We’re still glowing from A Night Out for ABCD: Illuminate! With 300+ guests, including more than 50% first-time attendees at an ABCD event, it was an inspiring evening of FUNdraising at the Baird Center on May 1 in Milwaukee.

Watch TMJ4's live coverage that shined a light on the critical gap we fill through our free emotional support services. It’s a powerful reminder of why we came together — and of the legacy that began with ABCD’s late founder, Melodie Wilson Oldenburg. Since Melodie launched ABCD in 1999, we have served more than 111,000 people impacted by breast cancer.

Our services are funded exclusively through donations. Every dollar raised — at the event and always — makes an immediate difference to anyone who needs us:

In a powerful highlight from the event, Mentor Monique Morris shared what it was like to be diagnosed at 31 as a young mother and why she chose to give back as a Mentor. “I decided that if there were even a chance I could provide a listening ear or a word of encouragement that helped another woman get through her difficult moment, then it would be more than worth it,” she said. Monique's poignant story touched everyone in the room, who gave her a standing ovation.

The Milwaukee Admirals and Traction Factory were also honored with the 2025 Power of One-to-One Award for their outstanding partnership that has raised awareness and funds to support ABCD, including the ABCD-branded Zamboni that boldly states: “Facing it alone stinks more than hockey gear.” Scott Bucher, Traction Factory Founder and President, accepted the award and is pictured below with ABCD Board President Billie Jean Smith (left) and Executive Director Ellen Friebert Schupper (right).

Since the Admirals were busy playing their first playoff game that night, they sent a thank you video that you can watch here.

We were thrilled to host 36 of our volunteer Mentors, who all together have supported more than 373 people across the country. Our Mentors are truly the heart of ABCD. Their willingness to share their time and stories is what makes our mission come alive.

And of course, the dueling pianos performance by Guyton Entertainment was a crowd favorite that had the whole room singing along. Thanks to everyone who donated to request a song, we met the $10,000 match! We are deeply grateful to Harpreet Grewal — a longtime donor from California who turned to ABCD for support in 2021 when his wife was diagnosed — and his family for making the match.

With deepest gratitude to our sponsors, event committee, and everyone who attended or participated in our silent auction, thank you for making A Night Out for ABCD: Illuminate truly shine! ✨