John Lee Memorial Benefit Raises Funds for EJGH Breast Care Center

The John Lee Memorial Benefit, in conjunction with The Foundation at East Jefferson General Hospital, raised nearly $16,000 for the EJGH Breast Care Center during the group’s annual fundraiser in April.

John Lee, Sr. passed away in 1986 at the young age of 58 from colon cancer. But before his passing, he initiated the John J. Lee benefit to raise funds for cancer research and treatment at East Jefferson General Hospital. Today, his family keeps his legacy alive through different fundraisers that benefit a number of oncology programs at EJGH.

“The John Lee Memorial Benefit holds a special place in my heart because it continues a tradition that my grandfather started thirty years ago,” said Ashley Schepens, Lee’s granddaughter. “Raising money to support cancer research and treatment at EJGH was a cause that was important to him. What better way to keep his memory alive than to raise money in his honor for EJGH and continue the fight against cancer. The benefit this year was a great success and we are so appreciative of our friends and family who helped. We are already looking forward to 2017 and beyond to continue to grow the benefit and contribute to this great hospital.”

Friends and family gathered at the Toth Den in New Orleans to raise funds for the cause during a night filled with cocktails, cuisine, silent auctions, and a special performance by the New Orleans Arrythmia’s, a band made up of EJGH’s own.

With the money raised from the event, the Breast Care Center will undergo a much-needed renovation and expansion scheduled to open up later this month. The center will obtain an additional 3D mammography machine, expanded waiting areas, and a much-improved patient experience.

To learn more about The Foundation or the John Lee Memorial Benefit, visit ejgh.org/community/foundationgiving.