The FitzGerald Rural Emergency Medicine & Training Legacy Fund
Dr. Judith “Fitz” FitzGerald was more than an exceptional emergency physician. She was a teacher, mentor, and steady presence in moments when compassion mattered most. For decades, Fitz dedicated her life to caring for Hawaiʻi Island and strengthening those who serve our community in times of crisis.
The FitzGerald Rural Emergency Medicine & Training Legacy Fund was created to honor her life and ensure that her passion for education, preparedness, and rural emergency care continues to shape future generations of caregivers.
Who Fitz Was
Affectionately known as “Fitz,” Dr. FitzGerald embodied the aloha spirit in every aspect of her work. She believed deeply that everyone has a gift, and that when those gifts are nurtured, entire communities are made stronger. As Medical Director for Hawaii County Emergency Services Bureau and a long-time emergency physician at Hilo Benioff Medical Center, Fitz gave selflessly of her time, energy, and personal resources to support clinicians, first responders, and healthcare teams across Hawaii Island.
Her vision and generosity were instrumental in the development of the Hilo [Benioff] Medical Center Simulation Center, a transformative training space that continues to prepare medical professionals for high-stakes, life-saving care. Fitz also taught hundreds of clinicians Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) courses, always without compensation, always on her own time.
Why This Fund Matters Now
Fitz’s sudden and tragic passing is a profound loss for our island and for all who had the privilege of learning from her. At the same time, Hawaii’s rural communities continue to face critical healthcare workforce shortages and increasing demands on emergency services.
This fund transforms grief into purpose. By investing in education, training, and professional development, the FitzGerald Legacy Fund ensures that her commitment to excellence, mentorship, and compassionate care lives on, strengthening those who continue her mission of saving lives.
How the Fund Will Make an Impact
Gifts to The FitzGerald Legacy Fund will support:
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Emergency and rural healthcare education and training
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Clinical skills development and simulation-based learning
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Professional development for clinicians and first responders
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Workforce development initiatives that strengthen care on Hawaiʻi Island
Each contribution helps carry forward Fitz’s belief that knowledge shared is lives saved.
Honor Fitz. Invest in Care. Save Lives.
Your gift is a powerful way to honor Dr. Judith “Fitz” FitzGerald’s life and legacy. By supporting this fund, you help ensure that her passion for teaching, preparedness, and aloha continues to guide the caregivers who serve our island, today and for generations to come.
Frequency
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Amount
$20
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Please mail checks to:
Hilo Benioff Medical Center Foundation
Memo: Fitz
1190 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720
