After Jason Jones of Jones Medical Supply bought a balloon in the balloon release fundraiser for Troy Regional Medical Center, he soon forgot about the event. Until he was told that his business had won the $1,000 prize.

“Honestly, I had kind of forgotten about the launch,” Jones said. “It was back in October when Troy University played South Alabama. We’ve been participating since it began.”

The fundraiser allows people, businesses and organizations to purchase $100 balloons for chances to win the $1,000 prize and to help raise funds for the Troy Regional Cancer Center. The person whose balloon that travels the farthest wins the prize. Jones’ balloon travelled all the way to Panama City Beach.

Even if his balloon had not travelled the farthest, Jones said the release is a worthy cause to get involved in.

“Anything the hospital can do as a fundraiser, we want to help in any way we can,” Jones said. “I don’t think the general public understands what it costs to run a hospital. They get no say-so in reimbursement for services, so they have to generate ways to make improvements. This year’s funds go to the new cancer center and they’ve got to find ways to generate revenue to do these things above and beyond everyday operations. I hope more people will get on board to help the hospital; it’s a very big part of this community.”

Ronnie Dean, TRMC CEO, explained more about the new cancer center.

“Dr. Thomas Brown, M.D., Hematology and Oncology specialist, has joined our staff at Troy Regional Medical Center as Medical Director,” Dean said. “With over 30 years of experience and having treated over 10,000 patients, Dr. Brown has begun seeing and treating patients in Troy; making the latest in cancer treatment accessible and close to home.”