Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford has transformed the lives of thousands of patients battling cancer across northern Mississippi. 

For more than two decades, this facility has provided critical diagnostic and treatment services to people who might otherwise have traveled great distances to receive care. 

But beyond its cutting-edge technology and dedicated medical professionals, what truly sets the center apart is its commitment to removing the strain of some financial stressors, transportation issues and access to basic supportive services.

Thanks to two special patient assistance funds — one named in honor of the center’s earliest champions, Jerry and Mary Lexa, and the other focused exclusively on breast cancer support — Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford ensures that care is not just available, but accessible to those who need it most.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, access to cancer treatment in the Oxford area was limited. Patients diagnosed with cancer had to travel to Memphis or Tupelo — a burden that was both physically and financially taxing.

Seeing this unmet need, the Lexas took it upon themselves to advocate for change. They attended every Mississippi State Board of Health meeting for over a year, campaigning for the approval of a certificate of need for a local cancer center. In a true grassroots effort, they distributed surveys to churches and civic clubs, gathering data on how far people had to travel for care, the financial toll it took, and whether anyone had been unable to receive treatment because of these barriers.

Their tireless advocacy paid off. 

Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford opened its doors in 2002. Over the past twenty years, it has expanded twice and now serves more than 1,100 patients a month from over 17 surrounding counties.

Tragically, both of the Lexas have since passed, but their legacy continues to touch lives every single day.

Cancer treatment involves more than chemotherapy, radiation, and scans. It often involves a host of financial and logistical challenges. This is where the Mary and Jerry Lexa Patient Assistance Fund makes a life-changing difference.

“The funds are used strictly for patient care,” said Vicki Ferguson, Regional Director of the Cancer Center. “We use them for education, transportation, gas cards, lodging, meals — even dental work that might be necessary before starting radiation. Every situation is different, and that’s why we have a committee that reviews each patient’s needs to determine how we can help.”

Many cancer patients face the sobering reality of daily treatments over multiple weeks — and some travel hours each day just to access that care. For patients from the Mississippi Delta and beyond, the cumulative cost of fuel, meals, and lost wages becomes a significant barrier. That’s especially true for patients who are unable to work during treatment.

These assistance funds often bridge the gap between hope and hardship. They help patients stay on schedule with their treatments without the added stress of figuring out how to pay for a tank of gas, a meal, or a night’s stay near the clinic.

In addition to the Lexa Fund, Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford also supports patients through a dedicated Breast Health Fund. This fund is used specifically for breast health education and screenings, such as free mammograms and ultrasounds for those who qualify.

Events throughout the year help replenish the fund, including walks organized by the Ole Miss Panhellenic Council and community-wide fundraising drives. These efforts raise both awareness and dollars, ensuring that women in the region have access to vital preventive care, regardless of their insurance or income status.

Keeping these funds going requires ongoing community support. Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford hosts several fundraising events annually to fuel both the Lexa Fund and the Breast Health Fund.

One standout event is the Smash Cancer Pickleball Tournament, which was held on April 11 this year.

“We’ve had people donate in honor of their physicians,” Ferguson said. “We also receive donations in memory of loved ones or just from people who want to make a difference. It all goes directly to the patients.”

Ferguson emphasized the need for assistance is constant and growing.

“Depending on the treatment a patient receives, some are coming here daily for weeks,” she said. “That’s a lot of travel, especially for those who are already struggling financially. Most aren’t working at that time. There’s always a need.”

How You Can Help

Donations can be made online at www.baptistfoundation.org, dropped off at the Center or mailed to Baptist Cancer Center-Oxford, 504 Azalea Drive, Suite A, Oxford, MS 38655.