Cancer Survivor Praises Wings of Hope Ahead of 2026 Winter Gala

Nonprofit organization provides free programs and services to support cancer patients and survivors in Council Bluffs.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Emmy Neustrom, a recent breast cancer survivor, is praising the support she received from Wings of Hope, a nonprofit organization in Council Bluffs, Iowa that offers free programs and services for cancer patients and survivors. Ahead of the organization's upcoming Winter Gala fundraiser, Neustrom shared how Wings of Hope helped her navigate her cancer journey, from the initial diagnosis to becoming a survivor.

Why it matters

Wings of Hope plays a crucial role in the Council Bluffs community by providing essential support and resources to those affected by cancer at no cost. The organization's fundraising efforts, like the upcoming Winter Gala, help ensure these vital services can continue to be offered to those in need.

The details

Wings of Hope offers a range of free programs and services for cancer patients and survivors, including companion counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and more. When Neustrom was first diagnosed with breast cancer last August, she was scared and unsure of her next steps, but the organization, particularly Dr. Anne, provided her with hope and comfort. After six months of going to Wings of Hope, Neustrom can now call herself a cancer survivor.

  • Neustrom was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2025.
  • As of January 2026, Neustrom is a cancer survivor.
  • The Wings of Hope Winter Gala is scheduled for this Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Wings of Hope

A nonprofit organization in Council Bluffs, Iowa that provides free programs and services to support cancer patients and survivors.

Emmy Neustrom

A recent breast cancer survivor who has been going to Wings of Hope programming for the past six months.

Dr. Anne

A counselor at Wings of Hope who helped Neustrom feel hopeful and calm after her initial cancer diagnosis.

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What they’re saying

“Oh my word, it's just magnificent what they can do here at Wings of Hope.”

— Emmy Neustrom, Cancer Survivor (3newsnow.com)

“I got a consultation with Dr. Anne, and she helped me greatly from the very beginning. I mean, she gave me so much hope and made me feel comfortable and calm.”

— Emmy Neustrom, Cancer Survivor (3newsnow.com)

What’s next

The Wings of Hope Winter Gala is scheduled for this Friday, February 13, 2026 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Corpus Christi Hall in Council Bluffs. The event will feature a Cajun-themed meal, a performance by the Council Bluffs Abraham Lincoln High School Jazz Band, raffles, and a silent auction.

The takeaway

Wings of Hope's free programs and services provide a vital lifeline for cancer patients and survivors in the Council Bluffs community, offering support, resources, and a sense of community during an incredibly difficult time. The organization's upcoming Winter Gala fundraiser is crucial to ensuring these essential services can continue to be offered at no cost to those in need.