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Warrensburg, MO — Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) is excited to share an update on its Empower Through Early Detection initiative, a hospital-led project aimed at expanding access to advanced breast imaging technology and strengthening early detection of breast cancer for women in Johnson County and surrounding communities.
WMMC has been focused on improving cancer care by bringing in new providers, expanding services, offering community education, and adding advanced technology. This work has helped the hospital’s cancer program grow significantly.
More than 10 years ago, WMMC started Ladies Night Out, an event celebrating survivors and promoting early detection. The success of that event showed there was a big need for new mammogram and ultrasound machines, which led to the launch of the Empower Through Early Detection initiative.
The project includes a Fujifilm ASPIRE Cristalle 3D Mammography System, which is now fully operational. This state-of-the-art machine makes mammograms faster, more accurate, and more comfortable, helping doctors detect cancer earlier. The expansion also includes another Fujifilm 3D mammography system with stereotactic biopsy capabilities and a Samsung RS85 Prestige Ultrasound Machine.
Fujifilm ASPIRE Cristalle 3D Mammography System
The campaign has raised about 72% of its $855,000 goal, with $235,693.88 still to raise. The WMMC Foundation is working with the hospital to engage the community and help reach the remaining goal. These new machines will reduce wait times, improve patient comfort, and strengthen life-saving early detection.
“Completing this milestone and advancing funding for the project is an important moment for our hospital and the patients we serve,” said Darinda Dick, President and CEO of WMMC. “This initiative was launched because we saw a critical need in our community for earlier detection of breast cancer. It reflects WMMC’s commitment to providing exceptional, life-saving care, and we are grateful for the community’s support and the Foundation’s partnership as we work to fully complete this vital project.”
Breast cancer survivor Suzanne Brown shared her story at the Foundation’s recent Fire & Ice Gala, illustrating the real-life impact of early detection. “If I had delayed my mammogram, my outcome could have been very different,” Brown said. “Early detection made all the difference for me.”
WMMC is eager to complete the initiative to ensure that comprehensive, life-saving breast cancer diagnostics are available locally. For more information about the project or to get involved, visit wmmc.com/Empower or contact the WMMC Foundation at [email protected].
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.