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.
Celebrating Our New CTS Leaders
Pacific Cancer Foundation recently trained 10 new leaders in the Cancer: Thriving & Surviving program. These certified leaders will soon be offering workshops to support survivors and caregivers in managing health, building resilience, and finding hope.
Your Voice Matters: Patients and Caregivers Help Shape the Future of Emotional Support at PCF
PCF is launching a series of Human-Centered Design Sessions. The first, on September 5, invites cancer patients and caregivers to help shape the future of emotional support services.
Support Pacific Cancer Foundation through Foodland’s Give Aloha Program
Support Pacific Cancer Foundation through Foodland’s Give Aloha program this September. Donate up to $249 at checkout with your Maika‘i card (Code: 78946), and Foodland will match a portion of your gift to help ensure no one in Maui County faces cancer alone.
Credit Unions of Maui Raise $35,000 for Pacific Cancer Foundation at 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
The Credit Unions of Maui hosted their 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at The Dunes at Maui Lani, raising $35,000 in support of Pacific Cancer Foundation. These funds will provide free services such as transportation, navigation, and emotional support for local families facing cancer.
Tee Off for a Cause: 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
This August, the Credit Unions of Maui will host their 10th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at The Dunes at Maui Lani—benefiting the Pacific Cancer Foundation. With net proceeds supporting cancer patients and families across Maui County, this beloved event brings together generosity, community, and a little friendly competition. Early bird registration is open through July 3!
100 Days Until Paddle for Life
More than a race or a challenge, Paddle for Life is a voyage of purpose. This October, over 450 paddlers will cross the ‘Au‘au Channel in honor of loved ones, raising critical funds for cancer patients and families across Maui County. Registration is open, teams are forming, and a new video from ʻOhana Films captures the spirit of this unforgettable journey. Watch now and join us.
Meet Aidan Rindfleisch: Strategic Development Intern
This summer, PCF welcomes Aidan Rindfleisch as our Strategic Development Intern. A senior at UW–Madison, Aidan brings experience in communications, project coordination, and strategic planning—and a genuine enthusiasm for community-centered work. From supporting our strategic plan to enhancing donor communications, he’s already making an impact.
Living On: How UVSC Brings Financial Relief and Hope to Families Facing Cancer
UVSC Executive Director Kandice Johns shares how financial assistance, cultural understanding, and strong community partnerships are helping cancer patients across Hawai‘i navigate the hidden costs of care. Through our partnership with UVSC, Pacific Cancer Foundation is ensuring that families in Maui County can access essential support with dignity and ease.
Donor Spotlight: Alysha Nichols-Sparkman
Maui Realtor Alysha Nichols-Sparkman has supported PCF for nearly a decade through heartfelt fundraising, community advocacy, and unwavering aloha. From paddling in Paddle for Life to amplifying our mission in her Good to be HOME magazine, Alysha continues to show what it means to give back. Registration for Paddle for Life 2025 opens next week—read her story and get inspired.
Celebrating 10 Years with PCF and a birthday wish
As she marks 10 years working with Pacific Cancer Foundation, Natalia Rogers shares a personal reflection on what makes PCF’s work so meaningful. In honor of her birthday, she’s raising funds to support the community that continues to inspire her every day.
A Ride Toward Healing: Roland’s Story
When Uncle Roland was diagnosed with cancer, he feared the worst. What he didn’t expect was the community of support that would carry him through—rides to treatment, listening ears, and the dream of getting back in the water.
Healing Through Expression: Art as a Pathway Back to Self
Discover how art, creativity, and self-expression became a pathway to healing for Tamara Catz—and how her new workshop, Healing Through Expression, offers that same space for individuals on the breast cancer journey.
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.