480 Days after Katrina: Inside and Out: a True Story

Author Bio: Melvin Cohea

Melvin Cohea was born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans, shaped by the strong hands of his mother and grandmother. Both were respected members of the medical community, alongside his very hospitable grandfather, “Bill.” From a young age, they began grooming Melvin for the future that lay ahead. He was the oldest grandson in a Christian, hardworking environment, guided first by the grace of God, and then by the dedicated support of teachers, professors, instructors, aunts, and mentors. All the knowledge they instilled in him crystallized during the devastation of August, 2005.

Grandpa Bill’s timeless advice was simple yet profound: “Always treat people as if they are you, and focus on things that we all will need.” He taught Melvin the essentials of life: “We all have to eat, so here’s how you cook. We all have to use the bathroom, so here’s the plumbing skill, and we all will get sick, so pay attention to your grandmother and your mother for the medical knowledge!”

Since Hurricane Katrina, Melvin has been on a continuous tour across our beautiful country, working within the medical community. His mission is to bridge the gap to New Orleans with a spirit of hospitality, incredible food, fun, and profound compassion, wherever God sends him. People often ask if Melvin misses New Orleans. His reply is always the same: “I have so much New Orleans in me, I’m here to share some with you guys! Yeah Baby! Laissez les bons temps rouler!” Let the good times roll!