Published on June 19, 2025
Capturing the Moment: A Night of Love, Laughter and Lasting Memories
Owensboro, Ky. – June 19, 2025 – Surrounded by the vibrant blooms of the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, patients, survivors and families gathered June 12 for an evening of celebration, connection and healing at the 4th annual Capturing the Moment event, hosted by Owensboro Health Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center and the Owensboro Health Foundation.
This year’s gathering brought together nearly 70 patients and more than 200 family members and friends. With the help of 60 volunteers and 10 professional photographers, the evening captured far more than portraits. It captured joy. Resilience. And moments that matter.
“Getting to see our patients outside of the Cancer Center, smiling and surrounded by family, is good for our hearts,” said Allison Dugas, oncology nurse navigator. “This is one of those nights that reminds us why we do what we do.”
More than a photo session, Capturing the Moment has grown into a cherished tradition. Guests strolled the garden paths to the soothing sound of harpist Emily Fife, enjoyed refreshing Hello Pop popsicles and watched children light up with balloon animals and face paint. Golf cart rides made the garden accessible to all.
The event was originally inspired by Dr. Megan B. Nelson, who understood the deep emotional value of having tangible memories during a cancer journey. Her vision was brought to life at Owensboro Health thanks to a passionate team of caregivers and community partners.
“We never know when our last day will be,” said Kim Prater, BSN, RN, OCN. “Many special memories are made here—captured in photos that become treasures for generations. This is our favorite event of the year.”
The entire provider team from the Hematology/Oncology office and a radiation oncologist attended the event, standing alongside patients and families as a sign of the strong bond that forms throughout treatment.
Staff members say Capturing the Moment reflects the culture at Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center, one rooted in compassion, connection and community.
“Every year, this event reminds us that healing goes beyond medicine,” said Prater. “It’s about love, dignity and taking time to make memories.”
The Owensboro Health Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center and Foundation plan to host Capturing the Moment again next summer.
For more information or to get involved, call 270-688-LIVE (5483).
About Owensboro Health
Owensboro Health is a nonprofit health system with a mission to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities it serves in Kentucky and Indiana. The system includes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, nationally recognized for design, architecture and engineering; Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital; Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center; the Owensboro Health Medical Group comprised of over 350 providers at more than 30 locations; four outpatient Healthplex facilities, a certified medical fitness facility, the Healthpark; a weight management program, and the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center.
On average each year, we have more than 19,000 inpatient admissions, deliver 2,000 babies and provide the region’s only Level III NICU. Owensboro Health physicians perform nearly 33,000 surgical procedures, including nearly 150 open-heart surgeries. Our physicians and staff have 90,000 Emergency Department visits and more than 1.25 million outpatient visits annually. Visit our home page for more information.