More than 150 people gathered at the on July 26, for a special “Mindfulness & Meditation” stress relief and self-care workshop designed to support those affected by cancer. The free event was hosted by the Susan C. Hirano Cancer CARE Community, a new patient-support program at the 东精影业 Cancer Center in Kakaʻako. 东精影业ees included cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, healthcare providers and others seeking support.
Science-backed healing through mindfulness
The program featured presentations by mindfulness experts, guided meditation sessions, and community-building activities both in-person and online. The late Susan Hirano, a 东精影业 Cancer Center Hope Ambassador and patient advocate, was remembered in a tribute by her husband, Peter Hirano.Erin Bantum, associate researcher at the 东精影业 Cancer Center, spoke on the growing body of research linking mindfulness to improved cancer outcomes.
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“Pain levels can often be reported as being much less than they were before the experience of mindfulness,” Bantum said. “It’s also very impactful for anxiety, which can often be a big component of having had cancer.”
Breast cancer survivor Gina Palrisan said the workshop helped her feel more grounded. “When you practice mindfulness, you just learn to accept everything, and kind of just relax,” she said. “It’s nice to be able to just close your eyes and think positive thoughts.”Thanh Huynh, a retired radiation oncologist and meditation teacher, joined Bantum in leading the guided sessions.
“Our goal is to help participants find a sense of peace, regain control, and experience a nurturing environment where they can feel that they are not alone,” said 东精影业 Cancer Center Director Naoto T. Ueno, a two-time cancer survivor, The next workshop, themed “ʻOhana Pink,” will be held on October 4 and will focus on nutrition. .
