The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust is funding new lifesaving equipment for cardiac emergencies across the Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH) system with a nearly $360,000 grant.
The grant received by Straub Benioff Medical Center will allow HPH to acquire cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) machines. Officially known as the Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System, or LUCAS, the devices provide consistent and uninterrupted chest compressions even in challenging circumstances, such as during a patient’s transport to a medical center or when CPR is needed for an extended period of time.
The devices will be utilized at all four of HPH’s medical centers: Kapiolani, Pali Momi and Straub Benioff medical centers on Oahu, and Wilcox Medical Center on Kauai. The Emergency Departments and Intensive Care Units are among the areas that will benefit the most from the new devices.
“During a cardiac arrest, every second counts,” said Walter Panzirer, a Trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “A LUCAS device allows hospital teams to focus on other critical interventions while chest compressions are continuously administered. We’re excited to help expand access to this state-of-the-art technology on Hawaii.”
The Helmsley Charitable Trust has been a dedicated supporter of health care in Hawaii since 2024. Helmsley’s inaugural gift in Hawaii was a $10.6 million grant to advance imaging services at Wilcox and help develop the physician workforce on Kauai. Last year, Helmsley contributed $5 million to Kapiolani to help create a new, expanded cancer and infusion center for women and children. To date, Helmsley has contributed more than $44 million to Hawaii.
“Our clinical teams deliver exceptional care every day, often in the most critical moments,” said Ray Vara, HPH president & CEO. “This grant will equip them with advanced tools and technology that enhance the high-quality care they provide, especially when time is of the essence. We are grateful to the Helmsley Charitable Trust for its ongoing support of the health and well-being of the people of Hawaii, and for its partnership in our shared commitment to creating healthier communities.”
Photo: Straub Benioff Emergency Department nurses Amanda Hines (left) and Lisa Fillipone set up a LUCAS chest compression machine.