The Kukui Journal
The Kukui Journal is our online blog, where we share ongoing stories, updates, and insights from the Pacific Cancer Foundation. From patient stories and program highlights to community partnerships and behind-the-scenes moments, this is where we shine a light on the resilience, connection, and impact of our work. Explore new posts each month and stay connected with the heart of our mission.
Beyond End-of-Life: How Hospice Maui is Redefining Support
Hospice Maui Executive Director Melanie Dwyer shares how palliative care, early support, and strong community partnerships are reshaping the future of serious illness care in Maui County. Through our partnership with Hospice Maui, Pacific Cancer Foundation is helping expand access to compassionate, community-centered care for families across Maui County.
"This House Was Always for Everyone": Trina’s Story of Healing and Homecoming
After facing cancer, loss, and overwhelming challenges, Trina Kalanikau found the strength to reach out—and discovered a community ready to lift her up. Through the Kōkua for Cancer project, Trina’s home and spirit were restored, reminding us that asking for help can open the door to healing, hope, and homecoming.
Woven Support: Expanding Palliative Care Across Maui County
A quiet but powerful shift is taking place across Maui County. Pacific Cancer Foundation and Hospice Maui are deepening their partnership to expand access to early palliative care, helping families receive comfort, guidance, and support much sooner in their health journeys. Together, we're building stronger bridges of care—so that no one faces serious illness alone.
Mālama Circle: A Gathering for Caregivers
Mālama Circle is a new monthly gathering from Pacific Cancer Foundation and Hospice Maui, created to support the caregivers in our community. Rooted in the spirit of mālama — “to take care” — this special event offers a space for rest, renewal, and connection. Registration is required and open to current PCF and Hospice Maui caregivers.
Wrapped in Aloha: How Quilts from Kula Bring Comfort to PCF Patients
For years, the women of Kula Catholic Quilt Ministries have lovingly donated handmade quilts to Pacific Cancer Foundation. These gifts of warmth and care are shared with patients undergoing chemotherapy and included in care packages across Maui County—each one a quiet expression of aloha.
Wailuku Federal Credit Union and Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Award $6,250 Grant to Pacific Cancer Foundation
Pacific Cancer Foundation is honored to receive a $6,250 grant from Wailuku Federal Credit Union and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. This support strengthens our mission to provide free cancer services to Maui County, ensuring no one faces cancer alone.
Nourishing hope and healing with Maui United Way
Thanks to Maui United Way's Māʻona Food Security Grant, PCF is helping cancer patients and caregivers access nourishing foods and nutritional counseling—providing essential support during treatment and recovery.
First Aid for Caregivers: CPR & Life-Saving Tips
On Thursday, April 10th, caregivers are invited to a specialized 4-hour workshop at the Cameron Center in Wailuku, led by Gordon Gillis of Safety Services Hawaii. Designed specifically for family members caring for cancer patients, this hands-on session will teach essential CPR and first aid techniques tailored to the unique needs of individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
Welcoming Shirley Ramey: Caregiver Support at PCF
We’re thrilled to welcome Shirley Ramey as a new PCF consultant, offering dedicated support to caregivers. She leads bi-monthly support sessions at Maui Coffee Attic, providing a welcoming space for caregivers to connect and share. Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome. Additionally, our patient navigators now offer one-on-one caregiver referrals for personalized support.
Honoring Gay McPhail Through Paddle for Life
In memory of Gay McPhail, friends and family have raised over $10,000 for Paddle for Life, ensuring that cancer patients in Maui County receive the support they need. Her love for the ocean lives on through this incredible event. Save the date—Paddle for Life returns on October 4-5, 2025!
Fitting Confidence with Nordstrom's Prosthesis Program
PCF proudly partners with the Nordstrom Ala Moana bra-fitting team to bring their exceptional Prosthesis Program to Maui. This initiative, led by Certified Prosthesis Fitters Rachel Endow and Amanda Dela Cruz, provides our clients with specialized bra fittings, breast forms, and other post-mastectomy essentials—all with the care and expertise that Nordstrom is known for. Here’s a closer look at what makes this program so impactful, and how Rachel and Amanda are making a difference in the lives of Maui’s cancer community.
From Caregiver to Patient Navigator: Andrea’s Story
"My journey into understanding the role of a cancer navigator began when my husband Lance received the devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 Liver, Lung, and Brain Cancer. Our family was hit with a tsunami of emotions—fear, confusion, worry, and overwhelm. Then, one day, I received a call from Ms. Holly, introducing herself as our cancer navigator.
She became our earthly guardian angel, assisting me with everything from scheduling appointments to coordinating travel. With her help, I managed to rebuild our shattered family foundation, providing stability for my husband and children to lean on.
One of Lance’s final wishes was for me to extend the same help and support we received to other cancer-stricken families here in Maui. Today, as a Patient Navigator at Pacific Cancer Foundation, I am honored to walk alongside cancer patients and their families, guiding them with compassion and support."
Read Andrea’s full story and learn more about PCF’s Patient Navigator program.
Kōkua for Cancer: A Community Comes Together to Rebuild Hope
When Trina Kalanikau, a single mom and cancer survivor, found herself living in unsafe conditions, the Maui community stepped in. Through the Kōkua for Cancer project, local businesses and volunteers came together to restore her home—bringing not just repairs, but renewed hope. From fixing fire-damaged walls to rebuilding her sense of security, this collaboration is a testament to the power of aloha in action.
Virtual Office Hours: Let’s Connect
Connect with our Patient Navigators from anywhere. Join our virtual office hours every other Tuesday for guidance on treatment, resources, and support—no special software required.
Monthly Prosthesis Fittings with Nordstrom
In partnership with Nordstrom Ala Moana, PCF brings Certified Prosthesis Fitters to Maui each month, ensuring comfort and confidence for individuals navigating their cancer journey. Schedule your free fitting today.
Going the Extra Mile with John Hamilton
For many of our patients, getting to treatment is one of the hardest parts of their cancer journey. Uber driver John Hamilton has become more than just a ride—he’s a source of comfort, care, and connection. Read how he goes the extra mile for Maui’s cancer community.
Welcoming Jenny Worth
We are thrilled to welcome Jenny Worth as PCF’s new Executive Director during this milestone 20th year. With a deep passion for supporting Maui’s cancer community, Jenny is ready to lead us into this next chapter of growth, connection, and hope.
Celebrating 20 Years
This year marks two decades since the Pacific Cancer Foundation was founded. As we celebrate 20 years of service, we reflect on the resilience of our clients, the dedication of our team, and the generosity of our community.