Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center Receives $500,000 Matching Gift from the Weakley Family Trust

The Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation is proud to announce a $500,000 matching gift from the Weakley Family Trust to support the purchase of a new Linear Accelerator (LINAC) at the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center. The gift, made in memory of Ken Weakley and in honor of the care he received, will double the impact of community donations and continue providing advanced, lifesaving radiation therapy to patients close to home.

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment, with nearly two-thirds of patients receiving it as part of their care. A Linear Accelerator (LINAC) delivers highly targeted radiation to tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This precision enhances treatment effectiveness, reduces side effects, and allows patients to maintain a higher quality of life throughout their cancer journey.

With the Weakley Family Trust’s matching gift, every dollar donated—up to $500,000—will be matched, accelerating the Foundation’s efforts to fund this critical technology. This initiative offers a meaningful opportunity for community members, especially those whose lives have been touched by the Cancer Center, to give back and ensure continued access to leading-edge care in the region.

“The Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation is immensely grateful for this incredible gift from the Weakley Family Trust,” said Karli Bunnell, Executive Director of Foundations.  “This is not their first major gift to our Cancer Center, but the fact that it is made in Ken’s honor truly moves us. We hope this gift inspires our community to support the Gene Upshaw Memorial Cancer Center and our quest to replace the LINAC, and continue to ensure that our Cancer Center has the highest quality equipment to serve our rural mountain community We are so grateful to the Weakleys for providing this incredible matching opportunity.”

The Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center partners with UC Davis to provide comprehensive oncology services, combining compassionate local care with the strengths of an academic health system. The affiliation formalizes the commitment to collaboration with community providers, promoting the delivery of first-rate care across the region.

The Foundation is also honored to welcome Lynne Weakley to its Board of Directors. A dedicated philanthropist and community advocate, Lynne’s leadership and commitment to healthcare will help guide the Foundation’s continued growth and impact.

Community members are invited to honor a loved one, recognize a caregiver, or express gratitude for the care received at the Cancer Center through a Grateful Patient gift. By giving in appreciation, you help ensure that advanced, compassionate cancer care remains available close to home for all who need it.

You can find more information or make a gift here.