News Summary
Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford has been a vital part of cancer care in northern Mississippi for over two decades. Established in 2002, it offers local patients comprehensive services, eliminating the need for long-distance travel for treatment. With over 1,100 patients served monthly and programs addressing financial burdens, the center has made significant impacts in the community, providing assistance and awareness programs aimed at improving patient care.
Oxford, Mississippi – Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford has been a cornerstone of cancer care in northern Mississippi for over two decades, providing essential diagnostic and treatment services that have significantly improved the lives of thousands. Established in 2002, the center has evolved into a vital resource for local patients, eliminating the need for those in Oxford and surrounding areas to travel to Memphis or Tupelo for their cancer treatments.
Patients previously faced physical and financial challenges while seeking medical attention in distant cities, but Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford has changed that narrative by offering comprehensive care closer to home. Today, the center serves over 1,100 patients each month from more than 17 counties, making cancer care accessible for those who need it most.
The journey toward establishing a local cancer center began with advocacy from community members Jerry and Mary Lexa. Their persistent efforts included attending Mississippi State Board of Health meetings for more than a year, where they campaigned for the need for a cancer center based on thorough research. Surveys conducted by the Lexas highlighted the travel distances, financial hardships, and urgent need for accessible treatment options among local patients.
Since its inception, Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford has undergone two major expansions to accommodate the rising number of patients seeking care. Recognizing that cancer care extends beyond just medical treatment, the center implemented programs to address the logistical and financial hurdles patients face while undergoing treatment. Among these initiatives is the Mary and Jerry Lexa Patient Assistance Fund, which provides vital resources including education, transportation, lodging, meals, and necessary dental work for those in treatment. These assistance efforts help alleviate the financial burden for patients who may be unable to work during lengthy treatment periods.
Additionally, the center’s Breast Health Fund focuses on raising awareness and offering education around breast health, including providing free mammograms and ultrasounds to qualified individuals. Community events have played a crucial role in funding these programs, with activities such as the Smash Cancer Pickleball Tournament raising vital funds for both the Lexa Fund and the Breast Health Fund. Such events highlight the collective support of the community in sustaining these assistance funds, as the need continues to grow.
Patients and their families appreciate the local accessibility of the services offered at the Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford. The center not only aims to provide excellent medical care but also seeks to address the many challenges that come with navigating a cancer diagnosis. For many, the financial and logistical aspects of treatment can be just as overwhelming as the medical side, making support services essential.
Community involvement is critical for maintaining the assistance funds. Individuals wishing to contribute can make donations online, drop off contributions at the center, or mail them directly to Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford. The continuous need for patient assistance exists as more families face the reality of cancer treatment.
Overall, Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford stands as a beacon of hope and support in northern Mississippi, dedicated to transforming the cancer care experience by addressing not only medical needs, but also the financial and logistical issues that patients encounter throughout their treatment journey. With the ongoing commitment of community members and dedicated staff, the center will continue to make a lasting impact on local lives for years to come.
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HERE Resources
Oxford Fire Department and Ole Miss Unite for Breast Cancer Fundraiser with Unique Helmet Raffle
Additional Resources
- Oxford Magazine: Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford
- Google Search: Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford
- Desoto County News: Baptist Cancer Center Accreditation
- Wikipedia: Cancer
- The Daily Mississippian: UMC Care Walk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
- Oxford Magazine: Healthy Living Edition
- Google News: Cancer Fundraising
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
