Community Golf Outing Brings Continued Support to Bayhealth Cancer Care

The annual Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing supports the Bayhealth Cancer Institute and was founded by former patient Stephanie Keys as a way to give back. (Photo courtesy of Bayhealth.)

The annual Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing returned to Deerfield Golf Club this fall, continuing a community fundraising effort that began with one Bayhealth patient’s desire to give back.

Founded by Stephanie Keys, a former Bayhealth cancer patient, the tournament supports the Bayhealth Cancer Institute and has grown over several years with the help of family, friends and volunteers. Keys launched the outing after forming close relationships with her care team during treatment.

“Stephanie’s connection to her caregivers inspired her to take action in a remarkable way,” said Chuck Desch, Bayhealth Foundation director of development. “This event was a testament to the strength of those relationships and her desire to give back to the place that cared for her.”

Keys remained actively involved in the event for three years, volunteering and attending annually. Although she lived in New Castle County, Keys chose to receive care at Bayhealth, and supporters from her community followed her lead in backing the fundraiser.

“The passion this group brought was what made the event so unique,” Desch said. “They cared deeply about ensuring people in Delaware had access to exceptional cancer care.”

A group of dedicated volunteers helped sustain the outing, along with support from local businesses, including Twisted Irons Craft Brewing in Newark, which contributed to the event’s growth.

One of the most significant outcomes of the fundraiser was the naming of a chemotherapy pod at Bayhealth Hospital’s Kent Campus. Proceeds from the golf outing funded the designation, and the Bayhealth Foundation later presented Keys with a replica plaque recognizing the contributions made through the event.

Bayhealth sponsors a team in the outing each year, and foundation staff continue to participate alongside community members.

“We are enormously grateful to Stephanie and everyone who dedicates their time and energy to making this outing successful each year,” said John Shevock, executive director of the Bayhealth Cancer Institute and senior director of operations for the oncology service line. “When the community stands behind cancer care, great things happen.”

Organizers said the tournament was well attended and smoothly run, and they anticipate continued community involvement in future events.

“The partnership between Stephanie, the Bayhealth Foundation and the Bayhealth Cancer Institute highlights the power of gratitude and community,” Shevock said. “We are thankful for everyone who makes this event possible year after year.”

Support from events like the Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing helps fund cancer care services for Delaware residents, allowing patients to receive treatment close to home.