ARCOLA - Kennedy Tessier is a resident of Arcola and is married to the town’s Mayor Scott Tessier.
She is compassionate about cancer, as it hits close to home after her father died from a rare throat cancer in 2019, and her grandmother is a cancer survivor.
Her motivation is to honour her father and make a positive impact in the lives of others who are affected by the disease.
Two years ago, she organized and hosted her first Cancer Thrivers event, and it will be held in Estevan on April 5.
Through this event, Tessier found solace and purpose in supporting cancer survivors and raising awareness about the different forms of cancer.
With her commitment to giving back, Tessier and tattoo artist Bradon Bell will hold the event at Monarch Aesthetics’ Lounge, giving a percentage to fighting cancer.
People can book their tattoo through Bell, but he also welcomes walk-ins. Supporters will have the opportunity to adorn themselves with a unique design and simultaneously contribute to a great cause.
Bell is originally from Saskatoon and moved to Estevan 10 years ago.
“I am excited to be part of this because it is an absolutely great cause,” said Bell.
According to Tessier, 50 per cent of her proceeds will go to fighting cancer.
Tessier has owned Wild Flower Photos for six years, and she will capture the essence of the event through the eye of her camera lens.
Her sessions of 60 minutes will have two meticulously-edited images included in the fee as a cherished keepsake of the day’s festivities.
For three years, Tessier has held Cancer Warrior Shoots. She embarked on this journey fueled by a desire to raise awareness for all cancers, but particularly breast cancer, as her grandmother fought it.
Another Cancer Thrivers event will be held in Regina on May 25 at the Podium Executive Club. Cancer survivors courageously share their journey, and these narratives are transformed into videos and shared with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA).
At this event there will be speakers from SCA and other experts in cancer advocacy and patient support.
A complimentary photo shoot is offered to survivors, along with a care package for those attending, and a gift certificate from the photo shoot for later use.
Tessier hopes that these small gestures will uplift and support those going through their cancer experience.
It is her vision to expand the reach and scope of her event through partnerships with organizations that share her commitment to those with cancer.
Together she hopes to shine a light on the journey of those with this horrible disease by offering support, hope and solidarity.
