The Kukui Chronicle
ILLUMINATING STORIES AND SUPPORT FOR MAUI’S CANCER COMMUNITY
Celebrating 20 Years of Hope and Connection
Welcome to the First 2025 Edition of the Pacific Cancer Foundation Newsletter
Aloha from Jenny Worth
Dear PCF ‘Ohana,
As the Pacific Cancer Foundation marks its 20th year of service to our community, I am deeply honored to write to you as your new Executive Director. Like the kukui tree that stands as our symbol, our organization has taken root in Maui’s soil over two decades, providing light and hope to countless families touched by cancer.
As we step into 2025, we carry
forward two decades of compassionate service while embracing new opportunities to grow and adapt. In these pages, you’ll find stories of hope, updates on our programs and services, and ways to engage with our mission. Each story, like each branch of the kukui tree, reaches out to provide shelter, support, and connection.
Your trust in our organization and your participation in our community means everything
to us. Whether you’re a patient, survivor, caregiver, healthcare partner, donor, or volunteer, you are an essential part of our story. Together, we will continue to grow stronger, reach further, and shine brighter for those who need us most.
With gratitude and hope for the journey ahead,
Jenny L. Worth, Executive Director
Kukui tree in bloom, photographed by Lauren Otsubo at the H.P. Baldwin High School campus.
Celebrating 20 Years
Aloha Kalikimaka Gala debuts
PCF hosts its first Aloha Kalikimaka Gala, establishing a cherished annual fundraiser to support its programs and services.
Paddle for Life Launches
The inaugural Paddle for Life: Voyage to Lana’i event unites cancer survivors and supporters for a 36-mile journey, celebrating resilience and community.
Celebrating 20 Years of Hope and Connection
PCF marks two decades of providing Access, Knowledge, and Support to Maui County’s cancer community. This milestone year focuses on strengthening programs, launching new initiatives, and continuing to inspire hope and resilience across Maui, Lāna’i, and Moloka’i.
In 2004, a generous $50,000 donation from a grateful patient sparked the founding of the Pacific Cancer Foundation. This seed funding laid the foundation for PCF to become a vital resource for Maui County’s cancer community.
2005
Mission Activation
Pacific Cancer Foundation begins its journey, with five founding board members, its first Executive Director, and the launch of its mission to support Maui County’s cancer community.
Sub-Specialist Program Begins
PCF launches its sub-specialist program, bringing cancer specialists to Maui and improving access to critical care for local patients.
Patient Navigation Program Launches
PCF introduces its Patient Navigation Program, offering personalized guidance and support to help patients navigate their cancer journey.
Nutrition Program Launches
Recognizing the importance of nourishment in healing, PCF launches its Nutrition Program, providing resources and guidance for patients and caregivers.
We take the journey with you.
Your Partner in Access, Knowledge, and Support.
At the Pacific Cancer Foundation, we believe that no one should face cancer alone. Serving Maui, Lana’i, and Moloka’i, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking resources, education, or emotional support, our mission is to empower you with the tools and care you need to navigate your cancer journey with confidence and hope.
Access
We open doors to essential resources and services, ensuring that cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers have the support they need. From connecting you to medical care and treatment options
to providing financial assistance, transportation, and more, we make sure no one feels left behind.
Together, we’re creating a network of care and resilience for Maui County.
Knowledge
Understanding a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Through educational programs, workshops, and
informational materials, we provide the guidance you need to make informed decisions about your care. Learn about treatment options, side effects, and self-care strategies to face the journey ahead with clarity and strength.
Support
Cancer doesn’t just affect the body, it impacts the heart, mind, and spirit. That’s why we provide emotional and social support through support groups, peer mentorship, wellness programs, and caregiver assistance. Our compassionate community is here to listen, encourage, and connect, ensuring that no one has to navigate cancer alone.
The Heart Behind the Help
Our dedicated team is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way.
Jenny Worth Executive Director
Andrea Bacos Patient Navigator
Tori-Ann Golis-Bacos Care Coordinator
Sally Pechstein Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Syrahlyn Vergara Admin Assistant
Joan Selix-Berman Support Group Facilitator
Tamara Catz Support Group Facilitator
Natalia Rogers Marketing Director
Kurt Miyajima Qigong Instructor
Peter Kafka Men’s Talk Story Facilitator
JANUARY
Nutritional Support Anytime Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance 5:30-7:00pm Men’s Talk Story
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
4:00-5:00pm Support Group 5:00-6:00pm Meditation
3:00-4:00pm Qigong
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance 5:30-7:00pm Men’s Talk Story
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
Call: 808-249-1623
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
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
Email: navigator@pacificcancerfoundation.org
Visit: 227 Mahalani Street, Suite 99 (inside PCI at MMMC)
Image by Maui photographer, Andrew Shoemaker
FEBRUARY
Nutritional Support Anytime Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
10:00am-12:00pm Let’s Connect: Virtual Office Hours
Nordstrom Prosthesis Fittings
Nordstrom’s Certified Prosthesis Fitters visit Maui monthly for post-mastectomy fittings.
Next dates: Feb 5, Mar 14 & 28, Apr 1 & 2
Call 808-953-6100 Ext. 1240 to book.
By Appointment
Nordstrom Prosthesis
11:00am-12:00pm Talk Story Group 5:30-7:00pm Men’s Talk Story
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
10:00am-12:00pm Let’s Connect: Virtual Office Hours
11:00am-12:00pm Talk Story Group 5:30-7:00pm Men’s Talk Story
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
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
Email: navigator@pacificcancerfoundation.org Visit: 227 Mahalani Street, Suite 99 (inside PCI at MMMC)
Image by Lokahi Photography
Nutritional Support Anytime Need guidance on nutrition during your cancer journey? Contact Sally for personalized support: Call: 808-866-8142
Email: sally@pacificcancerfoundation.org
10:00am-12:00pm Let’s Connect: Virtual Office Hours 10:00am-12:00pm Let’s Connect: Virtual Office Hours
Let’s Connect: Virtual Office Hours Talk with a Patient Navigator online every other Tuesday, 10 AM–12 PM.
To Join: Scan the QR code below. Click event on our calendar and join at the start time.
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
11:00am-12:00pm Talk Story Group 5:30-7:00pm Men’s Talk Story
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
11:00am-12:00pm Talk Story Group
11:00am-2:30pm SNAP and MedQUEST Assistance
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 By Appointment Nordstrom Prosthesis Fitting 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
3:00-4:00pm Qigong By Appointment Nordstrom Prosthesis Fitting 3:00-4:00pm Qigong
Email: navigator@pacificcancerfoundation.org Visit: 227 Mahalani Street, Suite 99 (inside PCI at MMMC)
Image by Hawai’i photographer, Bruce Omori
Your Community of Support
Patient Navigation
Financial Assistance
Transportation/Lodging
Nutritional Support
Support Groups
Wellness Services
We offer a variety of free programs and services to support cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers in Maui County. Here are some of the key initiatives we provide:
Personalized guidance to help patients navigate their cancer journey, from diagnosis to survivorship.
Support to ease the financial burden of cancer treatment, including copay assistance and emergency funds.
Services to ensure patients can get to and from their medical appointments safely and reliably.
Counseling and resources to help patients maintain optimal nutrition during and after treatment.
Regular meetings where patients, survivors, and caregivers can share experiences and receive emotional support.
Programs such as meditation and qigong to promote physical and emotional well-being during and after cancer treatment.
Donor Spotlight: Alec McBarnet
Maui Oil Company Co-Owner & CEO
Alec McBarnet has been a dedicated supporter of Pacific Cancer Foundation for many years, serving as a board member and now as a Director Emeritus. Through Maui Oil Company, Alec has consistently contributed to our mission, providing vital support for programs like our Transportation Program (gas cards), Aloha Kalikimaka Gala, and Paddle for Life.
His generosity and unwavering commitment have helped us ensure access to care, support, and hope for Maui’s cancer community.
Mahalo nui loa, Alec, for your enduring support!
Terry (left) and Alec McBarnet (right) pause for a photo in front of a Maui Oil Company delivery truck.
Your Gift Brings Hope
For 20 years, the Pacific Cancer Foundation has provided free support to Maui County’s cancer community. With your help, we can continue to offer vital services like transportation, patient navigation, nutritional guidance, and emotional support—all at no cost to families.
Every Dollar Stays Here
more info, please call 808-242-7661
Your contribution directly benefits patients, survivors, and caregivers across Maui, Lana‘i, and Moloka‘i. Together, we can continue to provide strength, resilience, and hope. Mahalo for your support!
ride from Lahaina for treatment