JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The McRight family made a significant gift to the It’s About Time Campaign for the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute (CCRI).
Concern for the families impacted by cancer in the state prompted the family to make the donation. The campaign is a philanthropic drive to build a new five-story, state-of-the-art cancer center at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC).
UMMC shares updates on Batson Tower, Clarke Center projects
In Mississippi, cancer is the second leading cause of death, accounting for one in five deaths, according to Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) statistics. The state leads the nation in cancer mortality, but cancer deaths vary by region. The mortality rate of all types of cancers in the Delta is 17% higher than in central Mississippi.
“It just goes on and on,” Johnny McRight said. “I’ve seen a lot, and I’m really passionate about that. It rings true to me. If we can do something to help, we ought to do that.”
According to officials, the contribution from the McRights will help the CCRI grow its research infrastructure, recruit top-tier physician-scientists and enhance programs focused on cancer prevention and early detection…