Our Cancer CARE Community was founded by Honolulu resident Susan C. Hirano, a metastatic breast cancer “thriver,” beloved patient advocate, and UH Cancer Center Hope Ambassador.
This tribute video tells the story of how and why Susan created the Cancer CARE Community. Susan passed away in April 2025, just days after the program’s launch and a surprise ceremony in which the program was renamed in her honor. However, her legacy lives on through every life touched by her vision — a vision grounded in compassion, courage, and the power of community.
About the Cancer CARE Community
The Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community provides a safe and supportive space for patients, survivors, caregivers and loved ones. Its four pillars offer holistic support across every step of the cancer journey:
COMMUNITY
Creating connection and strength through shared experience
AWARENESS
Delivering access to trusted, relevant and timely information
RESEARCH
Bridging the latest scientific advances with compassionate patient care
EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
Offering tools, events and stories to foster healing and resilience
Through free quarterly events and other services, the Cancer CARE Community brings people together to learn, reflect, and heal—with dignity and hope.
Countless people told me, ‘Yes, this is what we need.’ It makes my heart happy. This is something I can give back to the community and help them feel better about their own journey. — Susan C. Hirano, Founder, The Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community
We’re so excited about the turnout. It just shows how important this program is and how much the community needs it. We can learn from one another and support each other through a very complex and difficult time. — Dr. Jami Fukui, Planning Committee Member, The Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community
Honoring Susan's Legacy
Many have asked how they can honor Susan Hirano’s enduring spirit of advocacy, compassion, and strength. One of the most meaningful ways is by supporting The Hirano Cancer CARE Community Endowment Fund at the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center. This fund ensures Susan’s mission continues — empowering future generations of patients and caregivers with access to critical support, resources, and compassionate care.
Ways to Give
Fund Name: The Hirano Cancer CARE Community Endowment Fund
Fund Number: 210-7460-3
Give Online
Visit https://giving.uhfoundation.org/funds/21074603
By Mail
Make checks payable to:
University of Hawaiʻi Foundation
Note “210-7460-3” in the memo line, and mail to:
University of Hawaiʻi Foundation
P.O. Box 11270
Honolulu, HI 96828-0270
Your generosity ensures Susan’s dream continues — bringing comfort, courage, and connection to people facing cancer in Hawaiʻi.
Mahalo nui loa for your support.
Photo by George F. Lee, The Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Used with permission.
