October marks Filipino Heritage Month, a time to honor the incredible contributions of the Filipino-American community to various industries across the U.S. This year, we shine a light on Violeta Arnobit, CEO of ACE Medical, a leading provider of home medical equipment in Hawaii. Violeta’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming a renowned advocate and educator in the healthcare industry is a testament to the values of perseverance, community, and a commitment to helping others live healthier, more independent lives.
At ACE Medical, we combine the values deeply rooted in Filipino culture—such as "bayanihan" (community spirit) and respect for elders—with a dedication to providing top-quality medical equipment to those in need. Our story is not just about business; it's about empowering individuals and families with the tools they need to maintain their health and independence. As we celebrate Filipino Heritage Month, we want to share Violeta’s story and how it embodies the spirit of service, care, and dedication that drives our work at ACE Medical.
Violeta Arnobit: From $25 to CEO
Violeta Arnobit’s journey to becoming the CEO of ACE Medical is one of grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to education and healthcare. Born and raised in the Philippines, Violeta immigrated to the United States with only $25 in her pocket. Her first job as a nurse in New York was far from glamorous. Along with 60 other nurses, she lived in an abandoned dorm, sharing two bathrooms and living without basic amenities like a kitchen or laundry machines.
Despite these hardships, Violeta persevered, working tirelessly as an ICU nurse. She soon realized that her true passion lay in providing long-term solutions for those in need of home medical equipment. In 1995, Violeta founded ACE Medical in Hawaii with a vision of delivering high-quality medical equipment to individuals and families, helping them live more independent and fulfilling lives.
The early years of ACE Medical were challenging. Like many small businesses, the company struggled to turn a profit initially. However, Violeta remained committed to her mission and her community. She attended Medtrade, the largest home medical equipment trade show in the country, and made it a priority to stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and innovations. “If you want to stay in the industry, you need to diversify, get connected, and keep up,” she explains. Violeta’s dedication to continuous learning and adaptation has been instrumental in the company’s growth and success.
Emphasizing Education in Healthcare
One of the core values that Violeta brought to ACE Medical is the importance of education. She believes that providing high-quality home medical equipment is not just about selling products; it’s about educating both healthcare providers and patients on how to use the equipment effectively to improve health outcomes.
“I take care of education,” Violeta says. “My goal is to educate, not just to market. I educate them about what documentation is required by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services).” Violeta’s commitment to education extends beyond her company. She serves on government relations committees in Hawaii and is a member of the Board of Regents and Nursing Advisory Board at Chaminade University. Through these roles, she has helped shape healthcare policy and improve access to quality care across the islands.
At ACE Medical, this emphasis on education is reflected in everything we do. Whether we’re helping patients select the right rollator for their mobility needs or providing in-services to referral sources, our focus is always on empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthier, more independent lives.
The Filipino Values at the Heart of ACE Medical
Violeta’s Filipino heritage plays a significant role in how ACE Medical operates. The Filipino value of "bayanihan"—the spirit of communal unity and cooperation—drives our commitment to supporting our customers and their families. We understand the importance of family care and elder support, especially within Filipino and other Pacific Islander communities. This is why our products, from rollators to transport chairs, are carefully chosen to enhance mobility and independence, allowing seniors and those with medical conditions to live with dignity and ease.
Another key value that ACE Medical embodies is "utang na loob"—a deep sense of gratitude and loyalty. Violeta never forgets the community that helped her on her journey. Today, she continues to give back, not only by providing essential medical equipment but also by supporting local healthcare initiatives and advocating for better healthcare access in Hawaii.
Our medical equipment offerings reflect these values. We provide a wide range of products designed to improve quality of life, including:
- Rollators: Durable and easy to use, our rollators help individuals maintain their mobility and independence, whether they’re navigating their home or enjoying the beautiful outdoors of Hawaii.
- CarryOn Mobility Scooter: Perfect for those who need a compact and portable mobility solution, the CarryOn Scooter is lightweight and can be easily transported, making it ideal for travel and everyday use.
- Transport Chairs: Our transport chairs are designed for comfort and convenience, allowing caregivers to easily assist their loved ones without sacrificing mobility or quality of care.
ACE Medical: Serving Hawaii and Beyond
Although based in Hawaii, ACE Medical has grown to serve customers across the islands and internationally, including clients in Japan. Our reach may have expanded, but our core mission remains the same: to provide reliable, high-quality home medical equipment that empowers individuals to live their best lives.
We are proud to be a Filipino-owned business that upholds the values of "ohana" (family) and community care. These values resonate not only with our Filipino customers but with anyone who seeks to improve their quality of life through compassionate, effective healthcare solutions.
Filipino Heritage Month: Honoring Contributions to Healthcare
As we celebrate Filipino Heritage Month, it’s important to acknowledge the immense contributions of Filipino healthcare workers, both in Hawaii and across the world. Filipino nurses and caregivers are known for their dedication, compassion, and expertise, and their role in the healthcare industry cannot be overstated. Violeta’s journey from a nurse in New York to the CEO of ACE Medical is a shining example of the impact that Filipino-Americans have on healthcare, not just as workers but as innovators and leaders.
This month, we also want to celebrate the many Filipino caregivers and families who rely on our products to care for their loved ones. Their stories inspire us to continue innovating and improving our offerings so that we can provide the best possible care to the communities we serve.
A Commitment to Quality and Care
Violeta Arnobit’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to education and healthcare. At ACE Medical, we are proud to continue her legacy by providing top-quality home medical equipment that enhances the lives of our customers and their families.
As we honor Filipino Heritage Month, we invite you to learn more about our products and how they can help you or your loved ones live more independently and comfortably. Whether you’re looking for a rollator, a transport chair, or a mobility scooter, ACE Medical has the solutions you need, backed by the trusted care and support of our team.
If you’re in need of durable and reliable medical equipment, contact ACE Medical today to learn how we can help. Our friendly team is here to guide you through your options and ensure you find the right solution for your needs.