SAN DIEGO -- As part of the fifth annual San Diego Remembers Matthew Shepard vigil and celebration held last week, a photo project held during the event encouraged participants to think about the stereotypes that might hold them back in their daily lives.

SDGLN media partner Gay San Diego published a full page spread of some of the photos in its edition today, which were taken by local photographer and activist Cali Griebel.

I recall an instance when a patient came into the emergency room with a complaint of a large lump that had been growing under their arm for years. They were diagnosed that visit with terminal cancer that had since spread to various parts of their body.

This individual lacked health care coverage that would have enabled regular health visits to a primary care doctor. I imagine that sooner evaluation of the mass by a physician would have lead to earlier diagnosis, and the potential treatment of a cancer whose spread may have been prevented.

SAN DIEGO -- For some, it is easy to forget the world offers an infinite number of playgrounds beyond the borders of 92103. Yes, Uptown has many charms, but sometimes you may find yourself craving a type of adventure that cannot be satiated by visiting the latest restaurant or wine bar. This is where the Men’s Ski and Snowboard Club comes in.

The club, more commonly referred to as SAGA, has chapters located throughout California. And although the name implies it is exclusive to men who love winter sports, that assumption barely scratches the surface.

(Editor's note: This interview was originally published HERE by SDGLN media partner Gay San Diego.)

Councilmember Carl DeMaio is the openly gay Republican candidate for San Diego mayor, and has repeatedly said he is running on a platform based on economic and fiscal issues. He has received much criticism from some in the LGBT community, and addresses this criticism as well as his run for mayor in this exclusive interview.