Over four years after her journey with breast cancer, a local woman is striving to create more ways for women who either have, or are currently dealing with, the disease to connect with others and draw support.

Valerie Klassen
    
During her journey, Valerie Klassen says the support she received from so many people was huge in getting her through that time and is still helping her.
    
As a way to create connections for others, and say thank you to her supporters, Klassen organized a "Pink Night Gala," which was held Saturday in Winkler. Although there are many large national and international events to bring awareness to breast cancer, Klassen said she wanted to create something local to bring to the forefront how much breast cancer is affecting so many women in our community.

"Without talking about it, we kind of feel solo in that journey," said Klassen. "I want to bring a little bit more fun to that journey. Even though we've gone through it, there's so many of us that have supported others, and I want to keep those connections going in a fun positive way. I also want to lift up those that have been on the journey."

Klassen says some people may be too shy to make a connection, and says she is opening herself up to being available to help someone else. Through the gala event and the Brahaha event held earlier this month, Klassen hopes a support group of some kind may spawn out of this.

"I know that the message of joy needs to get through, that you can make it though, and cancer doesn't have to be the overwhelming or depressing umbrella or cloak you have to wear."

Meanwhile, the event raised just over $400 for the Boundary Trails Health Centre Foundation.

Related article: "Bras Decorated For A Cause"

Some of the decorated bras on display at the Winkler Arts & Culture Centre. The bras were decorated at an event earlier this month and have been on display at the museum for most of October