The American Cancer Society of Hawaii Island has received a $1,400 donation from the Hawaii Fire Department.
Since 2019, through the leadership of Assistant Chief Darwin Okinaka, the department has raised funds for its continuous support to ACSHI and cancer patients. Hawaii Fire Department (HFD) members actively participated in the fundraiser and sold breast cancer awareness-themed duty shirts for $5 to fellow firefighters.
“We are humbled by the generosity of Darwin and his crew at the Hawaii Fire Department, who are committed to the ultimate goal of finding a cure for cancer,” said Sarah Luchenbill, America Cancer Society of Hawaii Island development manager, according to West Hawaii Today. “Every donation, whether small or large, is a chance for us to make a difference. Because of the generosity of our firefighters, that is exactly what we’re doing – making a difference.”
The donations received by the society are used to fund research and provide programs for cancer prevention and early detection, patient support, and information for cancer patients and their families. Monetary donations to ACSHI are tax-deductible.
The society doesn’t stop with their mission, “because cancer doesn’t stop,” it said. Volunteering can be done in many ways including engaging remotely. The society conducts free programs and services to help manage cancer treatment and recovery. It also provides emotional support for patients and families.
Okinaka said he is honored to work with HFD to raise money for cancer research nationally. He lost his mother to cancer, KWXX reported.