Asante celebrated a Groundbreaking Ceremony for new Regional Cancer Center

MEDFORD, Ore. — A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Asante Regional Cancer Center took place Saturday afternoon.

The ceremony marked the beginning of a project that will bring outpatient cancer services under one roof.

After more than two years of planning, it's scheduled to be complete in fall 2021.

Asante Foundation Campaign Director, Andrea Reeder, said it's all done to make a better experience for people who already have a lot on their plate.

"So right now, if you're someone who has been diagnosed with cancer you have to go to multiple locations for your services. What this regional cancer center is going to do is bring all of these outpatient services to one location to truly wrap around a patient," she said.

The building is planned to be 80,000 square feet which will house all outpatient cancer services.

Those services will include imaging, radiation, chemotherapy, lab tests, and doctor consultations.

Asante leaders shared the vision to make this a reality with the community and say philanthropy is a key component in bringing this dream to life.

"Philanthropy is going to see this project through," Reeder said.

Other features planned include private spaces with expansive views for infusion patients, nurse navigator and social work programs to help guide patients through treatment, complementary care such as support groups, oncological massage, and a center for donation resources.

Additionally, there will be a dedicated space for specialists to consult with patients and their families.

Asante Forward is looking to reach $50 million dollars for the goal of their project, $10 million of which they are looking for community philanthropy.

More information on the Asante Forward campaign can be found on their organization's website.