First annual B the Light gala raises $90,000

Funds will go to help Minnesota breast cancer survivors and families

“https://ogden_images.s3.amazonaws.com/www.nujournal.com/images/2019/11/22223847/HOPE-letters-professional.jpg” alt=”” width=”653″ height=”436″ class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-699825″ />The local charity B the Light, founded in 2016 by breast cancer survivor Amber Melby, held it’s first event at the Sleepy Eye Event Center on October 26th. The message of the night was “Never Give Up Hope”, words that were inspirational to Melby through her own cancer journey.

There was an incredible outpouring of support from the community and local businesses, with almost $25,000 in sponsorships and 320 guests in attendance. People had the option of purchasing a ticket for a breast cancer survivor, and 25 local women were able to attend the event for free. Survivors also received a special bracelet.

Brenda Ruch, New Ulm resident and breast cancer survivor said “the excitement before and during the event were contagious! My heart was touched by the Survivor bracelet I received and the many different generations working towards raising funds for others. Cancer is a family event!”

Guests listened to a young Minnesota woman battling stage 4, incurable breast cancer. She talked about the importance of having opportunities to take a break from cancer to travel and make memories with her family while she can.

Stories like this inspired B the Light to create a program called Hope Getaways, which is what the funds raised from the gala will be used for. Melby said “Our goal is to model organizations such as the Make A Wish foundation. B the Light’s mission is to offer hope to breast cancer survivors, one getaway at a time”.

B the Light would like to thank all of our sponsors, guests, volunteers and donors for making this event a huge success!

You can read more about B the Light at bthlight4someone.org or follow on the Facebook page “B the Light” or Instagram @Bthelight4someone.

Thanks for Day of Caring help

Many thanks to the four wonderful young ladies who came to our apartment and did some tasks for us during the United Way Day of Caring. It was wonderful, as they always are.

United Way Day of Caring is a great service to the area.

Darlene & Clint Nelson