT IS THE APPROPRIATE TIME FOR A MOTHER 

TO HAVE "THE TALK" WITH HER YOUNG DAUGHTER 

ABOUT HER ISSUES? 

Cover Page Photo of Michelle and her 

daughter by VINH PHOTOGRAPHY 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Brenda Hill 

brenda@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

GENERAL MANAGER | Tracy Clark 

tracy@thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

ART DIRECTOR | Vinh Alexander 

tvswlart@gmail.com 

SALES | Lori Ross 

loriross3422@gmail.com 

14 S.O.A.R. 

STEPPING OUT AND REGAINING 

15 SWLA FALL FASHION 

ACT OUT YOUR FALL FASHION LOOK! 

16 REFLECTIVE LIGHT 

BEYOND ARTIFICIAL RESUSCITATION 

18 MY SENIOR MOMENT 2.0 

FAMILY SUPPORT 

20 BUMP, SET, SPIKE! 

MCNEESE VOLLEYBALL FOCUSES ON 

CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT 

22 SWLA BOOK REVIEW 

“PRETTY SICK: THE BEAUTY GUIDE FOR WOMEN 

WITH CANCER” BY CAITLIN M. KIERNAN 

24 THE WORLD'S STRONGEST 

WOMEN 

SINGLE MOTHERS 

26 Q&A WITH CYNTHIA 

LEMELLE, SENIOR CIRCLE 

MEMBER 

REAL PEOPLE REAL LIVES 

www.thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

COPY EDITORS 

Jason Clark, Cecely Clark, 

Ann Champagne 

CONSULTANTS 

Gene R. Hill, Sr., Reginald Clark 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Tori Hebert • Ronald J. Blanchard 

Joyce R. Kebodeaux • Ian Thibodeaux 

Emily Ashworth, RN, BSN 

Carra Sergeant, LPC 

Terri Schlichenmeyer 

Martha M. Marcelle Gray 

My greatest joy is knowing that Jesus 

loves me…even me!!! 

Mrs. Gray, married to Louis Gray, is 

a native of White Castle, Louisiana, 

the youngest of nine children, 

mother, grandmother, public 

speaker, member of boards and 

active member of New Sunlight 

Baptist Church. She was an Honor 

Graduate of Iberville High School 

in Plaquemine, La., and a Magna 

Cum Laude Graduate of Southern 

University. To her credits are many 

teaching and counseling experiences 

such as Washington High School, 

Westlake High School, (One of six 

teachers to integrate the school 

system), Reynaud Middle School, 

Counselor for Pre-Engineering Classes 

at McNeese State University, etc. She 

retired with 30 years in the school 

system and re-entered the workforce 

and at age 80 worked a total of 57 

years. Presently at age 84, she still 

enjoys God’s Word and cares for her 

husband, family and flowers. 

Published and distributed by 

TEAM PUBLICATIONS LLC. 

4310 Ryan St. Ste. 135 

Lake Charles, LA. 70605 

In the McNeese SEED Center 

337.474.2210 

DISCLOSURE: All materials contained in the publication are copyrighted 

and may not be reproduced or reprinted in part or its entirety without 

the expressed written permission of The Voice of SWLA. The views expressed in 

articles of The Voice of SWLA are not necessarily the views of the ownership or 

sponsors in this publication. The Voice of SWLA assumes no liability for errors 

or omissions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content. 

4 October 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 5 • Number 3

SWLA news 

Louisianans for 

Prison Alternatives 

By Brenda Hill 

Louisianans for Prison 

Alternatives (LPA) hosted a 

meeting Monday, October 

2, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. in the 

Central Library on Ernest 

Street in Lake Charles. 

“LPA is a diverse statewide coalition 

committed to reducing Louisiana’s 

imprisonment rate, the highest in the 

world. The coalition comprises formerly 

incarcerated individuals, civil rights 

attorneys, criminal justice stakeholders, 

health experts, faith communities, 

business leaders, elected officials, 

academics, and concerned citizens from 

every corner of Louisiana,” according to 

John Burkhart. 

John Burkhart is the Criminal Justice 

Reform Fellow and Director of Louisiana 

Campaign for Equal Justice with 

Southern Poverty Law Center. He 

facilitated the session and Martha Carol, 

Community Advocate and Adrian Rocha, 

Outreach Paralegal, assisted him. 

“During the 2017 Louisiana legislative 

session, LPA helped pass ten bills 

resulting from the Justice Reinvestment 

Task Force, a bipartisan body with 

representatives from stakeholders 

in the criminal justice system. The 

resulting legislation is projected to lower 

Louisiana’s incarceration rate by 10% and 

save the state $262 million over the next 

decade. Like other states to undertake 

justice reinvestment, this legislation is 

projected to lower Louisiana’s crime rate 

as well,” says Burkhart. 

He adds,”During this fall, LPA will tour 

the state to hear from communities and 

experts about the policies to push in the 

upcoming legislative session, and then 

work with representatives and senators 

to draft legislation and devise a strategy 

to ensure its passage in 2018.” 

“Though the work of the Justice 

Reinvestment Task Force is 

complete, Louisiana has more 

work to do and LPA needs your 

help to bring about a more just 

and safe Louisiana, says Burkhart.” 

For more information about LPA and 

to join their effort, visit www.splcenter. 

org and https://www.facebook.com/ 

louisianansforprisonalternatives/. We 

hope you will join our effort to bring 

about a more just and safe Louisiana. 

Visit www.thevoiceofsouthwestla.com 

and read John Burkhart’s full details. 

Several concerned citizens from our local area attended Monday evening's session. 


SWLA news 

Heavy Traffic Prone Areas – 

Location Direction Problem Area(s) Day(s) Time(s) 

I-10 East 

MM24 to MM30 

City Service (Exit 23) to Exit 29 to Lakeshore. 

Monday – Friday 5:00PM – 7:00PM 

Includes all entrances/on-ramps into specified area 

I-210 East 

MM0 to MM3 

MM0 of I-210 to Nelson Rd (Exit 3). 

Includes all entrances/on-ramps into specified area 

Monday – Friday 5:00PM – 7:00PM 

https://www.google.com/maps/@30.2073022,-93.2869333,13.21z/data=!5m1!1e1?hl=en 

Location Direction Problem Area(s) Day(s) Time(s) 

Houston River Rd 

(Westlake) 

Both 

Directions 

Anthony Ferry Rd to Guillory St Monday – Friday 5:30AM – 7:30AM 

https://www.google.com/maps/@30.2625796,-93.2865747,14.21z/data=!5m1!1e1?hl=en 

6 October 2017 WWW.THEVOICEOFSOUTHWESTLA.COM Volume 5 • Number 3

Editor's Note: This is the tenth in a series of stories that 

will focus on the Interstate 10 Bridge replacement project. 

I-10 

Bridge 

Calcasieu Parish 

Heavy Traffic Prone Areas Report 

If you have questions or concerns 

regarding this report, please contact 

Cade McLemore at jmclemore@cppj.net 

or call (337) 721-3800 

Industrial Traffic Control Points – 

Industries Location Days of the Week Times 

Axiall Various locations on Pete Menena Rd Monday-Sunday 7:00am-5:00pm 

Sasol Old Spanish Trail/Rigmaiden Ave Monday-Friday 5:00am-9:00am 

Sasol Old Spanish Trail/Rigmaiden Ave Monday-Friday 4:00pm-8:00pm 

Sasol Old Spanish Trail/VCM Plant Rd Monday-Friday 5:00am-9:00am 

Sasol Old Spanish Trail/VCM Plant Rd Monday-Friday 4:00pm-8:00pm 

Sasol Houston River Rd/Margaret St Monday-Friday 5:00am-9:00am 

Sasol Houston River Rd/Margaret St Monday-Friday 4:00pm-8:00pm 

Sasol Houston River Rd/John Stine Rd Monday-Friday 5:00am-9:00am 

RESOURCES: 

Traffic Maps: 

- Google Maps - https://www.google.com/maps/@30.237634,-93.237093,11z/data=!5m1!1e1 

- Waze - https://www.waze.com 

Emergency Notification: 

- Calcashout - http://www.calcashout.com/ 

- Nixle - https://local.nixle.com/register/ 

- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CalcasieuEmergencyNotification/ 

- Twitter - https://twitter.com/EmrgNoticeCPPJ 

Louisiana DOTD Updates: 

- MyDOTD - http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/administration/announcements/SignUp.aspx 

- 511 - http://hb.511la.org 

Sasol Construction/Heavy Haul Route Updates: 

- Sasol TEXT - http://www.sasolnorthamerica.com/sasoltext 

- Current Schedule - http://www.sasolnorthamerica.com/HHR 

Weather Updates: 

- National Weather Service - http://www.srh.noaa.gov/lch/ 

- Active Tropical Weather Outlook - http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ 

- 5 Day Outlook - http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/gtwo.php?basin=atlc&fdays=5 


SWLA health, wealth & wellness Inform, Educate, Empower 

Pregnancy 

By Emily Ashworth, RN, BSN 

What You Don’t Expect 

When You’re Expecting… 

When pregnant with my daughter 

thirteen years ago, I cared for 

myself in a fashion that my mother 

and grandmother were not accustomed 

to. I worked 12- and 16-hour shifts in the 

ICU, moving large objects around with no 

consideration for the pregnant condition. I 

was expecting my first child and I was nervous 

and excited. But I was also frustrated because 

the elderly women in my family would not stop 

telling me what I shouldn’t do! 

Then, it happened! I went to 

the doctor, and he placed me on 

bedrest in the fifth month of my first 

pregnancy. 

Upset and irritated, I grudgingly did as the 

doctor instructed. My grandmother told me, 

“you better rest your nerves and listen to the 

doctor. When you have a baby, you have one 

foot in the grave and one foot out.” I could not 

understand that last sentence. One foot in 

the grave…as I laid in the bed and sat on the 

sofa with my feet elevated for what felt like 

an eternity, I did a lot of reading, thinking and 

listening. 

Once, as I visited my mother’s house to stay 

for the day, I heard of a young lady who died 

shortly after giving birth. I shivered on the 

inside and said a prayer for her family and 

then, for myself. I was not far from delivery, 

and I could not imagine not being there to 

see my new baby and watch her grow up. My 

grandmother’s words came back to me and 

fear set in. This wasn’t in the happy book I was 

reading. People talk about how life changing 

having a child is, but they do not talk about 

how a woman teeters on the edge of death 

with the birth of a child. Why? Why does this 

happen? How common is this? Let’s explore… 

8 

When a woman becomes 

pregnant, implantation of 

the new life has taken place 

in the wall of the uterus. 

(womenshealth.gov) Blood 

flow increases are essential 

for the growth and 

development of the new 

baby. When delivery of 

the child occurs, and the 

placenta (powerhouse 

that nurtures the 

baby’s growth in the 

mother’s womb) 

vessels are left open, 

this contributes to 

the bleeding after 

the birth of a child 

along with other 

occurrences or 

procedures that 

take place. 

In March 2015, 

the World Health 

Organization started 

the Zero Maternal 

Death from Hemorrhage 

initiative. Increasing 

access to health care and 

promoting effective practice 

among healthcare providers 

are a few ways to decrease 

these numbers. According to the 

Center’s for Disease Control and 

Prevention (CDC), approximately 

700 women lives are lost each year 

due to pregnancy or complications 

during or after delivery. State and 

federal agencies have worked and 

are working in collaboration to help 

reduce these numbers and educate 

providers and new mothers to help 

prevent pregnancy-related deaths. 

Prayer and awareness of YOUR body is 

of utmost importance. Understanding 

that pregnancy can be a fragile time in the 

journey of becoming a mother and care 

for your body is essential. The food that 

you eat is not only your fuel but during 

this time of preparation for delivery, it 

strengthens your body as your baby 

grows. Have faith and take a daily walk. 

Talk to your doctor about your cares and 

concerns, and listen to their instructions. 

Eat well. (plenty of fruits, vegetables, and 

stay hydrated with plenty of water). Enjoy 

each blessed day that you are part of 

creation to becoming a MOM. 

https://www.womenshealth.gov/ 

pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/ 

stages-pregnancy 

https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/ 

maternalinfanthealth/pregnancyrelatedmortality.htm 

http://www.who.int/life-course/news/ 

regional-news/reduce-maternal-deathsfrom-hemorrhage/en/ 


Introducing 

NATURALS 

Mckenzie and Temesha Nash, founders 

of Zydeco Naturals, have deep roots in 

Louisiana. Mckenzie, born and raised in 

Lake Charles, LA earned his Management degree 

at Grambling State University and Temesha, born 

and raised in New Orleans, LA, completed her 

Doctorate of Pharmacy degree at Xavier University 

of Louisiana. Experiencing the culture and spirit 

of the regions throughout their lives, a deep love of 

Louisiana was formed. Blending the cultural flavor 

of this life into the dream for their new company and 

product line, Zydeco Naturals was born in 2017. 

Speaking with various friends, family, patients and 

others in her community, Temesha recognized the 

necessity of addressing on-going issues of hair and 

skin care. To meet the ever-growing need and demand 

from her community to have 100% natural beauty 

products, she began to develop specially formulated 

product lines to address the needs of women, men 

and children alike. The request for safer product 

lines, ZERO chemical additives and specialty goods 

consisting of all natural ingredients and botanicals 

to address a variety of daily needs inspired her to 

develop the current line of Zydeco Naturals’ product 

offerings. Using her complex knowledge in botanicals 

and compounding, Zydeco Naturals introduced: I’ll Be 

Right Back Shampoo & Conditioner for Women, I’ll Be 

Right Back Shampoo & Conditioner for Men, Zingers 

Lice Treatment & Prevention Shampoo & Conditioner 

and Krazy Skin Cream in the summer of 2017. 

We invite you to experience the uniquely formulated 

blends of Zydeco Naturals to awaken and renew your 

hair and skin today. 

Visit us online at: 

http://www.ZydecoNaturals.com 

or call us at 972.347.3786. 

God is stronger than ANY circumstance. “I am the LORD, the God of all 

mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” ~Jeremiah 32:27 


SWLA nonprofit 

The Mines Theatre Presents: 

Murder At Moon Mansion 

The Moon Daily News - Classifieds September 5, 2017 

The mansion was decorated and festivities were in full swing 

on the evening of Dec 2,1965, for Minnie Moon’s ‘Sweet 

16’ birthday celebration. As the evening progressed, 

clouds rolled in and the skies darkened, illuminated by streaks of 

lightning, perhaps a forewarning of the tragedy that was to strike! 

It is said that on nights like this, doom befell the mansion and its 

inhabitants. Many tales have been passed down regarding the 

strange occurrences that took place at Moon Mansion over the 

years, and now high above the town, Moon Mansion stands alone, 

foreboding - a shell of its former self. Abandoned, ravaged by fire 

and left to slowly descend back into the earth from which it came, 

the mansion seems to be looking down upon the town. 

Location: The Mines Theatre - 121 E Napoleon St 

Sulphur, LA 70663 

Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities: Must be 21 or older to 

attend 

Tickets may be purchased @ theminestheatre.com, by calling the 

theatre @ 337.215.1602 or at the Brimstone Museum Office – 900 

S Huntington St, Sulphur 

For more information, please contact The Mines at 337.215.1602 or the.mines@yahoo.com 

MURDER AT MOON MANSION created by C Guidry & R Shay. 

Supported by a SWLA Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism 

Marketing Grant from the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau 

as administered by the Arts Council of SWLA. 

Hi, My name is Randy Lewis and I’m an Investigative Reporter 

for The Moon Daily News. Yes, that’s right, the paper started by 

none other than Fredrick Moon, many moons ago……pardon the 

pun! I have recently uncovered some information on the strange 

disappearance of Minnie Moon and have decided to search the 

mansion to determine what actually happened that fateful night. 

If you are interested in joining my team, please contact me at 

337.215.1602 for more information. 

There’s a mystery at Moon Mansion and it’s up to the audience 

to solve it!!! Strange occurrences have been reported for 

years, from ghost sightings to unexplained lights, and now an 

investigation has been planned to try and solve the murder of 

Minnie Moon. 

Provided with clues – it’s up to you – to avenge Minnie’s untimely 

death! 

Investigative Kits, including a layout of the mansion, Moon family 

tree and a brief family history, will be provided to all participants. 

Participants will move throughout the mansion gathering clues to 

solve the crime and will enjoy a catered meal featuring an entrée 

of beef stroganoff, immediately following the investigation. 

Do you think you have what it takes to solve the mystery??? 

Performances: 

Saturday, October 14, 2017 @ 6:30pm – proceeds benefit 

COLORS FOR A CAUSE 

Saturday, October 28, 2017 @ 6:30pm – proceeds benefit THE 

MISSING PIECE 

10 

Visit www.thevoiceofsouthwestla.com for more details. 


The Kiwanis Club 

of Lake Charles is 

kicking off its 30th 

Annual Coats for Kids and 

once again we are being 

helped by Lake Charles's 

own craft brewery, Crying 

Eagle. The “Coats for Kids 

Spooktacular” will be held 

on Saturday October 28 

from 5-10 pm at the brewery. 

Bring a coat of any size and get a free 

Crying Eagle beer glass and a free raffle 

ticket for great prizes. Then stick around 

for the party. Specialty beers along with 

gumbo and fixings will be available for 

purchase. Plus you can enjoy great music, 

participate in auctions, tour the brewery, 

and meet with friends. Please join us in 

doing good while having fun. 

KIWANIS 

Coats For Kids 

SPOOKTACULAR 

For 29 years, the Kiwanis Club has 

placed boxes for coats collection in 

schools. Donated coats are cleaned by 

our partner AAA Drive-in Cleaners and 

distributed to nine local agencies. Each 

year about 1000 coats are delivered to 

Potters House, Harbor House, The Lord’s 

Place, Boys Village, Oasis Women’s Shelter, 

Solomon’s Porch, Abraham’s Tent, Care 

Help of Sulphur, DeWanna's Community 

Closet, and CPSB Title 10-Assistance to 

Homeless Children. 

So please help keep our area residents 

warm and dry. There is never a shortage of 

need for coats in winter. 

The Crying Eagle Brewing Company 

is located at 1165 E. McNeese St., Lake 

Charles, LA. We continue to seek sponsors 

for our Coats for Kids campaign. For more 

info, contact Steve Ek at 337.474.1622. 


SWLA feature story 

What is the appropriate time for a 

mother to have "THE TALK" with her 

young daughter about her issues? 

“THE TALK” 

By Carra Sergeant, 

Licensed Professional Counselor 

A 

young 

girl today 

have many 

opportunities to 

learn a lot about 

the development of 

her body and how 

her mind works 

by doing a simple 

topic search on the 

internet, or chatting 

on various social 

media sites. 

EVERYTHING, the good, the 

bad and the not so good, is 

accessible to our young girls at 

the click of a button. 

Because of the easy access, this 

generation has an almost insatiable 

thirst for information and they get 

“thirsty” at a very young age. For moms, 

grandmoms, aunts, teachers, and those 

who are reading this article: How old is 

a woman when issues start? What is the 

appropriate time for a mother to have 

“THE TALK” with her young daughter 

about her issues? What will you say to 

her when that time arrives? 

Surely you will tell her about 

the changes her body will 

undergo as she approaches 

and moves through puberty. 

You will explain to her that her body 

will develop curves and breasts. You 

will reassure her that the physical 

awkwardness she is suddenly 

experiencing will eventually grow 

into smoothness and grace. When you 

explain the menstrual cycle to her, you 

will be sure that she understands the 

incredible power she now wields. She 

will hear from you that with the onset 

of her period, she is now capable of 

becoming pregnant, so it is important 

that she waits until marriage before 

she shares her body with a man. She 

will most certainly have read some 

misinformation on the internet and it 

will be your job to empower her with 

accurate facts and truths regarding her 

journey into adulthood. 

I am guessing that the above 

is a fairly accurate description 

of how most mothers, and 

others, envision “THE TALK.” 

If so, those daughters are truly blessed 

to have such open and welcoming 

moms. I would like, however, to 

recommend an addition to the above 

pre-rehearsed script... 

12 


Mood Swings: The onset 

of menses comes with a surge 

of hormonal activity that contributes to 

sudden changes in mood and affect. In an instant, 

an adolescent girl can go from happy and outgoing to 

sullen and tearful. Often described as, “I feel like I am going 

crazy.” Your daughter needs for you to be her safety net during 

this scary and turbulent period. Teach her to feel safe with her 

feelings and help reassure her that this is all a normal part 

of growing up. Remind her that you went through the 

same thing and let her know that unlimited hugs are 

available to her (upon request, of course, because 

most teens do not want their parents to 

even touch them). 

...You need to tell your 

daughters about the 

changes that will take 

place inside their heads 

and inside their hearts 

during this journey: 

Sleep changes: Teen girls 

today are under intense pressure 

to fit society’s image of perfection. Being 

nervous and fearful at the prospect of being 

“different” creates a level of stress that makes sleep 

elusive for some tweens and teens. Encourage your 

daughters to talk about their fears. Help them to 

develop their own identity and allow them to 

express their individuality freely. ASK “How are 

you today?” and sincerely LISTEN to their 

response. 

Sexual awakening: 

At the onset of puberty, you will 

probably notice that your daughter goes from 

talking about “those yucky boys” to “wow, that boy is 

cute”. Mom, DO NOT FREAK OUT. Yes, this is an uncomfortable 

moment for you but remember, “THE TALK” is not about you 

– it is about her. Take a deep breath and allow her to talk about 

her newly discovered interest in boys. Keep the tone light and 

conversational. It is even okay to admit to your daughter that 

you have a level of discomfort with this topic, because 

that admission will send the message that it is 

healthy to talk about uncomfortable 

topics. 

Puberty is a turbulent and 

fearful time for our daughters. 

As mothers, we need to 

communicate a sincere 

interest in our daughter’s 

feelings in order to gain and 

maintain their trust. 

Without that trust, it will be difficult 

for you to get your daughters to ask 

for and accept your guidance. Be 

the mom who is open to having 

those tough discussions. Be the 

mom that you want your daughter 

to grow up to be. Being the “cool 

mom” does not mean that you will 

always agree; it simply means you 

will always listen. 

For more information on talking 

to your daughter about puberty, 

check out the following resources: 

https://www.mentalhelp.net/ 

articles/how-do-i-talk-with-mychild-about-puberty/ 

https://www.menstrupedia.com/ 

articles/puberty/emotionalchanges 

https://always.com/en-us/tips-andadvice/the-talk/puberty-questionsyour-daughter-might-ask 

With your unwavering support, 

your daughter can make it through 

puberty without excess emotional 

baggage. Let her know daily: 

“You are altogether beautiful my 

darling…beautiful in every way.” 

Song of Solomon 4:7. 

Carra Sergeant 

Licensed Professional Counselor 

3519 Patrick Street; Suite 109, Lake Charles, LA 

For a private appointment, please call 337-317-7651 


SWLA not-for-profit 

Gerald Victor, P.T. Tech 

S.O.A.R. 

Stepping Out And Regaining 

Sit Chair 

Monday & 

Exercise 

Wednesday 

10:00am -11:00am 

Mission: Chair exercises that 

improves body, mind and spirit. 

Objective: A chair exercise program 

that gets you moving, stretching, air 

aerobics, strength training and range 

of motion. 

Who may benefit from S.O.A.R.? 

• Seniors with limited 

mobility and flexibility with 

movement in all planes of 

motion. 

• Those recovering from injury 

or illness. 

• Recommended for those with 

hip or knee replacements. 

Strength 

Endurance 

Inspiration 

Instructor:: 

Gerald Victor, Physical 

Therapy Technician 

Locations:: 

University Park Ward 3 

1001 Central Parkway 

L. C. LA. 70605 

Ph: 337.475.2431 

FAX: 337.602.6215 

Multiple Complex Center 

1221 Sampson 

Westlake, LA. 70669 

Ph:(337.436.1124 

Fax:337.433.8951 

Manager Leslie DeVille. 

Gerald Victor was born and reared in Lake 

Charles, Louisiana. He graduated from 

Sharpstown High School in Houston, Texas 

in 1985. He received a Physical Therapy 

Technician certificate and a Nursing Assistant 

license from Guthrie Job Corps in 1986. He 

has used his training to serve others for over 

25 years. 

He was diagnosed with several disabilities 

such as Avascular Necrosis, loss of blood to 

the bones, Neuropathy and Tarsal Tunnel 

syndrome affecting his feet. 

After his diagnosis, he considered how to be 

productive and give back to his community, 

which is very important to him. 

Gerald founded Stepping Out and Regaining 

(SOAR), a chair exercise program for Seniors 

that now meets M-F in Lake Charles and 

Westlake. Gerald volunteers as instructor, 

and includes an exercise program for children 

at his church during summer camp at Zion 

Tabernacle Baptist Church. He extends these 

exercise programs to various other groups 

like Southwest Louisiana Aids Council (SLAC). 

Participants find his trainings inspirational, 

highly enjoyable and very effective. 

Gerald’s message to all is, “There are no 

excuses for inactivity, and there is always a 

way to help others.” 

Gerald began an underwear and sock drive, 

this past summer, to benefit homeless men 

and women in our area. When he pitched 

the idea to the Seniors in his classes their 

responses were, “When do we start?” His 

motto for the fundraiser was: Have You Ever 

Felt Invisible Before? “There are many more 

homeless citizens in this community than 

most people may realize,” says Gerald. 

Many members cared, donated, allowed their 

facility to be contribution sites, and helped to 

get the word out by passing out flyers. 

Gerald sends a “BIG” shout out to Zion 

Tabernacle Baptist Church, University 

Recreational Center (chair exercise class), 

Westlake Multi-Purpose Center, SLAC, St. Jude 

Medical Group, Dr. Agendia, and every person 

that participated. 

14 


SWLA fall fashion 

Act Out Your Fall 

Fashion Look! 

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Photographer • Shaunteal Prejean- Makeup • Alyssa Burris- Hair • 

Julie Branden- Wardrobe Stylist • Heath McNeese- Buckle Store 

Manager • Julie Branden of Vivid Image Consulting 


Reflective Light INSPIRED REVELATIONS FROM A MALE PERSPECTIVE 

Beyond Artificial Resuscitation 

By Ronald J. Blanchard 

Considering the fight, the 

plight of one’s mother, 

sister, daughter, possibly 

wife, a man filled with sympathy 

may not have the empathy to ever 

understand the dreaded disease 

that leaves a woman spiritually 

and psychologically as well as 

physically breathless. Specifically, 

breast cancer has been the usual 

suspect that causes unspeakable 

pain and heartache, carrying a 

death sentence for thousands of 

women throughout the world. 

However, there is hope as man 

searches for the cure, giving a 

lady a reason to cope, a man can 

choose to understand, lifting her 

head, a deliberate, premeditated 

decision to stand by her side. 

A man that is a man is defined through 

actions and not mere words. With 

the threat of breast cancer caring the 

potential of corruption and destruction 

of valued relationships, a man must 

remember that the essence of a woman 

supersedes her superficial physical 

attributes. 

A real man cherishes the invisible 

qualities of her inner beauty and special 

personality. Breast cancer may be the 

source of distraction, as one may allow 

changes in a woman’s appearance to 

determine whether or not one should 

stay. It’s critical that a man reflects upon 

the substance of their bond which 

is of a supernatural nature. Spiritual 

orchestration and predestination 

created the magnetic attraction. Biblical 

reference supports that beyond artificial 

resuscitation, the breath of life comes 

from within and not from without. A 

man’s motivation and inspiration can give 

a woman a reason to believe that there 

are endless possibilities as she endures 

the burden that she bears. 

There is a necessity for 

encouragement through exchange. 

A man can elevate her vision as 

she gains revelations of life. 

Breast cancer may challenge a woman’s 

ability to breathe, but it will never limit 

her ability to inspire. One must never 

forget the importance of her role as 

mother and wife. Through her care and 

nurturing, the world is a better place. 

Every child that has been a part of her 

effectual caress and touch are destined to 

become contributions to society. A man 

will never fully comprehend the depth 

of her intuition and inner wisdom. Her 

endless patience and understanding 

can’t be compared. A good woman is 

irreplaceable. Those that have been 

within her special aura are better for it. 

Where would one be without a loving 

mother? 

Within an unpredictable world, there is 

the unimaginable pain and suffering that 

breast cancer may bring. It’s a situation 

that few men will ever experience, 

although there are a few. A woman 

is more keenly aware that within her 

internal make-up, her personal DNA, 

breast cancer has the potential to impact 

her life for all times. Each breath she takes 

is measured and treasured, knowing that 

it could be her last. It becomes important 

for her to know that if she falls, a man will 

be there to lift her up. It is significant that 

a man who does not fully understand is 

willing to be through necessity—a breath 

of fresh air! 

16 


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Family Suppo 

My Senior Moment 2.0 

Each year 

in October 

the media, 

mainly focused on 

breast cancer, brings 

attention to women’s 

health in general. 

While most do not 

think of loneliness 

as a health problem, 

AARP states that 

there is a 26% 

increased risk of death 

due to subjective 

feelings of loneliness. 

With 51% of people 

over 75 living alone, 

men are affected as 

well as women. 

During the past ten years 

since I have been widowed, 

I’ve attended grief support 

groups and spoke to many 

widows. We all agree there are 

no guidelines or preparation 

for this stage of life. Everyone 

has different circumstances 

and feelings in adapting to 

a way of life that is not of 

their own choosing. I know 

lonely widows that do not 

go around looking for pity. 

Ask how they’re doing and 

they answer, “Fine.” After a 

By Joyce R. Kebodeaux 

Pictured from L-R: My three sons, Steve, Mark, Nona, Brent 

while everybody is as tired of 

hearing our tales of woe as we 

are of telling them. 

Sometimes it is easier to act 

fine than listening to the 

well-meaning remarks. When 

expressing my feelings to one 

who asked about me, I am 

told of someone else with 

much bigger problems. While 

that may be it doesn’t change 

my circumstances. Other well 

meaning friends say, “He is 

in a better place” or “He is no 

longer in pain.” Yes, I believe 

the loved ones are in a better 

place, and no, they are no 

longer in pain. I agree and 

most of the time I am grateful 

for that, but after a while these 

sayings have been repeated so 

many times they begin to lose 

their meaning. I have wanted 

to shout, “But you just asked 

me how I am doing, not”... 

When we leave a funeral we 

return to our normal everyday 

lives. But the widowed go 

home to begin a new normal. 

Being single seems strange 

but no longer part of a couple 

is stranger still. First, cooking 

for one is no fun and then 

having no one to share the 

food with. Sometimes it 

might even be better to have 

someone there to grumble 

about the taste. 

Women in my past were afraid 

to stay alone at night after 

their man died. Grandchildren 

slept over with them while 

others moved in with one of 

their adult children and their 

family. This disrupted not only 

the widow’s life but the young 

family’slife as well. 

It’s not only about eating and 

18 


t... 

sleeping alone. The friends 

a couple socializes with are 

usually other couples. After 

the funeral the invitations to 

come alone are extended but 

after awhile it gets awkward 

for the widow or the others in 

the group. Camping, canoeing 

and dancing are some things 

where a partner can make 

a difference. Widows must 

look for other ways and other 

friends to socialize or spend 

their time alone. 

If a couple are senior citizens 

the Social Security is adjusted 

at the time of death of 

a spouse; not always for 

the better. Now only one 

check comes each month. 

The utilities, maintaining 

the house, insurance, and 

groceries etc do not go down. 

Along those financial lines, 

my husband Clyde and I were 

in this together. Talking over 

decisions about purchases, 

finances I believe two heads 

are better than one, even if 

the other head doesn’t always 

agree. 

much simpler to have a driver 

on call and take turns with 

a partner. Life goes on and I 

am blessed to share it with 

family and friends helping 

me to avoid isolation. There 

are many women walking 

this path with me. We stand 

by each other and share 

wonderful memories and 

create new ones. 

Nona Lumpkin is just one of 

the women I have met since 

the death of my husband.. 

Owners of The Lumpkin 

Agency, Nona and Bryan were 

married 64 years and worked 

together in the insurance 

office for 41 years. Their family 

grew to include 3 sons, their 

wives, grandchildren and 

great grandchildren. Nona has 

luncheons with her longtime 

friends and continues to make 

new ones. She attends church 

services and bible study. She 

enjoys vacations and reunions, 

graduations and birthdays 

with her families. This summer 

she went on a cruise and a 

vacation in Florida. 

Married and retired couples 

stand by each other for 

doctor’s appointments. I didn’t 

have to look any further than 

my Clyde’s old recliner to 

know that if I couldn’t drive 

home after a test or procedure 

he was there. My family helps 

out in these cases but then 

as most mothers do, I worry 

about disrupting their lives 

and the inconvenience. It was 

One thing retirees and 

widows don’t have to have 

is a schedule. Some us need 

predictability. Nona does 

not have to worry about this. 

Every morning each of her 

three sons calls her. One calls 

every evening to say good 

night. Knowing they are well 

and thinking of her she begins 

each day with a smile that lasts 

all day. 

Nona and the late Bryan Lumpkin Married 64 years 

worked together 41 years at the Lumpkin Agency. 


SWLA sports 

By Tori Hebert 

Bump, Set, Spike! 

McNeese Volleyball Focuses on Championship Tournament 

The McNeese volleyball team is 

already halfway through the 

regular season and all their 

remaining games are conference 

matches. The Southland Conference 

Tournament is set for mid-November 

and the Cowgirls know they will have 

to fight with everything they have 

to earn a spot in the bracket. During 

the preseason, head coach Ashleigh 

Fitzgerald said, “As far as our conference 

schedule goes, there will be no backing 

our way into the conference tournament 

in November. With all 13 programs being 

eligible for postseason this year and with 

our Southland schedule being what it is, 

we are going to have to be very good to 

get into the tournament.” 

In the 2017 Southland Conference 

preseason poll the Cowgirls were 

predicted to finish ninth this season. 

Despite a few loses on the record the 

team has showed their determination 

to be on top. During the Western Illinois 

Buffalo Wild Wing Invitational, five 

players recorded 10 or more digs in the 

match and an overall season high of 

102 digs. That same match saw Jenny 

D’Alessandro pick up a season high seven 

blocks including five that were assisted. 

Sophomore Angela McGownd was 

Southland Conference Volleyball 

Defensive Player of the Week for two 

consecutive weeks in September. She 

is the first two time winner of the award 

this season and has over 300 digs making 

her one of the top players in the nation. 

McNeese still has over one month 

of regular season play before the 

championship. Every game will count 

and mistakes could be costly. The 

Cowgirls play in Memorial Gym at 

McNeese State University. 

2017 McNeese Volleyball 

Oct. 7 *Sam Houston St. 

Oct. 12 *NW State 

Oct. 14 *Central Arkansas 

Oct. 17 Prairie View 

Oct. 19 *at Stephen F. Austin 

Oct. 21 *at Lamar 

Oct. 28 *at Nicholls 

Nov. 2 *New Orleans 

Nov. 4 *SE La. 

Nov. 9 *at Central Arkansas 

Nov. 11 *at NW State 

Nov. 17-19 Southland Conference Tournament 

Sophomore Angela McGownd was Southland 

Conference Volleyball Defensive Player of the 

Week for two consecutive weeks in September. 

20 


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SWLA Book Review 

By Terri Schlichenmeyer 

PRETTY SICK 

THE BEAUTY GUIDE 

for Women with Cancer 

HOW TO LOOK 

YOUR BEST 

WHEN YOU FEEL 

YOUR WORST 


Oh, that’s not good. 

There’s more hair on 

your shower drain than 

there is on your head. Not good 

at all, but thanks, Chemo, for that 

and for dry skin, no eyebrows, 

weight fluctuations, and brittle 

nails. You’re trying to get better; 

looking better shouldn’t be so 

impossible. With “Pretty Sick” by 

Caitlin M. Kiernan, though, you’ll 

look primo despite chemo. 

So the diagnosis is in. You’ve got 

cancer and you’re no dummy: 

you know what’s about to 

happen, to the inside of you and 

the outside. So how do you take 

care of the former, while keeping 

the latter looking great? 

First of all, says Kiernan: smell. 

Yes, chemotherapy might affect 

your sense of smell and your 

taste buds. You’ll want to avoid 

your favorite foods on chemo 

day, and set aside your usual 

scented lotions for now. Look 

for a second-best to get you 

through, and return to your faves 

after treatment is over and your 

olfactory sense returns. 

The subject of hair is touchy, but 

it’s something that can be easily 

handled. Wigs today are stylishly 

realistic, hats are fashionable, 

scarves look great if you wear 

them right. Shop for these things 

now while you still have hair or, if 

thinning is what’s to come, talk to 

a stylist. Remember: it’s only hair. 

It’ll come back. 

22 

It might sound like just another 

thing, but make an appointment 

with your dentist before starting 

treatment and know how to 

make “magic mouthwash” to 

combat mouth sores. Be willing 

to experiment with make-up; if 

you can, get a makeover or, at 

the very least, ask for samples of 

product you can try at home. Go 

a little crazy. Have fun with it. 

As for your skin, yes, 

chemotherapy will change that, 

too, so beware. Now’s the time to 

consider changing your morning 

routine with different cleansers 

and products, but think twice 

before going “organic.” Showers 

are always better than baths, and 

be sure to slather on moisturizer 

once you’ve patted yourself 

dry. There are also lots of great 

products to use if you’ll have 

radiation, but talk to your doctor 

or oncologist first. 

I was very happy to see that 

warning inside “Pretty Sick.” I was 

happy, in fact, to see that author 

Caitlin M. Kiernan is careful to 

caution her readers on just about 

everything in this book, which 

makes it even more helpful. 

So does the fact that Kiernan 

herself is a cancer survivor, which 

gives her words a been-theredone-that 

ring of truth – not 

just for beauty, but in dressing 

comfortably, finding a surgeon, 

reconstruction, and reclaiming a 

healthy sex life, all with purpose 

and strength. Also nice: while her 

examples do have a certain bigcity 

tone to them and there’s a lot 

of celeb name-dropping, the tips 

and advice are totally down-toearth. 

And on that note, while this 

“Pretty Sick: The 

Beauty Guide for 

Women with Cancer” 


book was written for cancer 

survivors, it could be helpful for 

any woman facing serious illness. 

If you want to look great when 

you’re not feeling it so much, 

“Pretty Sick” is pretty good. 

c.2017, Grand Central Life & Style 

$19.99 / $25.99 Canada 

272 pages 


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ADVENTURES of the Lake 

The WORLD’S 

STRONGEST 

WomenSingle 

Mothers 

By Ian Thibodeaux 

Ianander Thibodeaux, a recent Mass 

Communication graduate from McNeese 

enjoys travel and writing about interesting 

experiences and adventures in SWLA. 

Message Ian S. Thibodeaux on Facebook to 

have your adventures featured. 

God is a father to the 

fatherless and gives them 

fair judgement. (Psalms 

68:5, 82:3 paraphrased) 

Moms, they were 

there from the very 

beginning of our 

conception. They cook for 

us, cleaned up our messes, 

gave us encouragement and 

wisdom in times of panic. 

Our mothers were the ones 

who supported our biggest 

dreams when it seemed like 

no one else would. It seemed 

like she was always there 

to help. However, that’s just 

your average mom. There 

exists another type of mom 

that goes above and beyond 

what’s normal. Someone 

who has little to no help, but 

still has to make a way. This 

woman is called a single mom. 

Single mothers hold a very 

special place in my heart. If 

you are wondering why, it’s 

because I was raised by one. 

My parents divorced when I 

was five. As you could imagine, 

this had a profound impact 

on my life. Not having both of 

my parents together meant 

that life as I knew it would be 

different. As a child with little 

understanding about what 

was going on, what I knew as 

a happy family was torn apart 

and my world with it. 

From then on it was just me 

and my mother. My mom did 

the best she could to provide 

me with the things I needed. 

Whatever things she wanted 

for herself had to be put on 

hold for my sake. 

Briona' Jcorrie, a young 

single mother with her 

two year old son Julius 

lives in Lake Charles 

Louisiana. She says, “As 

a single mom, many 

times I have to make 

sacrifices and go without 

so my child can have. 

At times I may have to 

leave work to tend to my 

child because no one 

else is available to help. 

Single moms are doctors, 

teachers and chefs all in 

one. It’s a full time job 

and we don’t get sick 

days.” 

Briona has a physical 

condition called Scoliosis 

(A sideways curvature 

of the spine). She stated 

that she wishes she 

could do more with her 

son. “I wish I could play 

with him at the park or 

take him places, but 

physically I cannot do so 

sometimes.” 

Looking back on my own life, 

there were many times where 

my mother would give her 

last just so I could have what 

I wanted. This would make it 

that much harder to get me 

the things I needed, but as a 

child I was ignorant to that 

fact. If only I had known how 

those sacrifices would affect 

her. 

Yes, there are countless times 

where a single mother will 

have to endure pain to take 

care of her child’s needs. Some 

may even start to feel like they 

aren’t doing enough. This is 

very painful and can affect her 

ability to move, making it that 

much harder to perform her 

motherly duties. 

Despite whatever painful 

trials a single mom has to 

endure, she will work through 

it and be there for her child. 

I’m sure there were plenty 

of times when my mother 

felt physically and mentally 

drained, but she pushed 

on because I needed her 

and her care. These women 

possess a certain type of 

unexplainable strength. A kind 

of strength that no man can 

ever comprehend or have. 

If it wasn’t for my mother’s 

unrelenting drive to never give 

up and rely on God’s guidance, 

I wouldn’t be half the man I am 

today. So here’s my message 

to all the single mothers out 

there. 

Dear single mothers, 

At times you may feel like 

you’re not doing enough and 

failing as a parent, but that 

is not the case. I know that 

there is nothing you won’t do 

to care for your child. Even 

when you’re a mess, you still 

have "S" on your chest, a 

supernatural supermom. Just 

like a superhero, you defeat 

any obstacle you face. You 

always find the strength you 

need to make things happen 

and do what some would 

think impossible. You are our 

strongest fighter and first 

responder. So continue to look 

up to where your help comes 

from and you will do just fine. 

As a boy to a man who was 

raised by a single mother, I can 

say with confidence that we 

need you, Mom. So just know 

that your love is enough, God’s 

grace is sufficient, and we’ll 

turn out just fine. 

24 


Top left: Ritha Thibodeaux holds one year old son Ian Thibodeaux and 

celebrates him graduating from McNeese Sp. 2017 and living on his own. 

Briona Jcorrie moves forward with her two year old son, Julius. 

FINE ART WITH AN ELEMENT OF DIGNITY. 

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sell their works. 

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•• 

Accepting paintings, sketchings, sculpture, pottery; 

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7thartisan@gmail.com 


Q&A 

Real 

People 

Real 

Lives 

By Brenda hill 

Cynthia Lemelle, Senior 

Circle Member, submitted 

an article to The Voice 

of Southwest Louisiana in 

October 2015, that shared her 

experiences as a breast cancer 

survivor in SWLA; Lemelle, C. (2015, 

October), Senior Circle Member on Personal 

Mission. The Voice of Southwest Louisiana, 

3(10). She devised a simple survey to 

see if other local breast cancer patients 

experienced same or similar treatments 

from our local breast cancer health 

care providers. She now shares answers 

to questions about those results, and 

lessons learned. 

Trust Your Feelings 

QAny new discoveries or facts about 

breast cancer for our local area? 

AChristus LiveWell Network recently 

sponsored a dinner to encourage 

women's wellness. There were, as always, 

lots of vendors, good food, tons of good 

information, a really good speaker, and 

the best door prizes in town. 

26 

Cynthia Lemelle 

Dr. Windy Dean-Colomb was introduced 

to the auditorium as one of the newest 

additions to the Christus Oncology staff. 

As a breast cancer survivor herself, Dr. 

Dean made this astonishing statement. 

"According to a Lafayette-based 

survey, more women die of breast 

cancer in the state of Louisiana 

than any other state in the 

country,” says Dr. Colomb. 

That was one of those ‘pick-your-head-up 

pay attention’ facts that deserved more 

information and explanation. 

QHow did you reckon that piece of 

information being a breast cancer 

survivor? 

AThe presentation of that fact 

brought me back to Oct. 2015, when 

I pondered a few questions about breast 

cancer treatment and wrote about my 

observations in an article and submitted 

it to The Voice of Southwest Louisiana. 

As grateful as I was to be a breast cancer 

survivor as of September 3, 2013, 

there were many questions about my 

experience that haunted me. 

QWould you recap your personal 

mission? 


AMy personal mission was to 

understand how other breast cancer 

survivors felt about the treatment they 

received from our local area. My method 

of action was a simple survey. In no 

way do I call this tidbit of information 

scientific because the participants’ 

responses were to help me alleviate 

my own apprehension about the care I 

received. As I mentioned in the article, 

“I was released from treatment as 

if I was being expelled from school 

with no note from my teacher.” 

QWhat did you hope to learn from the 

survey? 

AI had hoped the answers of other 

breast cancer survivors would, more 

or less, soothe my soul, and in spite of my 

own feelings of apprehension, answer my 

question, “Did I make the best decisions 

possible concerning my care? 

Lesson Learned: 

Be very careful about asking others 

personal health questions. 

The response to the survey was not as 

large as I had hoped for. Though I was a 

little disappointed, the over-all attitude 

was positive. 

QWhat types of questions were 

asked? 

AThe types of questions asked were: 

'Where did you receive treatment, 

and why that facility? Were you happy 

with the information and treatment 

given? Would you revisit the same facility 

and doctors, if needed, for a second 

time?' 

QHow did you calculate the results? 

AWith the help of a very special 

young woman, ( Breast Cancer 

Patient Navigator), answers and 

responses were compiled into a readable 

form. 

QWhat were the most interesting 

points found in your survey? 

A 

All 

responding participants were 

women. 

• 10 out of 16 women were between the 

ages of 51 and 70 years-old. 

• Most women discovered their cancer 

through a mammogram. 

• More than half received local 

treatment. 

• Only half said they were happy with 

information received. 

• 11 out of 16 said they would return to 

or recommend their doctors. 

• 9 out of 16 said they would return to 

the same facility/hospital. 

The over-all response to my simple 

survey seems to indicate that these 

breast cancer survivors were pleased 

with the actions and advice of our local 

doctors and hospitals. 

There is no further reason for me to 

believe that you ‘cannot’ or ‘will not’ 

receive the same level of professional 

care for breast cancer as you would in a 

larger metropolitan area. 

QWhat are your conclusions about 

breast cancer treatment and 

awareness in Louisiana? 

A 

Inevitably, 

I must conclude that 

my feelings of apprehension 

are personal. At this point, I ask every 

reader and every person who face the 

challenges of a life-threatening illness to 

understand how important it is to have a 

positive attitude and confidence in those 

who provide you treatment and care. 

There is an abundance of information 

available to help you choose the right 

doctor, surgeon, or hospital. 

September 2017, Vol. 58, No. 7, AARP's 

Bulletin had an excellent article on the 

subject. Another reliable source would 

be the State Board of Medical Examiners 

website for our state. 

While most of the respondents to the 

survey chose their doctor because they 

were referred by a doctor they trusted, 

this does not mean you lack trust if you 

seek background information on doctors 

and facilities. 

Do not overlook your own level of 

comfort as a very important resource. 

Impressions of the person being 

interviewed to administer life-saving 

treatment and advice to you should 

not be overlooked. Ask questions and 

never accept, 'I don't know' without an 

explanation. 

Though there have been improvements, 

progress and many blessings in 

breast cancer treatment, there remain 

many gaps in treatment for women 

of Louisiana. As of the end of August 

of this year, I find myself in a unique 

position to justify that statement. 

After approximately sixteen months 

of complaints and eight doctors, I was 

finally diagnosed with Stage IV Metastatic 

Breast Cancer. Without recrimination this 

brings me back to the original purpose of 

the survey and the shocking statement 

made by Dr. Dean: more women die of 

breast cancer in the state of Louisiana 

than any other state in the country. 

Pictured L-R: Cynthia Lemelle and Dr. Windy Dean- 

Colomb, Christus Oncology. 

What can we do to assure better 

outcomes for our mothers, sisters, and 

daughters? Together we find answers 

when we ‘insist’ and ‘persist.’ My prayer 

is not only to survive breast cancer, but 

to benefit someone else through my own 

experiences. I pray you are the one.

The Voice of Southwest Louisiana October 2017 Issue

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