Queen TuTu Sweet

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Queen TuTu Sweet!  That's me!  Or Melissa Dempsey, AKA "Lisa" if we aren't talkin' royalty.  I became a Berry Queen in 2015 when I fell in love with everything this amazing group of women were about.  I knew that I had to be a part of that!  Since then, Berry Queen'N has become a family affair!  Y'all know my Momma N'em, Queen Kiss N Makeup, Queen Sasafrass and Queen Java Jewels.  

My children were the driving force behind my volunteer work long before I became a Berry Queen.  My son Keith was born in 2004 making me a teen mother.  The first time I held him, I promised him that he and I would not become a statistic .  With lots of hard work, love and support, I have kept that promise because he was worth it.  For this reason, I dedicate much of my time to encouraging the young mothers of this community to continue their education and pursue the life they deserve.

I have been an ambassador mom for the March of Dimes since 2009 after giving birth to a micro-preemie.  Carson was a "27 Weeker", but he was the heartthrob of the NICU.  Today he is the heartthrob of fifth grade!  The bible says that our children are our inheritance, and I am rich beyond measure.  This inspired me to become a CASA for the 16th JDC where I advocate on behalf of the children in foster care to secure their place in a stable and nurturing home.

I am a founding member of New Life Recovery, LLC which is the only outpatient drug treatment center specific to opioid dependence in Iberia Parish.  At NLR, I fight alongside Queen Sasafrass, Queen Diva Doc and the NLR staff to win the war against opioid dependence here at home.

In my free time, you will find me saltwater fishing with my Stalk Stud Jason, cheering Keith on from the bleachers, conducting science experiments with Carson or cuddling my giant puppies.  I love being a Berry Queen.  I love the community we serve.  New Iberia is home and I am blessed to live this beautiful life in the place that I love.