Women’s Center Grows To Meet Increased Need
By Rep. Heather Giugni
One of the highlights of representing Aiea is meeting so many compassionate women who are caregivers for their children, spouses, parents, relatives and friends. Some of you have shared with me your joys, as well as your challenges, while others have preferred to keep their struggles inside.
Wherever you fall on the spectrum, it is important to recognize that, in order to take care of others, we need to also take care of ourselves. Taking time to focus on our own needs makes us stronger women and caregivers.
As a member of the House Finance Committee, sometimes working until 3:00 a.m., I know how hard it is to find time for one’s self.
In ancient Hawaii, Aiea was revered for its healing properties. Keaiwa Heiau, a medicinal temple, was a sacred site for the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries. Aiea still serves as an important center of healing, especially with its Pali Momi Medical Center ranked in the top 5 percent of the nation for Outstanding Patient Experience.
Recently, I had the honor of touring the new Pali Momi Women’s Center at Pearlridge, which is transforming the former Inspiration furniture store into a state-of-the art facility dedicated to the health and well-being of women.
Since its opening in 2003, Pali Momi has served thousands of area women, and that number is rising as our population ages in place.
According to Liz Chun, Pali Momi director of philanthropy, “The Pali Momi Women’s Center is growing to meet the needs of our West Oahu community. For the past ten years, patients have come to depend on the Women’s Center for regular check-ups, bone health and advanced breast health. In late summer 2012, Pali Momi Women’s Center will move to their brand new Pali Momi Medical Pavilion.
“The new expansion combines the community institution’s tradition of excellent care, patient safety with expanded services for OB/GYN, a patient navigator, a resource library and the most advanced technology with 3-D breast imaging and breast MRI. Pali Momi Women’s Center remains the only facility in West Oahu that offers women of all ages patient centered comprehensive health services.”
While we await the opening of the Health Center along with a host of services, including transportation services for those needing shuttling support, don’t forget to continue to take the time to take care of yourselves.
The center’s hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 am to 4 p.m. Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 485-4500.
State Rep. Heather Giugni serves District 33 (Aiea, Halawa Valley, Halawa Heights, Aiea Heights). She can be reached at 586-6340.
