Good Health Clinic (GHC) has initiated its annual fundraising competition, the 2026 Big Kahuna Challenge, aiming to secure essential healthcare services for uninsured residents across the Florida Keys. This event mobilizes business and community leaders to raise funds and awareness for the clinic's mission.

Fundraising for Uninsured Care

The funds generated through the Big Kahuna Challenge directly support thousands of medical visits, prescriptions, specialty care, and diagnostic services for those without health insurance in the Keys. Kate Banick, GHC's executive director, emphasized the importance of these contributions, stating, “Every dollar our Kahunas raise helps ensure that uninsured residents can continue to receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve. We hope the community will rally behind these amazing fundraisers and help us continue changing lives.”

The event culminates with the Kahuna Challenge awards ceremony scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10, at Founders Park Beach in Islamorada.

Community Leaders Participate

Several prominent individuals and businesses are participating as 2026 Kahuna challengers. Ibanez from Houston Insurance, who has lived in the Keys for six years, highlighted the community's spirit of mutual support, noting, “Life in the Florida Keys is built on connection, compassion and looking out for one another. That’s why Good Health Clinic’s mission resonates so deeply with us — because a healthier community means a stronger, more vibrant home for everyone.”

Yesenia Moreno, managing partner of New Edge Associates, a South Florida-based executive search firm, expressed her commitment to giving back to the community that has supported her. “The Florida Keys community has given me so much, and supporting Good Health Clinic is my way of giving back. No one should have to choose between their health and their finances. I’m passionate about helping our neighbors access the care they deserve and proud to champion this life-changing mission.” Moreno also serves on the board of directors for the Key Largo Chamber and is an executive committee member of Women United through United Way Miami.

Chelsea O’Connor, a nursing leader at Mariners Hospital and a lifelong Upper Keys resident, shared her dedication to improving healthcare access. “My work is rooted in a commitment to improving access to care and promoting health and wellness across our community, values that align closely with the Big Kahuna Challenge and the mission of the Good Health Clinic,” she stated. O’Connor began her career in 2007 as a pediatric registered nurse before transitioning to adult care at Mariners Hospital.

Dr. David Padden of Pharos Orthobiologica Institute, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthritis and reconstructive surgery, found the decision to participate straightforward. “Choosing to become a 2026 Kahuna challenger was an easy one, to assist in providing quality care to those Keys residents who would otherwise struggle to find it,” Padden said. Pharos Orthobiologica Institute offers treatments such as stem cell therapy, PRP, laser therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen treatments.

Jaclyn Kelley, broker/owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Destinations and Star Properties Destinations, underscored the necessity of GHC's services. “No one in our community should go without health care, yet a staggering number of locals do. Good Health Clinic provides health care to those who need it most, and I’m proud to support its mission,” Kelley remarked. As a “freshwater Conch” with deep roots in the Keys, Kelley believes in the power of community support and is honored to represent her home as a candidate. For more information on the challenge, readers can visit the Keys Weekly.

The Big Kahuna Challenge is a critical initiative for Good Health Clinic, enabling them to continue providing vital health services to a population that might otherwise lack access. The collective effort of these community leaders and their supporters aims to ensure a healthier future for all Keys residents. Further details about the clinic's work can be found through Keys Weekly.