Brenda is the general manager of food and nutrition services at Kapiolani. She is also a breast cancer survivor. “I was shocked to learn that I had breast cancer,” said Brenda. “I asked ‘Why me?’ and was worried about the impact to my family.” According to Brenda, her lowest point in her illness was the chemotherapy but what gave her hope were her faith and the advances in breast cancer treatment. Has this experience changed her life? “Absolutely! I have learned that not everything is a big deal and after surviving cancer, I can get through anything. Things happen for a reason and I am here to help others through their journey.” Brenda is an active member of the community, volunteering with organizations such as the Komen Pink Tie Ball, Maryknoll School, Hawaii Mother’s Milk and Ikaika Baseball. She loves to Zumba and enjoys sewing, crafting and reading.