The Olympic Medical Center Foundation raised $165,000 at its 15th-annual Harvest of Hope dinner Saturday, Oct. 21, at Sunland Golf and Country Club, with most of the funds going towards the planned expansion of the OMC Cancer Center in Sequim.

Attendees also contributed $30,000 to fund the Cancer Center’s Patient Navigator program that provides basic living expenses for low income cancer patients.

The foundation also presented the Rick Kaps Award to long-time Foundation supporter Steve Oliver, who was the organization’s first president in 1985. The Kaps Award – named after the former Sequim High School basketball coach and educator who passed away from cancer – is presented annually to an organization or individual who has contributed to cancer and overall health care on the North Olympic Peninsula.

To date, the Olympic Medical Center Foundation has generated $440,000 as part of its capital campaign to raise money for the expansion project.

“We hope that many local people will become a part of this fundraising effort,” said Foundation Campaign Chair Bill Littlejohn of Sequim. “It’s an opportunity for people to leave a lasting legacy, and 100 percent of the monies raised will go towards the project. No funds will be used for administrative or fundraising costs. There will also be naming rights opportunities.”

The expansion will include additional clinical exam space, an expansion of the pharmacy, more infusion and chair space, and an education space that will allow for physicians and staff to explain the short and long term effects to patients and support them during difficult emotional times.

“It’s imperative that we raise money so that OMC can increase services in the Cancer Center,” foundation Executive Director Bruce Skinner said.

The number of patient visits at the Cancer Center has grown by 157 percent over the last 10 years, OMC officials said, and more growth is expected in the future.

“Due to people living longer and an aging baby boomer population, the number of incidents of cancer will rise,” OMC CEO Eric Lewis said.

Lewis said that the expansion will make the cancer center viable for the long term, and that it will enable OMC to recruit and retain the best physicians and other cancer professionals.

“It will literally save people’s lives,” he said.

The evening featured food prepared by local chef Kathryn Kitts from The Sweet Beginning Café in Sequim, and wine from Camaraderie Cellars of Port Angeles.

Persons who are interested in more information or in making a donation can call the OMC Foundation office at 360-417-7144 or email to bruce@omhf.org.