WESTFIELD-Esther Lassard is the epitome of a cancer warrior.
Lassard, in her early 80’s, has survived – and thrived – for more than 20 years after that initial diagnosis.
“A little spot on a mammogram was the first sign and after surgery and radiation, I have been cancer free,” said Lassard, who was among the more than 40 women last fall who were treated to the Western Mass. Mom Prom. “My kids talked me into buying a really fancy glittery dress which was pretty stylish for me.”
Esther Lassard of Westfield, center, is flanked by her daughters – April Lassard, Jean Mochak, Sharon Lassard, Lisa Murray, Ida Keane and Donna Little. (Pumpkin Head Photography)
Lassard, of Westfield, said being treated to a night out as a “warrior” was “special.”
“The night was so much fun,” said Lassard, adding, “I enjoyed every moment.”
Each fall, the women behind the nonprofit Western Mass. Mom Prom host a “ladies night out” to support cancer survivors and warriors. On Oct. 3, net proceeds from the seventh annual Ladies Only – Prom with a “Grease” theme at the Tekoa Country Club will be donated to the American Cancer Society and the Cancer House of Hope.
Amber Gibbs, also from Westfield, was nominated to attend last fall’s event since she has colon cancer.
“I enjoyed the whole night at Mom Prom,” said Gibbs. “I really liked all of the support and positive energy that everyone there had that night.”
To ensure that as many cancer survivors and warriors who are nominated can attend, fundraisers are conducted including a popular Purse Bingo and Artisan Evening that is slated March 26 at Tekoa Country Club. Doors open at 5:30 with time to meet the artisans, crafters and vendors who are supporting the cause.
At press time, Wilson Woodworks, Touchstone Crystals, Wickedly Wild Gourmet Sauces, and Rolling Rock Farms have signed on as artisans, as well as those making unique handmade items and clothing, and several direct sales vendors will also be present including Pure Haven.
Dina McMahon from 94.7 WMAS will be the emcee for the evening with bingo games starting promptly at 7. There are 10+ designer handbags up for grabs this spring.
Tickets are $30 for general admission, or $38 that includes a cup of chicken noodle soup, full turkey or ham sandwich, bag of chips and the chance at a special drawing. Highlights of the evening also include raffles and door prizes.
Last year, the nonprofit donated more than $20,000 to local cancer charities from its Purse Bingo and Mom Prom events, according to organizers.
Amber Gibbs, on left, was nominated by her aunt, Kathy Boyd, to attend the Western Mass Mom Prom last fall.
“I love seeing how much fun our survivors/warriors have at our events,” said Tammy Glynn, who serves as a board member. “We really want to try and make each woman feel loved and supported in their battle with cancer. We try to ensure that each one of our guests has a night to remember with friends and family.”
Glynn added she relishes seeing groups of women supporting those battling cancer.
“Both events help us raise money that stays local to help the men and women in our community affected by cancer.”
Board member April Lassard echoed those sentiments.
“I love co-hosting the events, hearing the laughter and knowing that we are not only raising money to help against the fight against cancer but are giving some awesome ladies a well-deserved night out with friends, some old and some new, and family,” said Lassard, adding, “having fun while fighting cancer, one prom dress and purse at a time.”
It takes a village to ensure success on all fronts, and Glynn and Lassard are also joined by board members Linda Linard-Ligsukis and Eva Dion.
The women also thanked Sunshine Village in Springfield, under the guidance of Lisa Montero, for prom decorations, Jessica Judd of Pumpkin Head Photography for free photography services, Hairworks in Southwick for hair services to all Pink Pass survivors/warriors on prom night for free, and Alexa McCabe who will provide free professional make-up services on prom night for those with “pink passes.”
For tickets and more details on the bingo event as well as the Mom Prom, sponsorship opportunities, or how to nominate a “warrior,”, visit www.westernmassmomprom.com.
The Western Mass Mom Prom, created in 2014, is a group of women volunteers who are proud to be one of more than 100 Mom Prom organizations throughout the country.
“Mom Prom is a wonderful event that allows women to come together to show support and sisterhood to women in our community who are in a battle for their life against cancer,” said Glynn. “We support those currently in the battle, celebrate those who have overcome cancer, and remember those who have lost their battle.”
Glynn added that the evening’s “environment” is always full of energy.
“You will find the crowd singing in unison on the dance floor,” said Glynn. “Everyone seems to really let loose and have fun. We feel so excited to be a part of such a wonderful night to show our support to so many brave women.”
