A major charitable grant is set to bring better cancer treatment options closer to home for patients across Hawaiʻi.

• The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust gave the University of Hawaii Cancer Center $2.5 million.
• The money will fund Hawaii's first in-state training program for cancer specialists, known as an oncology fellowship.
• It will also expand access to clinical trials and newer precision treatments, meaning fewer patients will need to travel out of state for advanced care.
• Other local highlights included a family-owned Eva Beach breakfast spot known for big portions and catering, and a Hawaii Wildlife Center push to get residents photographing the islands' endangered native bat for a conservation tracking app.

Outlook: The fellowship and expanded trial access should gradually grow the pool of local cancer specialists and treatment options available to island patients.