Douglas County approves $1M for cancer care equipment at Castle Rock Adventist Hospital

In a pivotal meeting held on January 28, 2025, the Douglas County Commissioners took a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access in the region by approving a $1,000,000 beneficiary agreement with the AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Foundation. This funding will be directed towards the acquisition and installation of a Vision RT radiation therapy system at Castle Rock Adventist Hospital, a crucial development for cancer care in Central and Southern Douglas County.

Dan Avery, the special projects manager for county administration, presented the proposal, emphasizing its importance for local residents who currently lack access to comprehensive cancer treatment. The initiative is expected to create approximately 50 medical and surgical jobs, contributing an estimated $5 million in annual wages and generating up to $240,000 in local taxes. The total project cost is projected at $14 million, with the county's contribution unlocking an additional $1 million in matching funds from private donations.

Marcy Blair, chair of the AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Foundation and a cancer survivor herself, expressed heartfelt gratitude during the meeting. She highlighted the critical need for local cancer care, sharing her personal experience of traveling for treatment. Her testimony resonated with the commissioners, who acknowledged the profound impact this facility will have on the community.

Commissioner Van Winkle, who moved to approve the agreement, reflected on the emotional weight of the decision, noting that cancer affects nearly every family in the community. His sentiments were echoed by fellow commissioners, who recognized the importance of bringing essential healthcare services closer to home.

The unanimous approval of this agreement marks a significant milestone for Douglas County, reinforcing the commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and supporting the well-being of its residents. As the community looks forward to the establishment of this vital cancer care facility, the commissioners' decision stands as a testament to their dedication to public health and economic growth in the region.