Mercy Health Foundation Fort Smith has surpassed its $41 million fundraising goal for phase one of Mercy Health’s planned renovation and expansion of its oncology services.
The fundraising goal was met with the help of a recent $2 million challenge grant from the Mabee Foundation.
“Most everyone has had some experience with cancer, whether through a family member, friend or even their own personal health journey,” said Patrick Pendleton, executive director of Mercy Health Foundation Fort Smith. “Battling the disease alone is daunting enough, but struggling to access care is an added burden patients simply shouldn’t have to bear.”
Phase one includes renovation and expansion of more than 50,000 square feet of oncology clinical space on the west end of the main hospital campus. The project will consolidate most cancer services into one location, improving care coordination and patient experience while adding highly skilled clinicians to the River Valley, said Amy Fore, vice president of patient services at Mercy Fort Smith.
“I’m thrilled to share that since we began the project, we have already started building on our strong foundation of four medical oncologists, one radiation oncologist and two surgical oncologists by expanding these teams to add three additional medical oncologists and another radiation oncologist. And we’re not finished yet,” she said.
The expansion also includes significant technological upgrades, including a new state-of-the-art PET CT scanner, an ION robotic bronchoscopy system and up to three new linear accelerators to support advanced radiation therapy.
Initial site work began in July 2025, and the new cancer center is expected to be fully operational by July 2027. Once complete, Mercy will double patient capacity for medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation therapy and infusion services.
“Our community understands the need for expanded cancer care and has demonstrated tremendous support for this project, with signature investments from the Cherokee Nation, the state of Arkansas, the Mabee Foundation and numerous other individuals, businesses and foundations. Together, we’re ensuring that cancer patients have access to the quality cancer care they need and deserve,” Pendleton said.
Construction is being managed by St. Louis-based McCarthy with design by HKS of Dallas.
READ ALSO: Razorback Foundation Adds 2 to Leadership Team
