Jackson, WY – The tradition of turning a love of golf into life‑saving support continued this August when the Teton Pines community raised just over $130,000 for the St. John’s Health Foundation Cancer Center Campaign. The money will help fund the next phase of the foundation’s $25 million effort to bring radiation oncology services to St. John’s Health, easing the burden on patients who currently must travel long distances for treatment.
Decades of generosity
Since its inception in 2012, the annual Tee It Up event, organized by the Teton Pines Women’s Golf Association, has generated more than $1 million for oncology services at St. John’s Health. Past contributions have financed critical upgrades such as 3‑D mammography equipment, a new CT scanner, dedicated oncology treatment bays, and state‑of‑the‑art infusion chairs.
Community voices
“Cancer has touched so many of our lives, whether through our own experiences or those of people we love,” said Christine Wagner, president of the Teton Pines Women’s Golf Association. “For our members, Tee It Up is an opportunity to turn those personal experiences into something meaningful by helping ensure that others facing a cancer diagnosis have access to the care and support they deserve.”
Anna Olson, president of the St. John’s Health Foundation, expressed gratitude for the continued partnership. “We are incredibly grateful to the Teton Pines Women’s Golf Association, Teton Pines leadership, and every member, sponsor, volunteer, and donor who made this year’s event possible. Their dedication over the years has helped transform oncology services at St. John’s Health, and their continued generosity is helping shape what comes next for cancer care in our community.”
Why radiation oncology matters locally
For many patients in the Jackson area, receiving radiation therapy requires traveling several hours each day for weeks, adding emotional, physical, and financial strain to an already difficult time. By establishing a radiation oncology department at St. John’s Health, the foundation aims to keep patients closer to home, reduce travel costs, and provide timely, coordinated care.
Looking ahead
The $130,000 raised this year brings the campaign’s total to more than $1.13 million, a significant step toward the $25 million target. Organizers anticipate that future Tee It Up events will continue to draw support from golfers, sponsors, and community members who recognize the vital role of local philanthropy in advancing health care.
Residents who wish to contribute or learn more about upcoming fundraising opportunities can contact the Teton Pines Women’s Golf Association or the St. John’s Health Foundation directly.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
