The Lexington Cancer Foundation has now given the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center a total of $5 million. This marks the fulfillment of the foundation’s financial commitment to the Markey Cancer Center.
Lexington Cancer Foundation fulfils commitment to cancer facility
With a gift of $1.2 million, the Lexington Cancer Foundation has fulfilled its commitment of donating $5 million to the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center. The Foundation presented the cheque during a UK women’s basketball game on Feb 15.
Proceeds from the Andrea Bocelli concert, which was held at Rupp Arena in December 2025, largely funded the donation. It will financially boost the construction of the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building.
As a result, the building, which is currently under construction, will serve as the new home of the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center. The new building will be pivotal in increasing access to treatment, improving patients’ outcomes, and supporting research for patients.
Also, Brenda Rice, founder and chair of the Lexington Cancer Foundation, was pleased with the completion of the donation to the cancer centre. She believes it will usher in a new era of improved cancer research and treatment.
“The Lexington Cancer Foundation’s mission is to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families throughout the Commonwealth,” she said.
However, the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building with a 2400-space car park is due for completion in 2027. The new building will bring together all of Markey’s services, which are currently separated, under one roof. This provides convenience for patients and will help foster collaboration among researchers and clinicians.
UK Healthcare provides critical services in Kentucky
The UK Markey Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated center in Kentucky. It gives patients access to the latest treatments and clinical trials that only NCI centres offer.
Moreover, the Cancer Center is part of the University of Kentucky Healthcare’s larger network of hospitals and clinics. About 10,000 healthcare workers make up UK Healthcare. They provide subspecialty care for critical injuries and illnesses.
Additionally, UK Healthcare has a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit that cares for small and sick newborns. It is the region’s only Level 1 trauma centre.
Donations to these healthcare facilities are very important because they ensure their continuous functioning. It also helps ensure access to critical health services for those who need them.