From life-changing support for those battling cancer to year-round events that bring joy and normalcy, Beyond The Ribbon is more than a nonprofit — it’s a lifeline of hope and resilience.
By Alyssa Kang / Photos courtesy Beyond the Ribbon
RONIKA GORDEN’S life took an unexpected turn at 36. Already managing a high-risk pregnancy, she was diagnosed with Her2- negative breast cancer seven months into her pregnancy. Initially, doctors suspected the lump in her breast was a clogged milk duct, but after further tests, the truth came out: Ronika had an aggressive form of cancer. “Had I not been pregnant, I wouldn’t have known this disease was lurking in my body,” Ronika recalls, reflecting on how her pregnancy inadvertently saved her life. Two days after delivering her healthy daughter, Malia, Ronika underwent a left mastectomy and had 19 lymph nodes removed. Her husband stepped into the roles of both mother and father during her recovery, embodying what Ronika calls “agape love” as he cared for their newborn while Ronika faced the emotional and physical toll of battling cancer.
During her oncology visits, Ronika met Bobbie Menneg, a woman whose presence was as comforting as it was motivating. On Ronika’s first day of chemotherapy, Bobbie made a powerful gesture by seating her next to a patient finishing their last treatment — offering a quiet, yet meaningful reminder that recovery was possible. But Bobbie was more than a friendly face; she was the founder of Beyond the Ribbon, a nonprofit organization devoted to supporting cancer patients beyond their diagnosis. Bobbie’s work didn’t stop at a kind word or a helpful smile. Three months into Ronika’s treatment, disaster struck when a fire destroyed her family’s home. They lost everything — no clothes, no toothbrushes, no vehicle. Despite being overwhelmed by this new challenge, Ronika continued her treatments, and Beyond the Ribbon stepped in to help. “Bobbie and the organization rallied to provide us with baby supplies, gift cards, and even items for my teenagers. It wasn’t just the big things; it was the small, thoughtful gestures that meant the most,” Ronika remembers. Beyond the Ribbon rallied doctors, nurses, and the local community to support Ronika’s family in ways she never expected. “I should’ve been a hot mess,” she says, “but Bobbie kept my spirits up with her positivity and support.”
Providing Assistance and Emotional Support
Ronika’s story is just one of many illustrating how Beyond the Ribbon supports hundreds of cancer patients and their families in the most difficult moments. Founded in 2013, Bobbie’s vision was to create a lifeline for those battling cancer, providing not only practical assistance but also emotional support. Her ability to connect people with the right resources and create a network of care has been transformative for many. Beyond the Ribbon extends its impact through year-round initiatives aimed at easing the burden for cancer patients. One of their signature events, Ribbons, Reindeers, and Wishes, brings the holiday spirit to families in need. In 2023, the event sponsored Christmas for 40 families and distributed $13,000 in aid during the holiday season. This year’s celebration will be held on December 14th at 11 a.m., at The Hudgens Center for Arts, where Santa Claus is expected to make a return appearance and children will have another opportunity to “buy” gifts for their parents at no cost. Volunteers are highly encouraged to help wrap gifts and join in on the festivities, contributing to the joyful atmosphere that helps families temporarily escape the challenges of their diagnosis. The organization also hosts other events, such as the Back 2 School Backpack Drive and More to the Journey Survivor Spa Day. These efforts provide essentials to families while giving survivors a chance to heal and reconnect with a sense of normalcy. In 2023 alone, Beyond the Ribbon provided more than $50,000 in support, with the goal of reaching $75,000 in 2024. The funds directly aid families struggling with the financial toll of cancer, many of whom are single parents juggling the costs of rent and basic needs alongside their medical treatments.
Bobbie̓s Journey Bobbie, who founded Beyond the Ribbon, understands the hardships cancer patients face because she herself is a survivor. Diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive form of the disease, Bobbie endured difficult treatments, including a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Despite having a strong support system and good insurance, Bobbie realized how isolating the cancer journey could be. She saw the need for more holistic support — emotional, mental, and practical — beyond medical care. “Fifty percent of the battle is mental,” Bobbie says, emphasizing the importance of being a cheerleader for those on their hardest days. Today, Beyond the Ribbon empowers patients like Ronika not only to survive but to thrive. The organization offers a compassionate community where cancer patients and their families can find hope, encouragement, and a new sense of normal. Through events, donations, and a growing network of supporters, Bobbie and Beyond the Ribbon continue to make a profound difference in the lives of cancer patients, proving that life after cancer can be just as fulfilling — sometimes even more so — than it was before. With Bobbie at the helm, Beyond the Ribbon continues to grow, creating a powerful network of love, resilience, and hope for cancer patients and their families, helping them navigate life beyond the diagnosis and supporting them as they find their new normal.
How You Can Help:
Beyond the Ribbon relies on the generosity of the community to support cancer patients and their families. You can make a financial contribution, sponsor a family or child for Christmas, or volunteer your time to help at events and fundraisers. Every effort counts in making a difference! Additionally, spreading the word about the organization or attending their events helps raise awareness and support for those in need. For more information on how you can contribute, please visit their website BeyondTheRibbonInc.org.
Need Support?
And most importantly, if you or someone you know is facing a cancer diagnosis, Beyond the Ribbon is here to help. The organization offers resources and community connections to support you through this challenging journey. From emotional support to practical assistance, they aim to uplift and empower individuals navigating life after a cancer diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to reach out—you’re not alone in this fight. For assistance, please visit their website BeyondTheRibbonInc.org to learn more about how to connect with them.
