Nina's Coffee Cafe has stood in St. Paul, Minnesota, for two decades, but inside its doors, a community fixture has worked a bit more behind the scenes lately.

In April, the cafe's owner, June Berkowitz, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

"She's been handling it all with a smile and a lot of grace," said friend Mya Honeywell.

Several of Berkowitz's friends have since decided to lend a hand, starting up a fundraiser for their beloved friend, known for her love of local music, the arts and always being there to brighten someone's day.

"June is ... a bright light," said longtime customer Julie Duckstad. "She has a smile, and she is just a really positive person."

In the past few days, nearly $20,000 has poured in from the community.

"We've had people from St. Paul, people from out of

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