B the Light Board Welcomes New Board Member - Chiloe Kottke

We couldn’t be more honored to welcome such an accomplished person, as well as dear friend as a board member for B the Light.

The story begins when Chiloe Kottke and B the Light founder, Amber Melby were "set up" by the Oncology department nurses, during treatment for breast cancer. The nurses knew their stories were similar; both 40 years old, young moms, both nurses. Amber and Chiloe hit it off! From the first day and found themselves finishing each other’s thoughts and sentences.

"We supported each other through our journeys. I looked forward to seeing her every Tuesday in our chairs, discussing all of the ups and downs of cancer treatments, side effects, how our families were coping, always counting down until our last chemo.”, said Melby. “Our 5 year anniversary of meeting is fast approaching...August 25th. Can't imagine what my journey would have looked like without meeting her.”, Amber finished.

Chiloe has a passion for people. This unmistakable passion is the guiding force behind her work, aspirations and way of life. Throughout her nursing career, she’s had the privilege of meeting and working with many wonderful people in different areas, including ER, OB, Emergency Preparedness and Infection Prevention. Most recently, she’s taken on the leadership role of Director of Nursing at Sleepy Eye Medical Center.

Inspired to make a difference in the world, Chiloe is a philanthropist at heart. She has been involved in many fundraising efforts, both locally and internationally. In 2006, Chiloe co-founded the organization Destination Education, working for 6 years to enrich lives through education in our economically disadvantaged schools as well as globally in Kenya, providing scholarships, building latrines and clean water systems, and working closely with an all-women’s tribe in Umoja village. In 2018, Chiloe and a team of coworkers raised funds to bring 3D mammography technology to patients at Sleepy Eye Medical Center, and she was named 2018 Employee of the year. (show above)

Chiloe is a wife, mother of 4 girls, avid Vikings fan. When she’s not working, she is an expert thrifter and thrill-seeking traveler. She is also a breast cancer survivor. She will bring a unique perspective, along with Amber on how B the Light can extend the support component for those on their breast cancer journey.

Welcome Chiloe Kottke to our B the Light team and thank you for your friendship and service!