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NEW ULM -- An organization offering programs for breast cancer survivors drew several hundred people to the Royal Oak Event Center Friday.
The B the Lights Illuminate Hope Gala was inspired by Amber Melby's aunt Brenda Pilke, who died of metastatic breast cancer several years ago. Melby and program participants said the organization has continued to grow year after year and is expanding to Mankato and beyond.
Pilke's brother Steve talked about Pilke
"She was a giver, serving others. She worked at a VA hospital and later in hospice. She was truly a light," said Steve. "Like the bible says, let your light shine, that you may give others hope."
Melby, a breast cancer survivor created B the Light, a non-profit organization in 2016 as a way to pay forward the love and light shown to her on her cancer journey.
The organization seeks to bring support, connection and hope to breast cancer survivors, their caregivers, and families.
She talked about her own breast cancer journey.
"Like many women on this journey, I was trying to balance grueling chemotherapy treatments, my job as a nurse, and the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a husband and three kids," said Melby. "I put on a brave face and reassured everyone saying 'I'm ok. I've got this. I'm a fighter' even though I was suffering.
Melby said during her journey, the acts of kindness like a homemade meal for her family or call from a friend were glimmers of hope that carried her through some of the most difficult times in her life.
"I'm shocked at how this (B the Light) has grown to Mankato and even the Twin Cities," said New Ulm musician and regenerative specialty crop farmer Andrea Lynn.
"Breast cancer can a very difficult time for survivors and care givers. This group allows survivors to support each other. And it's so great to see so many support groups like this in New Ulm," she added.
"B the Light has grown tremendously. It's been fun watching it grow," said New Ulm Medical Center General Surgeon Dr. Corrine Jordan, M.D. "There's strength in numbers and realizing what people go through to beat cancer."
Terry Helget of Sleepy Eye said B the Light was a blessing for his wife Tammy.
"She has done many things she wouldn't have done without B the Light. It's been very meaningful for her. I'm proud of her," Helget said.
Since 2016, B the Light has expanded beyond New Ulm to Mankato and neighboring communities. The organization includes six programs, relight retreats, cooking beyond cancer, hope huddles, survival fitness, holiday hope handbags and hope getaways.
Silent and live auction items included several trips to Belize and mid-court Minnesota Timberwolves tickets.
For more information, visit www.bthelightinfo.org.