A special event honoring breast cancer survivors and their ohana, ‘E Ola Kakou — Let’s Live, will be presented from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Hilo Bayfront.
The sponsor, Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi, invites the Big Island community to come and learn more about breast cancer and other cancers, receive a clinical breast exam, and have fun by either forming a paddling team, “or just jump in a canoe and paddle in exciting events.”
The day’s activities begin at 10 a.m., with water events from noon to 2 p.m. Food will be provided for free.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Hawaii and across the nation.
For more information, contact Shearer at 969-9220 or email leimomi@huimalamahawaii.org.
“To reduce the incidence of breast cancer in our community, Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi, the Native Hawaiian Health Care System for Hawaii Island, is excited to have community resources share information about breast and other cancers,” said Hui Malama spokeswoman Leimomi Shearer.
Cancer-related information will be provided by the American Cancer Society, Hawaii Radiologic Associates/Women’s Imaging, Tobacco Free Hawaii Coalition-East Hawaii, Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center, Bay Clinic Inc., West Hawaii Community Health Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Pharmacy and the Susan G. Komen Hawaii Affiliate.
“Clinical breast exams will take place in our pink tent and referrals for mammography will be made as necessary. Mammography examinations for uninsured or underinsured women are free of charge and will be paid for through Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi’s ‘E Ola Kakou! grant from the Susan G. Komen Hawaii Affiliate organization,” said Shearer.
“An exciting component of the day’s events is the waa (canoe) events. Join us with your own team or simply stop by the registration table and let them know that you want to paddle, and we’ll place you on a team,” she said.
Water events will include “Count Your Blessings,” where the team who catches the most “blessing balls” wins! Other events are “Hanai A Survivor,” “Cross Fit,” “‘Ohana Crew,” “Mixed Plate” and “Best Costume.”
Registration will be available on-site as well as through Hui Malama offices. All activities are free.
“We are blessed to have received funding from Susan G. Komen Hawaii Affiliate to provide a venue for community resources to educate our island community about breast cancer, provide clinical breast exams, and assist uninsured and underinsured women with the costs of mammography examinations,” said Shearer. “Come and eat, enjoy the day, and show your support for breast cancer survivors and their ‘ohana by participating in the waa events.”
