(Des Moines, IA) -- A rising population and rising cancer rates are prompting a multi-million dollar fundraiser for the John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines. Unity Point Health-Des Moines plans to invest $18 million into the cancer center over the next three years with a community fundraising goal of $6 million to support critical elements of treatment beyond medical expenses. The campaign will designate $9 million for capital and equipment upgrades and $9 million will be invested in programs and services.
“For more than 30 years, the team at the John Stoddard Cancer Center has been committed to bringing the latest technology, advanced expert care, and comprehensive individualized treatment plans to each patient,” says David Stark, president and CEO of UnityPoint Health – Des Moines. “We were the first cancer center in Central Iowa to house all radiation oncology and ancillary services in one location and we continue to lead the way with the highest quality cancer care.”
Unity Point Health cites central Iowa's population growth and the fact that Iowa is 6th in the nation for annual new cancer diagnosis per capita.
“The John Stoddard Cancer Center is uniquely equipped to provide specialized, compassionate care for cancer patients and their families, but we need the help of our community to ensure we can meet the growing needs of our community now and into the future,” says Sarah Zeidler, FACHE, executive director of the John Stoddard Cancer Center
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