Published: July 01, 2026
Avita Health System Unveils the Jody M. Baker Cancer Center
On Friday, June 19, 2026, Avita Health System celebrated the official unveiling of the Jody M. Baker Cancer Center at the Avita Ontario South Campus. The 20,000-square-foot facility, dedicated on October 18, 2025, fulfills a long-term goal to provide state-of-the-art oncology care close to home.
The naming of the cancer center honors Jody M. Baker, who passed away on July 11, 2022, after a courageous 25-year battle with cancer. This lasting legacy is made possible by a generous donation from Randy and Lisa Payne of Mansfield – brother-in-law and sister of Jody Baker.
A Milestone Ceremony
The unveiling ceremony brought together the Baker and Payne families, Avita leadership, and members of the oncology team. Avita Health Foundation Board Chair Matt Horn and Dr. Jeffrey VanDeusen spoke to attendees about the project’s early impacts and innovations. The new facility provides a single, accessible location for comprehensive care, featuring advanced treatments like Ohio’s first Varian RapidArc® Dynamic Technology to reduce radiation exposure. Curtis Baker, son of the late Jody Baker, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the families. “The Jode,” as it is affectionately known, will serve as a beacon of hope and healing for patients throughout rural Ohio.
Supporting the Campaign
Chuck Cangelosi, Chief Development Officer of the Avita Health Foundation, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Baker and Payne families for their visionary support. With nearly $10 million raised, the Campaign for Avita is currently raising funds to complete the Healing & Memorial Garden, enhance Hospice & Survivorship Programs, and introduce new patient innovations. For more information on how to support “The Jode” and its programs, or to contribute to newly established endowment funds supporting cancer care, please contact Chuck Cangelosi via email at ccangelosi@avitahs.org or donate online today.