Mercy Cancer Center Named for The Johnson Family

Mercy Health Partners has announced the name of the new Center for Cancer Care. The new cancer center, scheduled to open in Spring 2008, will become The Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care.  The construction of the cancer center was made possible, in part, by a major gift received from the Paul C. Johnson Foundation in partnership with members of the Charles E. and Patricia B. Johnson family. 

“Very rarely in life do we have an opportunity to be a part of something that will make a huge difference in the lives of people within our own community. Our family, like so many others, has been touched by cancer.  A major part of our decision was the opportunity to honor my parents, Anne & Paul Johnson. Pat, myself, along with our three children and their families, proudly support the need to provide enhanced cancer care services for this community,” said Chuck Johnson.

The Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care has been designed to provide a comfortable and efficient experience for patients and their loved ones.  The new facility will bring together experienced cancer care professionals and state-of-the-art technology, including a new linear accelerator for oncology radiation care.  The Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care will also house a community resource library, private family meeting rooms, patient rooms, a speciality boutique and an outdoor healing garden. The healing garden will provide respite and renewal for patients, their family and friends.

“The motivation of the Johnson family in this project stems from their interest in cancer care and research.  We are honored to display the Johnson family’s name on our hospital, and we celebrate their gift to the lakeshore communities and our region. This gift will ensure the availability of quality cancer care for years to come,” states Roger Spoelman, President and CEO of Mercy Health Partners.
 
The gift, made in memory of Anne L. and Paul C. Johnson, will help fund the construction and operations of the new facility.  The Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care will be located at the site of the current Orthopaedic Associates building on the Mercy Campus on Sherman Boulevard in Muskegon.

The Cancer Center’s building renovation and expansion expenses are projected to be $13 million.  The Mercy Community Development Council, during its “quiet” fundraising phase, has already raised over $3 million in philanthropic support.  The public campaign begins today.  Funds raised through individual donors, businesses, and foundations allow Mercy to have a greater impact in caring for those needing comprehensive cancer care.  Contributions can be made by contacting the Community Development office at Mercy Health Partners, 231-672-4814.

Cancer and Hematology Centers of Western Michigan and Mercy Health Partners are jointly developing The Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care.  For over 15 years, Mercy has been providing oncology services to the lakeshore community. In 2006, Mercy ’s Cancer Program received Accreditation with Commendation from the American College of Surgeons.