Inspire 2023 ANNUAL REPORT
HPH: A Legacy of Giving
From left: Nina Mullaly; Darcy Kessler, Straub Benioff lead vascular lab technologist; Gail Myers; and Tia Guarani.
“My house, my rules.” That was one of Gail Myers’ favorite phrases throughout her remarkable life. She paid her way through college and was the first in her family to graduate. As she became a shrewd businesswoman and investor in Hawaii, she always prioritized giving back.
“Gail was a special person,” said Darcy Kessler, Straub Benioff Medical Center lead vascular lab technologist who cared for Gail. “She was fierce and fabulous but even more so, kind and generous.”
Gail’s strength got her through two lifesaving vascular surgeries at Straub Benioff, and she was truly grateful for those who cared for her. Whether it was a with handwritten note or a cake she baked herself, Gail showed the medical team how much she appreciated them.
“Gail really brought people into her circle,” Kessler said. “She was never standoffish, and you just became one of her people, no matter who you were.”
She started the Gail Myers Fund for Vascular Medicine as a way to help others while honoring the Straub Benioff staff. Still, Gail wanted to do more. Before she passed away in 2021, one of her wishes was to put her extensive jewelry collection up for auction, with all proceeds to benefit the medical center that saved her life.
In November 2023, Gail’s collection of gold bracelets, diamond rings, sapphire earrings, pearl necklaces and jeweled watches were all on display at The Wedding Ring Shop. The holiday season wasn’t in full swing yet, but a large Christmas tree lit up the store in honor of Gail’s favorite holiday. For that one night, the store was her house, and everyone played by her rules.
Many pieces sold for thousands of dollars. That, along with several other gifts she left in her will, added up to one of the largest gifts the Straub Foundation has ever received. The funds will go toward furthering education for Straub Benioff staff, as well as the state-of-the-art health care campus of the future. Gail’s legacy of philanthropy lives on through her gift that will benefit Hawaii for generations to come.
“Her generosity knew no bounds,” Kessler said. “I was just lucky enough to know her for as many years as I did. I really came to love and respect her as a friend.”
If you are interested in making a lasting impact by joining our legacy society at any of Hawaii Pacific Health’s medical centers, call 808-535-7100 or visit Give2HPH.org/Make-A-Gift/Overview.