It started with a nagging case of acid reflux. Tara Lessard, a prolific photographer of Philadelphia’s LGBT community who also works in a chiropractor’s office, first responded with a variety of natural remedies. Then she went to the hospital in September and found out she had ovarian cancer.
“It’s been intense,” Lessard said. “There’s no family history, which is really interesting.”
She’s undergone 12 sessions of “dose dense” chemotherapy since her diagnosis. Lessard has a surgery scheduled for the end of the month at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Camden. She said she’s changed her diet, removing gluten, eggs and nuts.
“I don’t know that I had an awareness about my health that’s as rich as it is now,” Lessard said. “It’s something I so want to bring to the community because I feel there’s a lack.”
Her friend, Diane Matkowski, who owns Freedom Massage, agreed that the LGBT community should come together for more than just nightlife activities. Matkowski also wanted to help Lessard with the financial burden of her treatments.
She organized Healthy Day at William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. It takes place from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 10. It’s free to attend, with donations welcome. People can also donate by visiting www.youcaring.com/tara-lessard-485933#.Vmr-E77d20Q.
“I love Tara,” Matkowski said, noting the two often have coffee chats over the phone. “She and I had always talked about getting the community together to be healthful. She and I have a common interest in the power of intention. She’s always looking to grow and be even kinder.”
Healthy Day will include classes, taught by Matkowski for couples or friends, on the power of “healthy touch.” She will also teach basic massage techniques while discussing the importance of self-care. Freedom Massage representatives will offer 10-minute chair massages.
Yoga instructors Marcy Mackay and Dawn Smelser will speak, along with Jimmy Two Fingas, who was named Mr. Philadelphia Drag King in 2014.
“I miss everybody,” said Lessard, who lives in Bucks County. She used to spend four to six days a week shooting events with her company Freedom G Photography, but is not driving right now.
“I’m used to being in the city,” she said. “I miss the community sense we all have together.”
She said she looks forward to Healthy Day as a chance to reunite and catch up with friends and community members.
“With cancer, people aren’t sure if they should ask you about things or how to talk to you,” she said. “I don’t think that’s necessary. I love being around people and talking with them. I’m so grateful to Diane for having thought of doing this.”
