Aloha, my cherished ohana,
It’s Auntie Iwalani here, extending my warmest aloha to each of you. As many of you know, my life’s journey has been marked by battles that have tested my strength, resilience, and spirit. Not once, but twice, I’ve stood face-to-face with cancer and emerged with a deeper understanding of life’s preciousness and the importance of community support.
Inheriting the healing garden from my beloved parents in 2006 was a gift that transformed my life. It became more than just a place of natural beauty; it evolved into a sanctuary for healing, peace, and solitude. It is here, amid the whispering winds and the gentle sway of the palm trees, that I found my calling to give back and support others on their journeys.
This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we celebrated this spirit of giving and healing with our ‘Pretty in Pink’ luncheon. This event wasn’t just about raising awareness for breast cancer; it was a celebration of life, hope, and the power of community. With every seat filled, we shared stories, tears, and laughter, united by our common dreams and struggles.
The luncheon was a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, and fashion, lovingly woven together by the talented Puamana Crabbe and our graceful hula dancers. Their performances were not just entertainment; they were expressions of our collective soul, celebrating our journey towards health and wellness.
As I stood there, surrounded by faces both familiar and new, I was reminded of the countless generations who have fought bravely for what is right. Now, it’s our turn to carry this torch – not only to fight for the cure for cancer but to nurture a world where compassion and support flourish.
Let’s remember that we are all travelers on this earthly journey, unique in our paths but united in our destination. We may only walk this path once, but we don’t have to walk it alone. Together, we can create a tapestry of hope that comforts those in need and lights the way for future generations.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the ‘Pretty in Pink’ luncheon. Your presence was a gift that filled the garden with love and light. And a special mahalo to Hawaii News Now, particularly Elyssa Arquero, for beautifully capturing the essence of our gathering. Your storytelling helps spread our message of hope far beyond our island shores.
As we look to the future, let’s continue to cultivate this garden of healing together. For more information on how you can join us in this mission, please visit our website at iwalanifoundation.org.
With all my love,
Auntie Iwalani