The annual Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing returned to Deerfield Golf Club this fall, bringing together community members, volunteers and healthcare leaders in support of the Bayhealth Cancer Institute. The event continues a tradition rooted in gratitude, generosity and a shared commitment to advancing cancer care in Delaware.
Founded by grateful patient Stephanie Keys, the golf outing began as a personal effort to give back to the caregivers and institution that supported her during her cancer journey. Over time, it has grown into a community-driven fundraiser benefiting the Bayhealth Cancer Institute, reinforcing the powerful connection between patients, providers and local partners.
Keys developed close relationships with members of her care team throughout treatment, including Sandi Voss, a longtime Cancer Center team member who has volunteered and played an integral role in planning this year’s tournament. That spirit of collaboration and appreciation has remained at the heart of the event.
“Stephanie’s connection to her caregivers inspired her to take action in a remarkable way,” said Chuck Desch, Bayhealth Foundation director of development. “This event was a testament to the strength of those relationships and her desire to give back to the place that cared for her.”
Although Keys lives in New Castle County, she chose to receive her care through Bayhealth, and her community followed her lead. Over the past three years, she remained deeply involved with the outing, volunteering and attending annually. Family members, friends and a growing network of supporters rallied around the cause, helping the tournament expand its reach and impact.
“The passion this group brought was what made the event so unique,” Desch said. “They cared deeply about ensuring people in Delaware had access to exceptional cancer care.”
Community partners also played a vital role in the outing’s success. Support from local businesses, including the team from Twisted Irons Craft Brewing in Newark, helped build momentum and broaden community engagement.
One of the most meaningful moments from past tournaments occurred when the Bayhealth Foundation presented Keys with a replica plaque recognizing the gifts generated through the event. Proceeds from the Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing were used to name a chemotherapy pod at Bayhealth Hospital Kent Campus, creating a lasting tribute to Keys’ generosity and commitment.
Bayhealth sponsors a team in the tournament each year, and Foundation leaders say the partnership with Keys and her supporters continues to be a point of pride.
“We are enormously grateful to Stephanie and everyone who dedicates their time and energy to making this outing successful each year,” said John Shevock, executive director of Bayhealth Cancer Institute and senior director of operations for the oncology service line. “When the community stands behind cancer care, great things happen.”
Participants described the event as well-organized and engaging, with opportunities to connect, compete and contribute to a meaningful cause. Community members interested in future outings—as golfers, volunteers or sponsors—are encouraged to connect with event organizers or the Bayhealth Foundation.
Events such as the Drive Out Cancer Golf Outing play a vital role in strengthening cancer care across the region, helping ensure patients can access high-quality services close to home.
“The partnership between Stephanie, the Bayhealth Foundation and the Bayhealth Cancer Institute highlights the power of gratitude and community,” Shevock said. “We are thankful for everyone who makes this event possible year after year.”
For more information about supporting cancer care initiatives, visit Bayhealth.org/Foundation
Bayhealth’s mission is to strengthen the health of the community, one life at a time. Central and southern Delaware’s largest healthcare system, Bayhealth includes hospitals in Kent and Sussex counties, emergency and urgent care centers, and numerous outpatient and specialty practices. Bayhealth is affiliated with Penn Medicine for cardiothoracic surgery and is a member of the Penn Cancer Network.
