From Caregiver to Patient Navigator: Andrea’s Story
Greetings PCF 'Ohana,
I am Andrea Bacos, your dedicated lay navigator at Pacific Cancer Foundation. My journey into understanding the role of a cancer navigator began on January 1, 2018, when my husband Lance received the devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 Liver, Lung, and Brain Cancer at Queen’s Hospital on O'ahu. This news shook the very foundation of our family, inundating us with a tsunami of emotions—fear, confusion, worry, and overwhelm. Within 48 hours, a team of 13 specialized doctors formed which became known as the Lance Bacos cancer team. My life quickly transformed into a whirlwind of sleepless nights, endless planning, and countless phone calls to doctors.
Then, one day, I received a call from Ms. Holly, introducing herself as our cancer navigator. Admittedly, I was unaware of what exactly a cancer navigator entailed, but it didn't take long for me to realize the invaluable support Ms. Holly provided. She became our earthly guardian angel, assisting me with everything from scheduling appointments to coordinating our week's travel arrangements. As a wife, a mother, and now my husband's full-time caregiver, with the aid of our cancer navigator, I managed to rebuild our shattered family foundation, providing stability for my husband and children to lean on.
Tragically, my husband lost his courageous battle with cancer on December 30, 2021. One of his final wishes was for me to extend the same help and support we received to other cancer-stricken families here on Maui.
In April 2022, I fulfilled a promise to my husband by joining the team at Pacific Cancer Foundation. In my role, I have the honor of sitting down with cancer patients and their families, getting to know them personally and understanding the obstacles they face during their cancer journey. As a navigator, I identify each patient's barriers and connect them with various community resources such as assistance with air and ground transportation, financial aid programs, insurance issues, food insecurity, nutritional support, monthly support groups, qigong classes, and coordinating with their team of doctors.
I have the privilege of sharing in their lives, experiencing moments of joy and laughter, as well as times of tears and concern. I believe that my role as their navigator offers them another shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, and arms for the occasional much-needed hug during their most challenging days.
As I honor the memory of my beloved husband Lance, I am deeply grateful and blessed to be able to walk alongside cancer patients and their families, guiding them through each step of their journey with compassion and support.
Aloha,
Andrea Bacos
Patient Navigator
Lance and I at Queen's Hospital when Lance first got diagnosed in January 2018.
Lance and I at Queen's Hospital after his 2nd round of chemo treatment.
Kids and I took my husband to Alaska to see snow for the very first time 2018 bucket list wish.
At Pacific Cancer Foundation, we believe that no one should have to face cancer alone. Every day, we are honored to walk alongside patients, caregivers, and families—offering guidance, support, and connection at every stage of the journey.
If you or someone you love is navigating cancer, we are here for you. Whether it’s assistance with transportation, financial aid, support groups, or simply a listening ear, our team is ready to help.
Connect with us today to learn more about our free services and resources:
Call us: 808-249-1623
Email us: navigator@pacificcancerfoundation.org
Visit us: 227 Mahalani St, Suite 99 (inside Pacific Cancer Institute)
Because at PCF, you are never alone.