GIFTS
Cancer C. A. R. E Community Fund Established by Breast Cancer Survivor
In December 2024, breast cancer survivor Agnes Judge made Hawai‘ i stop number 49 on her tour of all 50 states, bringing a $ 1,000 donation to the UH Cancer Center, along with a message of hope and empowerment for fellow cancer patients.
The Charleston, South Carolina, native is a breast cancer survivor who had a double mastectomy in 2019. She is a breast cancer model and patient advocate. Her donation kicked off the Susan C. Hirano Cancer C. A. R. E Community Fund( Community, Awareness, Research, Emotional Wellbeing) which backs patient empowerment and support initiatives for cancer patients, caregivers, and families.
UH Cancer Center Hope Ambassador Susan Hirano, visiting patient advocate Agnes Judge, and UH Cancer Center Associate Director of Development Tawney Sablan
Diane Ono’ s Visionary Gifts Raise Awareness for Clinical Trials
Diane Ono’ s steadfast commitment to advancing cancer research has made a profound impact on the work we do at the University of Hawai‘ i Cancer Center. A passionate philanthropist and tireless advocate, Diane has dedicated herself to raising awareness about clinical trials and bringing hope to families facing cancer.
Her journey as a supporter began with a deeply personal experience— her daughter Mari’ s diagnosis with childhood leukemia at the age of 4. Through Mari’ s participation in clinical trials, Diane witnessed firsthand the life-saving potential of cutting-edge treatments. This experience ignited her lifelong mission to ensure others in Hawai‘ i have access to the same opportunities for hope and healing.
In 2024, Diane significantly expanded her advocacy by funding a statewide public awareness campaign focused on the importance of clinical trials. Her efforts will help educate the community, reduce stigma, and empower patients to seek innovative treatment options. Diane also hosted a powerful Toast to Hope event focused on pancreatic cancer, bringing together survivors, researchers, and supporters to spotlight one of the most challenging diseases we face.
Diane’ s support has been instrumental in the growth of our Ho‘ ōla Early Phase Clinical Research Center. Her vision and generosity are helping to shape a future in which cutting-edge care is available here at home, and patients can remain surrounded by loved ones.
L to R: Owen Martin, Mari Galiher Martin, Diane Ono and UH Cancer Center Director Dr. Naoto T. Ueno
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