Inspire 2023

Pali Momi: 5 Years of Coordinated Care

“Our staff make this place special. They truly love what they do."
Kristi Sakai, Pali Momi Cancer Center infusion services manager

Patients, physicians, nurses, staff and Pali Momi leadership commemorated the Dr. James T. Kakuda Cancer Center’s five-year anniversary with an intimate blessing.

In 2017, Dr. James T. Kakuda’s vision came to life when the Cancer Center at Pali Momi Medical Center opened its doors. Central and West Oahu patients were finally able to receive comprehensive and coordinated cancer care in one location, close to home. Since that day, the Dr. James T. Kakuda Cancer Center has been a place of hope and healing. An intimate celebration was held in October 2022 to commemorate the five-year anniversary.

The center has made a significant impact on the community.  In 2021, there were more than 8,700 hematology/oncology and 15,000 infusion appointments. Cancer Center leaders say staff members take their time with each patient to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

In 2021, the Pali Momi Cancer Center was renamed in honor of Dr. James T. Kakuda. The late surgical oncologist served as chief medical officer and chief of staff at Pali Momi.In 2021, the Pali Momi Cancer Center was renamed in honor of Dr. James T. Kakuda. The late surgical oncologist served as chief medical officer and chief of staff at Pali Momi.

In 2021, the Pali Momi Cancer Center was renamed in honor of Dr. James T. Kakuda. The late surgical oncologist served as chief medical officer and chief of staff at Pali Momi.

“Our staff make this place special. They truly love what they do and try to make it as enjoyable as possible for the people they care for,” said Kristi Sakai, Pali Momi Cancer Center infusion services manager. “Not only do they coordinate visits so patients can receive services and treatments on the same day, all under one roof, they get to know them on a personal level. Our team takes time to talk story, laugh and even sing with them. Patients become part of our family.”

Generous gifts and donations from the community allow the Cancer Center to provide the highest level of care possible. Jams World, which is celebrating its own milestone of 60 years in business, contributes proceeds from its special Akala (pink) clothing line toward cancer care at Pali Momi each year.

As someone who loves surfing in Makaha, Jams World president Pua Rochlen feels very committed to support the community for being so warm and welcoming. “When the Cancer Center opened at Pali Momi in 2017, Pua was happy to see a specialized center for West Oahu communities and he wanted to support the facility year-round,” said Lei Rowan, Jams World retail and marketing director. “We hope our financial support brings awareness to the Cancer Center."