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.
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.
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.
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!
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.