Francis, a 63-year-old from Makawao, was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in October 2023. Since then, he and his wife, Renette, have been making regular trips to Oʻahu for treatment at Queen’s Cancer Center—often staying at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Honolulu. While Renette works as a preschool teacher, the financial strain of ongoing cancer care and household bills—on top of their mortgage—has taken a toll.
Now, as Francis prepares to travel to MD Anderson in Texas for a stem cell transplant, the couple faces new challenges. With Hope Lodge Houston at capacity, they’ll need to cover out-of-pocket lodging costs during their stay for Francis’ treatment and recovery, in addition to mounting bills for medical co-pays.
Still, their strength and love for each other remain unwavering.
UVSC’s assistance will help cover out-of-pocket expenses for Francis and Renette during this next phase of treatment—offering peace of mind and a reminder that they’re not alone in this fight.
