Community surprises Allina Health cancer patient with bell ringing send-off

[KARE 11, March 30, 2020] Surprise parties are nearly impossible to achieve in these times of social distancing, but a Northfield community found a way to pull off an unforgettable send-off on Tuesday, for a beloved neighbor battling brain cancer.

Barb Barlau, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in January.

Several Northfield police officers joined a line of cars that ran down neighborhood streets, while neighbors stood in their yards to take part in a special celebration - with plenty of separation - for Barb Barlau.

Up the road in Minneapolis at Abbott Northwestern Hospital a few hours later, Barb completed her last treatment, ringing the bell by herself.

When she walked out, her grandkids were there to greet her with cheers. A final surprise, at a safe distance of course.