Mercy Health Foundation Southeast will present the “Kings & Queens of London Journey Gala 2025” this month, benefiting the Mercy Cancer Center – Cape Girardeau.  

Guests and sponsors will enjoy an elegant evening, dining like royalty on Saturday, Jan. 18, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Drury Plaza Conference Center, 3351 Percy Drive, Cape Girardeau. The ninth-annual benefit also includes silent and live auctions, raffles, entertainment from Cape Specialty Entertainment Group, a cirque acts group, and live music from Shades of Soul. Guests are encouraged to “polish their crowns” and “prepare their finest attire” for this black-tie optional event.  

Each year, the Journey Gala changes “locations” with its around-the-world themes. Past years have “traveled” to Italy, Morocco, Brazil, France, Japan and more to benefit the Mercy Health Foundation Southeast Cancer Care Fund, which provides essential services for patients in need, including transportation, lodging, nutritional supplements and medication assistance.  

“We have been so grateful for the overwhelming support the community has shown for the Journey Gala over the last eight years,” said Darah Jirkovsky, Mercy Health Foundation Southeast director. “We are grateful to everyone who attends, because they are helping support those living with cancer right here in Southeast Missouri. It’s going to be an amazing evening of entertainment and a wonderful celebration.”  

Chairs for this year’s gala are Sara Crocker, Victoria Moon and Jeanette Austin. Since the event began in 2017, $1.4 million in proceeds have helped cancer patients in need.  

Gala tickets are available for purchase at $250 each. Corporate sponsorships are also available. Event sponsors will have the opportunity to attend a VIP reception prior to the event. Learn more about sponsorships or purchase tickets online at mercyhealthfoundation.net/journeygala or by calling Mercy Health Foundation Southeast at 573-519-4922.