More than 100 people—including cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and supporters — gathered on April 5, at the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center in Kakaʻako for the launch of the new Cancer C.A.R.E. Community. The initiative, which stands for Community, Awareness, Research and Emotional Well-Being, is the center’s first public-facing support network. It offers free quarterly events and services to empower and connect those affected by cancer.
The launch featured talks by UH Cancer Center Director Naoto T. Ueno, a two-time cancer survivor; Jami Fukui, oncologist and co-faculty director of Community Outreach and Engagement; and Susan Hirano, a stage-4 metastatic breast cancer “thriver” and founder of the Cancer C.A.R.E. Community. Attendees also joined small-group discussions and watched a performance by Nā Wahine Hula ʻĀkala, the center’s hula hālau of cancer survivors.
In a surprise announcement, the program was renamed the Susan C. Hirano Cancer C.A.R.E. Community in honor of its founder. As family and staff draped her in lei, Hirano and others were moved to tears.
“Countless people told me, ‘Yes, this is what we need,’” Hirano said. “It makes my heart happy. This is something I can give back to the community and help them feel better about their own journey.”
“We’re so excited about the turnout,” said Fukui. “It just shows how important this program is and how much the community needs it. We can learn from one another and support each other through a very complex and difficult time.”
The UH Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. The next event is scheduled for Saturday, July 5. Learn more about the program.
