Cancer survivor Gladys Monti was recently honored with a tea party “fit for a queen” at UConn Health’s Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Monti has been a patient of Dr. Jeffrey Wasser’s for more than three years. Even though the 83-year-old has undergone multiple treatment regimens for her lung cancer, she continues to be optimistic with a generous heart.

“Gladys has been Dr. Wasser’s number one fan and has surprised us with many gifts over the years and has even dressed up in costume for many of the past holidays, bearing candy and gifts for all,” says nurse Laura Sabourin. “She is caring, energetic, sassy, has a wonderful heart, and quite a sense of humor.”

In the spirit of the giving season, the cancer center wanted to give back to Monti and surprise her with a tea party “fit for a queen.” Why a tea party? Sabourin says Monti loves tea and wakes up every morning around 4 a.m. to have her daily cup.

“We were hopeful that giving her a royal tea party where she is queen for the day, would allow her to share snacks, tea, and conversation among good company,” explains Sabourin. “She is a very special person and we wanted her to know how much her generosity has been appreciated by all of us.”