ABOUT US

OUR WHY

Co-founders John and Patricia started the Ililani Foundation after facing cancer in their own families. John lost his mother to bile duct cancer in 2016, leaving him and his brothers, including a 15-year-old, to navigate their grief. Patricia’s mother, an ovarian cancer survivor, passed away from COVID-19 in 2021.  The impact of cancer on both their mothers was deeply felt by their families.

In May 2021, Patricia was diagnosed with breast cancer, and their ‘ohana had to navigate this unexpected journey. During her surgery and treatment, they recognized a significant lack of resources for cancer patients with young families in Hawai‘i, particularly in the socio-economically challenged, local community of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

Now N.E.D. (no evidence of disease), Patricia’s experience has inspired a strong commitment within their ‘ohana to support other families in Hawai‘i facing similar heart-wrenching battles, ensuring that no one has to to navigate this storm alone. This dedication led to the creation of the Ililani Foundation. 

Ililani means "unexpected rain" in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i (the Hawaiian Language). Rain carries significance in Hawaiian culture, symbolizing both challenges and blessings. A cancer diagnosis can feel like enduring a heavy storm, but the Ililani Foundation exists to bring unexpected blessings of hope and support to cancer patients and their ʻohana.

In Hawaiian culture, name-giving is sacred and deeply valued. We extend our heartfelt mahalo to our VP Board of Directors, Leiali‘i Manoi-Cuban, for taking the time to gift this beautiful inoa (name) to the foundation.

OUR ‘OHANA

Patricia is a Filipino breast cancer survivor and advocate with experience in government, healthcare administration, and over 20 years of nonprofit and church leadership, including working as a pastor/ordained minister. She now manages a dog care business and works at a nonprofit church. She enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring the outdoors, finding new places to eat, and reading.

John is Kānaka Maoli (Indigenous Native Hawaiian), who was born and raised in these islands that he proudly calls home. He is an educator and professional musician with 25+ years of experience. He has served in nonprofit church leadership for 30 years including being a board member, elder, pastor/ordained minister. A jazz enthusiast and multi-instrumentalist, he’s also a proud 49ers fan.

Their ‘ohana loves their dogs, do karate, play board games, and go on adventures. They are involved in their community by serving in their church; being part of a Hula Halau; and they aloha ʻāina by partnering with other non-profits to mālama (care) for a Native Hawaiian Cultural Site in their neighborhood and serving people in their community.