Oncology center construction progressing

A weekend fundraiser will benefit Onslow Memorial Hospital’s planned Radiation Oncology Center.

When the center was announced in 2008, construction was expected to be completed in January of this year with the center — a joint venture between Onslow Memorial Hospital and Pitt County Memorial Hospital — in operation by March.

“It is slightly behind schedule with all the rain we’ve had, but in the grand scheme of things we’re doing really well,” said Tim Strickland, the spokesman for Onslow Memorial Hospital. “Barring any additional weather delays, we still think it will be open by late 2010 or early 2011 at the latest.”

Once it’s up and running, cancer patients will be able to receive radiation therapy at OMH versus having to drive to Greenville, New Bern or Wilmington for the treatment.

The 9,290-square-foot wing, being constructed by T.A. Loving, Inc. of Goldsboro, will be attached to the old emergency room entrance. Its total cost is estimated at $7.4 million — $3.6 million for the construction and the remainder for equipment, parking and other expenses.

Onslow Memorial Hospital Foundation raised $200,000 for the project in February through a gala event. Given that success, another OMH Foundation fundraiser is scheduled Saturday with a goal to raise an additional $100,000 for the center, said Heather Brooks, the foundation manager.

The tropical-themed Key West Island Fest gala will feature the Landsharks Band, a world-renowned Jimmy Buffet tribute group.

“The band is well known and has even been hired by Jimmy Buffet for parties,” Brooks said.

The menu will feature Caribbean-inspired fare and the cash bar will include frozen beverage machines in keeping with the tropical theme. Attendees are asked to don their best island attire.

Tickets are still available.

“Individual tickets are still available and we’re still squeezing in some sponsored tables … we’re trying to accommodate everyone we can,” said Brooks.

Area businesses, professionals, cancer survivors and civic groups can sponsor tables for $500 to $10,000 – each level providing permanent recognition in the new hospital wing and other set marketing and event seating benefits, said Brooks. Individual tickets are available for $75 each or $125 a pair. All of the evening’s proceeds benefit the OMH Foundation.

The event is being held at The American Legion Building located at 146 Broadhurst Road. Doors open at 6 p.m. beginning with hors d’oeuvres and an auction with various offerings including beach vacations, a chartered fishing trip, surf board, antiques and artwork.

For tickets, contact Lisamarie Ingram at 910-577-4732 or stop by 241 New River Drive in Jacksonville.

 For more information on sponsorship or the foundation, visit www.onslow.org or call Brooks at 910-577-2651.

Contact Suzanne Ulbrich at 910-219-8454 or sulbrich@freedomenc.com