The Gala occurs annually on the third Friday in November (this year November 15 2024).  Typically 300 people attend this event.  Each year the Gala supports one of FHN’s larger projects.  This year we will be raising funds to help us replace the Linear Accelerator at our Cancer Center.

As FHN continues to serve a growing patient population spanning 5 counties in Northwest Illinois, we have observed a significant rise in cancer diagnoses and demand for treatment. The Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center (LCFCC), a cornerstone of our community since its inception in 1995 and approaching its 30th anniversary in 2025, has been a beacon of hope for thousands of cancer patients, providing essential diagnostics and treatment services. However, the aging Linear Accelerator within the LCFCC is now at the end of its operational life and urgently requires replacement.

A Linear Accelerator is indispensable for cancer treatments, offering image-guided radiotherapy that facilitates precise and efficient treatment delivery. The urgency of replacing this vital piece of equipment cannot be overstated; it is imperative to ensure the continued provision of life-saving treatments for our patients. A new, state-of-the-art Linear Accelerator will not only enhance treatment outcomes but also reduce treatment times, significantly improving the patient experience and quality of life.

The Leonard C. Ferguson Cancer Center has experienced a substantial 39% increase in overall radiation oncology visits from 2022 to 2023, underscoring the pressing need for a new Linear Accelerator. This increase not only reflects the growing demand for cancer care but also highlights the profound impact that timely access to advanced treatment technology can have on patients and their families. FHN serves a patient population exceeding 100,000 individuals, a significant portion of whom reside in rural areas. Given our status as the sole Cancer Center in Northwest Illinois, it's imperative to note that rural patients face considerable challenges accessing specialized care. Without the Leonard C. Fergusson Cancer Center (LCFCC) these patients would be forced to endure journeys of over an hour to reach the nearest alternative cancer facility. This travel would take place every day for several weeks over the course of treatment. Thus, patents would be subjected to long car trips when side effects of therapies are unmonitored. By providing cutting-edge cancer care closer to home in Freeport, we alleviate the burden of travel for patients, particularly those from underserved and rural communities who face challenges accessing healthcare services. Moreover, the acquisition of a new Linear Accelerator will usher in a new era of treatment possibilities, incorporating advanced technologies that were previously unavailable, thus significantly improving healthcare outcomes for our patients.