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Warrensburg, MO — Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) is proud to announce the successful completion of its Empower Through Early Detection campaign, reaching its $855,000 fundraising goal to support the expansion of advanced breast imaging technology at WMMC.
The campaign reached its fundraising goal following an anonymous $50,000 gift, which provided the final funding needed to complete the donor-supported portion of the project. Launched in 2024, the hospital-led initiative was created to expand breast imaging capabilities and strengthen early detection services for patients throughout the region.
Community support played a vital role in reaching this milestone, including a generous commitment from Rich and Debbie Lawson during WMMC’s 2026 Day of Giving. Their dollar-for-dollar matching gift doubled community contributions and helped accelerate fundraising efforts throughout the campaign.
The final phase of the project includes the purchase of a second Fujifilm 3D mammography system with stereotactic biopsy capabilities, bringing stereotactic breast biopsy services back to WMMC. Installation of the remaining equipment is scheduled for fall 2026.
Once installation is complete, the Empower Through Early Detection project will include:
- A Fujifilm ASPIRE Cristalle 3D Mammography System, currently serving patients.
- A second Fujifilm 3D mammography system with stereotactic biopsy capabilities.
- A Samsung RS85 Prestige Ultrasound System, currently serving patients.
Together, these technologies will enhance WMMC’s ability to provide advanced breast imaging services, improve patient experience, and support earlier diagnosis and treatment.
“At WMMC, we’ve made a very intentional investment in strengthening breast cancer care because we’ve seen the growing need within our community,” said Darinda Dick, President and CEO of WMMC. “As demand for breast imaging services has increased, we recognized the need to expand our capabilities and invest in advanced technology that supports earlier detection and better patient care. This campaign reflects our ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of our community, and we are grateful to every donor who partnered with us to help make this important investment possible.”
The WMMC Foundation partnered with the hospital throughout the campaign by helping engage donors and connect community members with this important healthcare initiative.
“We are incredibly thankful to everyone who supported the Empower Through Early Detection campaign,” said Tara Carlyle, Executive Director of the WMMC Foundation. “Every contribution helped bring this project closer to completion. We are especially grateful to our anonymous donor, whose generous gift allowed us to cross the finish line and complete our fundraising goal, as well as to Rich and Debbie Lawson for their matching gift, which inspired additional community support. The impact of this generosity will be felt by patients for years to come.”
While the campaign’s fundraising goal has been reached, WMMC’s commitment to investing in healthcare advancement continues. There will always be opportunities to strengthen services, expand technology, and support the evolving needs of patients and families throughout the region. WMMC and the WMMC Foundation are working together to identify future initiatives where community support can help advance the hospital’s mission.
WMMC will celebrate the completion of the Empower Through Early Detection project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony following installation of the remaining equipment in fall 2026. Additional details will be announced as plans are finalized.
WMMC extends its sincere appreciation to every donor, volunteer, community partner, and advocate who helped make the Empower Through Early Detection campaign a success. Their investment represents a lasting commitment to the future of healthcare in our community.
For more information about the Empower Through Early Detection campaign or future healthcare initiatives, contact the WMMC Foundation at [email protected] or (660) 262-7456.
About Western Missouri Medical Center
Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) is a fully accredited, county-owned healthcare system based in Warrensburg, Missouri, proudly serving Johnson County and surrounding communities. As an independent, not-for-profit medical center, WMMC is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care.
WMMC provides a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency and time-critical care, obstetrics, surgical services, primary and specialty care, rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging. With a strong focus on patient experience, clinical excellence, and community health, WMMC continues to invest in advanced technology, dedicated providers, and innovative services to meet the evolving needs of the region. Learn more at wmmc.com and follow Western Missouri Medical Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
About the WMMC Foundation
The Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) Foundation is dedicated to supporting the mission of WMMC by raising funds for critical initiatives and technology that enhance patient care in Johnson County and surrounding communities. Through events, outreach, and donor engagement, the Foundation partners with the hospital to bring life-saving programs and advanced healthcare services to the local community. Learn more at wmmc.com/Foundation.