August 27, 2010
5 Year Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina

On the eve of the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, I find myself reflecting on the past 5 years. In some ways, they have flown by. In others, as you can imagine, they have been challenging. They have most certainly been a time of hard work, and of growth for me and for all of us who experienced Katrina and its aftermath.

There are no words that can express the gratitude that I feel for all that you have done for me and for my family. I would like to thank you all for your prayers, continued support, generosity, and kindness. Through the grace of God and your presence, I have been able to persevere. I continue to find great inspiration in practicing Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery on behalf of both private and uninsured patients, and in overseeing residents at LSU Health Science Center. The courage and strength of my cancer patients, and the determination of young residents striving to make a difference remind me daily that life can be a challenge -- a challenge worth taking on, and a challenge that we overcome on a daily basis.

It is important for us to remember all those who lost their lives in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and all those who stayed and served the people of this city during such dire times. The events of the last 5 years have not only strengthened my faith, but have given me the courage and resolve to do my part to ensure that nothing like this ever happens to patients and health-care providers again. For this reason, I fought to enact legislation – the first of its kind in America – to protect patients and medical providers in times of crisis. I will continue to work for a medical environment that allows doctors to fulfill their oath, and to provide compassionate care of the highest level for their patients, no matter the circumstances.

As I look toward the future, I will continue to ask God to bless and protect all of you and our beloved city.

With deepest appreciation,
Anna Maria Pou

Read Dr. Pou's August 2010 Fox News Interview Here

On Wednesday, August 25th, Dr. Pou answered a series of questions submitted by Brian Donnelly of Fox News New York regarding her reflections on Katrina five years after those painful events, how her life has changed since then and what lessons she thinks are most important to remember. Anna's interview with Brian can be accessed at LINK

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