UH Cancer Center hosts its first breast cancer community event, ʻOhana Pink

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HONOLULU-Conquering breast cancer starts with sound research to explore new ways to prevent, diagnose and manage the disease. Equally important is the support and aloha of those who understand the challenges of being on the same cancer journey.

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the University of Hawai'i Cancer Center will host "ʻOhana Pink," its first-ever breast cancer community event, on Sunday, October 6, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Sullivan Conference Center and lanai (701 Ilalo Street in Kakaʻako). The free event will bring together cancer patients, nonprofit groups, and medical experts to connect and support each other in the fight against breast cancer.

Participants can register to participate in person or virtually at https://uhcancercenter.org/ohanapink

"This event is the result of listening to the needs of patients and finding out they are interested in learning about breast cancer research opportunities and ways to give back during their cancer journey," said Jami Fukui, a UH Cancer Center researcher and clinician who specializes in breast cancer research, developing clinical trial protocols, and providing cancer care to Hawaiʻi. She will present current and upcoming breast cancer clinical trials conducted by the UH Cancer Center.

"Our goal is to build and strengthen connections within the breast cancer community. When someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, your days can be filled with a lot of questions," said Fukui.,"We wanted to bring everyone together - patients, medical doctors who are researchers and clinicians, and others who share our same mission - to talk story, exchange experiences with each other, and share new information on our latest research findings. Whether participating in person or online, we hope everyone who attends knows they are not alone in their cancer journey."

Naoto T. Ueno, director of the UH Cancer Center, an internationally renowned expert in inflammatory breast cancer, and a two-time cancer survivor, will also speak at the event.

"The UH Cancer Center has been able to make progress in breast cancer research largely because of the support of patients who have been willing to participate in our studies. We couldn't do our research work without their support," said Ueno. "It will be an opportunity for us to say mahalo to all of our patient-participants, and let them know we are here for them and look forward to collaborating with more patients in the future so that we can continue to improve cancer care for Hawai'i patients."

Patient experiences, community groups, more

Patients like Susan Hirano, diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer three years ago, will also share their stories.

"I am extremely encouraged by the information this special event has to offer the community," she said. "This is a great opportunity to let the patients and their family members know about all the treatment options available to them.Having more clinical trials available in Hawaii, especially for breast cancer, provides not only hope, but more importantly, the ability to remain here on the islands with our most important support system - our family and friends."

The ʻOhana Pink event will include exhibits and information from organizations including the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, Breast Cancer-Hawai'i, REHAB Hospital of the Pacific, and UH Cancer Center's clinical partners Hawai'i Pacific Health and The Queen's Medical Center.

Additionally, attendees will experience a special hula presentation, showcasing UH Cancer Center research on how hula improve physical activity quality of life, and emotional well-being for breast cancer survivors. Studies have found that hula decreases inflammation-related cytokines and offers psychosocial benefits to survivors.

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About the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center
The University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center is dedicated to saving lives in Hawai'i and the Pacific and inspiring hope and by conquering cancer. It strives to do this through research, education, patient care, and community outreach, emphasizing the diverse and unique ethnic, cultural, and environmental characteristics of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. The UH Cancer Center adds more than $57 million to the Oʻahu economy through scientific research, clinical trials, and numerous other activities. It is one of only 72 cancer research institutions designated by the National Cancer Institute, a mark of rigor and excellence, and the only NCI-designated cancer center in Hawai'i and the Pacific. Learn more at uhcancercenter.org.

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