Staff Report The SSM Health St. Anthony Foundation has announced a $3 million gift from the Avedis Foundation to support the renovation and modernization of the Cancer Center at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital- Shawnee.

This investment helps expand access to high-quality cancer care for patients across Pottawatomie, Seminole, Lincoln counties, and surrounding rural communities.

“The Avedis Foundation is honored to support this important investment in cancer care for our region,” said Kathy Laster, President and CEO of the Avedis Foundation. “Access to high-quality, advanced treatment close to home is critical for patients and their families. This renovation will not only enhance the patient experience, but also strengthen the longterm health and well-being of communities across our service area.”

The need for this project has been driven by a steady rise in cancer cases, increasing patient volumes, and aging infrastructure that no longer meets the demands of modern oncology care. Since opening in 1996, the Cancer Center has experienced a 26.95% increase in total patient volume across all cancer-related services. At the same time, Oklahoma’s cancer incidence rate exceeds the national average, with the Center’s primary service area reporting even higher rates, including Pottawatomie County, which ranks among the highest in the state.

As one of the only comprehensive cancer centers offering integrated oncology services, including medical oncology, radiation therapy, infusion, PET imaging, and nuclear medicine, the facility serves as a vital lifeline for thousands of patients. Many individuals in this largely rural region face significant barriers to care, including transportation challenges, financial hardship, and limited access to specialized services.

“This generous gift from the Avedis Foundation is a powerful investment in the health and future of our community,” said Angi Mohr, President, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital-Shawnee. “It allows us to take a major step toward ensuring that patients can receive timely, advanced cancer care close to home.”

The renovation project will be completed in three phases:

• Phase 1 (December 2025 – May 2026): Replacement of the 18-year-old linear accelerator (LINAC) with a state-of-the-art system, enhancing treatment precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

• Phase 2 (Expected completion prior to May 2026): Renovation of the Cancer Center’s entrance and waiting areas to improve comfort, privacy, and accessibility for patients and families.

• Phase 3 (12–18 months, pending funding): A comprehensive remodel, including a 43% expansion in infusion treatment capacity, redesigned clinical spaces, and improved workflow across nuclear medicine, cardiac stress testing, and clinic operations.

A press release states that these upgrades will significantly reduce wait times, improve patient throughput, and enable more individuals to receive care locally, eliminating the need for many to travel long distances for treatment.

To build on this momentum, the Foundation is launching a community- wide fundraising campaign to secure the remaining funds needed to complete Phase 3 of the project. The campaign will be led by community leaders Cami Engles and Mindy Palmer and will include a series of outreach efforts culminating in a community event to engage supporters and raise awareness.

“Our goal is to bring the community together around this vital cause,” said Lynann Sterk-Brooks, VP of Philanthropy and Foundation at St. Anthony Foundation. “This Cancer Center belongs to all of us, and together we can ensure it continues to serve our families, friends, and neighbors for generations to come.”

The renovation will not interrupt patient care, and the Cancer Center team says it’s committed to maintaining clear communication to minimize disruption for patients and their families throughout construction.

About SSM Health St. Anthony Foundation SSM Health St. Anthony Foundation supports the healing ministry of SSM Health through philanthropic partnerships that enhance patient care, expand access to services, and improve community health outcomes across Oklahoma.

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