Katy Tessman’s benefit show at Icehouse MPLS

Since undergoing a double mastectomy on my 40th birthday, I’ve made it a personal mission to celebrate every year of life after cancer with intention and gratitude. This year is extra special—on Friday, October 18th, I’ll be celebrating my birthday and 15 years of being cancer-free with a special concert at Icehouse in Minneapolis. Laura Hugo, known for her heartfelt lyrics and soulful performances, will open the show, and I’ll be joined by my band and some special musical friends.

This event isn’t just about music—it’s also a fundraiser for Gilda’s Club–MN. I first connected with Gilda’s Club back in 2014 when I published my children’s book about breast cancer, Our Mama is a Beautiful Garden, and held an event there with Barbara Porwit and her Breast Cancer Superhero Portrait Project (yes, there’s a 7-foot-tall painting of me as Wonder Woman!). They do incredible work to support people and families affected by cancer.

This concert is about celebrating life, the healing power of music, and giving back to an organization that provides hope to so many families facing cancer.