ILLUMINATING STORIES AND SUPPORT FOR MAUI’S CANCER COMMUNITY
Hope in Action: The Power of Community Support
Dear PCF ‘Ohana,
When someone is diagnosed with cancer, the journey ahead can feel overwhelming and uncertain. But time and time again, I’ve seen how hope becomes action when our community steps forward to support one another.
In this issue, you’ll meet Trina—a single mom and breast cancer survivor whose home was transformed thanks to the incredible kōkua of the Loque ‘Ohana, Habitat for Humanity Maui, and many others. You’ll also get to know Uncle Roland, whose strength and gratitude shine through as he shares how PCF’s transportation services helped him get to life-saving treatments.
These are just two of the many stories
that remind me why I do this work. As a patient navigator, I have the honor of walking beside our clients during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Sometimes that means helping with flights to O‘ahu. Sometimes it’s a ride to treatment, a gas card, or just sitting down to talk story. Every act of support—big or small—makes a difference.
And none of it would be possible without you. Whether you’re a donor, a partner, a volunteer, or someone seeking support, you are part of our PCF ‘ohana. Mahalo for being with us on this journey.
With aloha and deep gratitude, Andrea Bacos Patient Navigator
Want to dive deeper into these stories?
The Kukui Journal is our online storytelling space where we share ongoing stories, updates, and insights from the Pacific Cancer Foundation. From client journeys 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.
Each month, we feature: Shining Bright –Stories of hope and perseverance. Taking Root – Updates on the growth of our programs.
Branching Out – The partnerships that make it all possible.
Stay connected with the heart of our mission.
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The Loque ‘Ohana in front of PCF client Trina’s home before renovations began.
A Ride Toward Healing: Roland’s Story
For many cancer patients in Maui County, the hardest part of treatment isn’t always what happens in the doctor’s office—it’s getting there. At the Pacific Cancer Foundation, our transportation program is more than just logistics. It’s a lifeline. A warm conversation on the road, a helping hand in unfamiliar territory, and a reminder that no one should walk—or ride—this path alone.
When Roland Pergatorio first heard the word “cancer,” he was terrified. “The little I knew about cancer, when you say cancer you think of death.” But he chose to face his diagnosis with faith and optimism. “Okay Lord, here we go. This is a journey.”
“By the grace of God, I met Andrea.” That moment shifted everything. Andrea Bacos, PCF’s Patient Navigator, saw him coming out of radiation one day. “I could see his sadness. I could see his worry, and I could see him being scared.” It didn’t take long for them to connect. “We talked, and that was life changing,” Roland said. “Lots of local style like ‘Where you from? What you do?’ So funny. We just hit it off. It was like talking to my sister.”
When Roland shared that he couldn’t afford to travel for treatment, Andrea didn’t hesitate. “We’re going to take care of your
PCF ‘ohana
weighing him down.
For many patients like Roland, specialized tests or therapies mean flying to O‘ahu, often with a caregiver by their side. Flights, ground transportation, and lodging can quickly become major barriers. That’s why PCF’s transportation program is so critical—because getting to treatment shouldn’t be the hardest part of healing.
A lifelong waterman and surfer, Roland’s greatest wish is to return to the ocean. “I’m grateful for life, thankful that I’m breathing and I can hear the birds. I plan to live a long, happy life—and get back in the water.”
Roland’s journey reflects what many patients across Maui County face every day. From remote communities like Hāna and
air and ground transportation.”
Through PCF’s transportation program, Roland made it to appointments both on and offisland—without the burden of cost
Lahaina, the road to treatment can be long—over 40 miles, sometimes more than two hours each way.
People like John Hamilton help bring those rides to life. John is
a local Uber driver who became part of our extended ‘ohana. “Every kūpuna is ‘Aunty’ or ‘Uncle,’ every keiki is ‘Sweetie’ or ‘Bub,’ and peers are ‘Braddah’ or ‘Sista,’” John said. “I always take the time to talk story to ease any awkwardness or nervousness.” He makes sure patients ride up front. “I want it to feel like a friend giving them a lift. If they need to stop for a musubi or pick up meds, no problem.” That aloha spirit ripples through every mile, carrying hope and comfort to those who need it most.
None of this would be possible without our incredible community. In a place where public transportation is limited, and the emotional weight of cancer already feels heavy, just knowing someone will be there to pick you up can mean everything.
As Andrea puts it, “Every dollar counts—but if you can give more than a dollar, you’ll be changing and saving lives.”
Mahalo nui loa to every volunteer driver, every donor, and every supporter who helps make these journeys possible. You are the wheels beneath each patient’s hope.
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Uncle Roland
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance 11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
3:00-4:00pm Qigong 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
Nutritional Support Anytime
Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
Nutritional Support Anytime Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
1 2 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
10:00am-12:00pm Mālama Circle for Caregivers 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
4:00-6:00pm Healing Through Expression Workshop
11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance 11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
Image by Shanoaleigh Marson
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
11:00am-12:00pm Caregiver Support Group
4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation 4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
10:00am-12:00pm Mālama Circle for Caregivers 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
Nutritional Support Anytime Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142 Register
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
‘This House Was Always for Everyone’: Trina’s Story
For Trina Kalanikau, asking for help wasn’t easy. She had spent years trying to handle everything on her own—battling cancer, raising her children, and holding onto the home her parents had passed down to her. But the weight of it all—the unfinished repairs, the unsafe conditions, the isolation— became too much.
One day, after years of holding everything in, she broke down. Overwhelmed and exhausted, she called her infusion nurses in tears—not because she knew what she needed, but because she didn’t know what else to do. That call set something in motion.
Trina was young when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Of course, it was a scary moment,” she recalled. Her early experience with treatment felt overwhelming and disheartening, with finances often overshadowing conversations about care.
At the time, her children were still little. “I had a kindergartner and a first grader,” she said.
“Everybody was young and they needed me, and I needed them more than ever. I couldn’t fail them.”
Trina stepped away from treatment for a while, trying to explore other options and find her footing. But the costs quickly became unmanageable. Eventually, she returned to traditional care.
“You gotta call, ’cause nobody is going to know.”
that supported me throughout this time. It was hard on everybody. They didn’t miss a beat out here. They went to see Haleakalā with snow, they went to the county fair. I knew they were okay, so I could take care of myself.”
After leaving an abusive relationship, Trina struggled to create a safe and stable home. The house had deteriorated to the point where it wasn’t safe for her children or her new grandbaby. Four abandoned vehicles cluttered the yard, and the house itself had gaps and damage that left it vulnerable to rodents. Overwhelmed and out of options, Trina finally made that call...
As a single mother, Trina depended on her village—her mother, aunties, and extended family—who stepped in to care for her kids when she couldn’t.
“Thank god grandma was always there,” she said. “They had aunties, they had a little village
Read the rest of her story and see how the community came together in The Kukui Journal.
Scan the QR code to continue reading:
Donor Spotlight: Alysha Nichols-Sparkman
Realtor, Equity One Real Estate
Alysha Sparkman has been an exceptional advocate and supporter of Pacific Cancer Foundation for many years, passionately fundraising through Paddle for Life alongside her husband, Sidney, and previously serving on our board of directors. Through her work as a Maui real estate agent and publisher of Good to be HOME magazine, Alysha has continually raised awareness, inspired generosity, and strengthened our community’s connection to PCF.
Her unwavering commitment and heartfelt contributions have profoundly impacted countless individuals across Maui County.
Mahalo nui loa, Alysha, for your inspiring dedication and generosity!
Alysha Nichols-Sparkman, REALTOR BROKER
Every act of kindness makes a difference. Whether you have time, skills, or resources to give, there are many ways to help ensure no one in Maui County faces cancer alone.
SHARE YOUR TIME & TALENTS
Volunteer as a driver, assist at an event, or donate a trade or service like the Loque ‘Ohana did.
HOST A FUNDRAISER
Organize a birthday fundraiser, golf tournament, or restaurant give-back night.
SHOP & GIVE
Some local businesses donate a portion of their sales to PCF—consider supporting them.
MAKE A DONATION
Your generosity helps fund critical programs like patient navigation, transportation, and nutritional support.
