Gina LaManna’s journey to founding The Fondle Project didn’t start with a plan. It began with a feeling—one of dread, one that gnaws at the gut. She’d sensed something wasn’t right, a nagging instinct that, despite medical reassurances, her body was trying to tell her something. A few missed diagnoses later, Gina trusted herself over the tests. And that’s how she found her breast cancer.

Through a combination of self-exams and an MRI, Gina ultimately discovered what had been hidden in plain sight. That experience taught her the critical value of self-awareness and, even more, of self-advocacy. She realized that, as women, we’re often taught to defer to others when it comes to our own health. But Gina knew it was time to change that narrative—not just for herself but for countless women who might feel silenced, dismissed, or afraid to listen to their own instincts. And from this powerful revelation, The Fondle Project was born.

The Fondle Project’s mission is about redefining what it means to thrive after a breast cancer diagnosis. More than simply surviving, Gina envisions a world where women flourish, embracing their bodies and their stories with pride. The project is built on five key pillars:

1. Knowing Your Normal - encouraging women to become intimately familiar with their own bodies.
2. Self-Advocacy - equipping women with the confidence to speak up for their health.
3. Embracing Your Scars - viewing scars as symbols of strength and resilience.
4. Thriving Beyond Treatment - fostering a life filled with joy and purpose post-treatment.
5. Empowered Community - creating a safe space for shared experiences and mutual support.

It’s a word that stops you in your tracks—fondle. Gina knew that. She also knew that reclaiming this word could open up a new way of talking about breast health: frank, fearless, and free of discomfort. For Gina, fondle is a reminder to touch, to examine, to know your body well enough that no change goes unnoticed. 

At its heart, The Fondle Project is about storytelling. Gina knew that by sharing her journey, she could inspire others to share theirs. And so, it became a place where women could lift each other up, where strength and vulnerability were celebrated equally. From fashion-inspired photoshoots to editorial-style pieces, the project shines a light on the beauty of resilience, showing women as they are---vibrant, whole, and fierce.

Maya was thrilled to partner with Gina to support such an inspiring cause. Together, they've designed a jewelry piece that beautifully embodies the mission of The Fondle Project. This collaborative creation serves as a wearable reminder for women to prioritize their health and practice self-care, symbolizing empowerment and self-love. 

Gina has turned her journey into a movement, inviting women everywhere to rewrite their stories from a place of power and purpose—together. You can shop The Fondle Necklace HERE.

Photographer of the campaign images @katepowerslovesyou