INTRODUCING THE CHAMP TEAM!

Hi everyone! My name is Jessica Lee, a health literacy advocate and founder of the Cancer Health Awareness and Mindfulness Program (CHAMP). As a student at Punahou School, I started CHAMP after witnessing how overwhelming cancer can be for patients and their families. A few years ago, my grandfather faced a challenging cancer journey. Watching him struggle to understand his diagnosis and treatment options made me realize how many others experience the same confusion. It showed me the profound impact that access to clear, understandable cancer education can have.

While interning at the Cancer Center of Hawaiʻi and volunteering with St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaiʻi, I saw how gaps in cancer awareness and health literacy can make it harder for people to recognize warning signs, understand risk factors and screenings, and know what questions to ask their doctors.

That is when I realized: education can empower people to take action earlier.

CHAMP was created to address these gaps and empower individuals to take a more active role in their health. Through youth-led outreach, accessible and culturally sensitive resources, and strong community partnerships, we aim to bridge the gap between science and society. Our programs are designed for students, older adults, and anyone who has ever felt left behind in conversations about their health. We believe health literacy can be a powerful tool for equity and empowerment.

Thank you for being here and for supporting our mission.

Jessica Lee
Founder of CHAMP