More {{ vm.segmentName}} News
View All {{ vm.segmentName }} News
UPDATE Jan. 21, 2026: Due to the forecasted winter storm expected to impact our communities, Mercy Health Foundation Southeast has made the difficult decision to postpone the 2026 Journey Gala originally scheduled for Saturday, January 24.
The safety of our guests, volunteers and community is our highest priority. We are grateful for your understanding and for the incredible support you show each year to help local cancer patients through the Mercy Cancer Center – Cape Girardeau.
The planned new date for the 2026 Journey Gala will be Saturday, May 9. Any current ticket purchases and sponsorships will be transferred. If you have questions, please contact the Foundation at 573‑519‑4920.
Thank you for your continued support! Please stay safe during the upcoming winter weather.
Mercy Health Foundation Southeast will present the “My Big Greek Gala” Journey Gala 2026 this month, benefiting Mercy Cancer Center – Cape Girardeau.
Guests and sponsors will enjoy an evening celebrating the strength of community, the power of giving and the rich spirit of Greek culture on Saturday, Jan. 24, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Drury Plaza Conference Center, 3351 Percy Drive, Cape Girardeau. The 10th annual benefit also includes silent and live auctions, raffles and entertainment from Jessica Haas, a speed painter who has been featured on national television and has worked with Major League Baseball, ESPN, FedEx, Google and many more. Guests will also enjoy live music from Breakdown Shakedown at this black-tie optional event.
Each year, the Journey Gala changes “destinations” with its around-the-world themes. Past years have “traveled” to London, Italy, Brazil, France, Japan and more to benefit the Mercy Health Foundation Southeast Cancer Care Fund, which provides essential services for cancer patients in need, including transportation, lodging, nutritional supplements and medication assistance. Funds also support the Foundation’s continued investment in advanced technologies, treatments and programs to improve cancer care in the community.
“We are truly thankful for the incredible support our community has shown for the Journey Gala over the last nine years,” said Darah Jirkovsky, Mercy Health Foundation Southeast director. “Every attendee plays a vital role in helping those living with cancer right here in Southeast Missouri. We’re looking forward to an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment and celebration.”
Chairs for this year’s gala are Sara Crocker and Victoria Moon. Since the first Journey Gala in 2017, $1.7 million in proceeds have been raised to help Southeast Missouri cancer patients in need.
Gala tickets are available for purchase at $250 each. Corporate sponsorships are also available. Event sponsors will have the opportunity to attend a VIP reception prior to the event. Learn more about sponsorships or purchase tickets online at mercyhealthfoundation.net/journeygala or by calling Mercy Health Foundation Southeast at 573-519-4922.
