Hawaii is full of amazing people that are struggling through debilitating diseases. While there are many types of heartache out there, cancer has to be at the top of the list. That is why the Benefit Celebration for Hoku Ching is something that will reach the hearts of many here in our islands. Come out and support a great cause and help them make this benefit one to remember.
We all know what the “ALOHA SPIRIT” is about. For most of us, we not only care about our immediate family around us, but our “Aloha” extends beyond to our extended family, calabash cousins, friends & neighbors. And yet, especially in Hawaii, extending “Aloha” to a complete stranger comes easier for us, despite what the rest of the world may or may not do. Why? Quite simply, it is the kindness and love that is ingrained in our very island culture. We are brought up to show Aloha to everyone we come across — and it is that very type of Aloha that can make all the difference in the world. Now, you have the opportunity to lend your KOKUA to Hoku and his family — whom you may or may not personally know. We humbly ask for your prayers for Hoku and his family as they continue to fight this battle. Mahalo!
A Little About Hoku Ching and His Family
From the first time you meet Janson Kahokuokalani Ching (or “Hoku”), there’s an immediate way with people. And, when you finally do part ways, you do so with the feeling that he not only genuinely listened to every word you said but that he truly cares those blessed enough to have Hoku’s friendship in their lives, he has become an irreplaceable part of them. And, for those who don’t know him personally — it is our hope that you will have a glimpse of just how remarkable Hoku really is.
When the news came that Hoku was diagnosed with HODGKINS LYMPHOMA, it was the first time that many of us felt the cold reality of just how fragile our lives truly are. When we imagine ourselves in our early 30’s, the fears of sickness and mortality seem so far off on the horizon. For many of us, It is a time that should be spent finding the love of our lives, raising a young family, climbing the ranks in your dream career, buying your first home or finally taking that dream vacation you’ve thought about for so long. For Hoku and his ‘ohana — MORGAN, his wife of 5 years, and two keiki, Seth (3) and Peyton (6 mos) — those simple times were put on hold.
A graduate of Kamehameha SCHOOLS in 1997, Hoku grew up in his hometown of MILILANI. He currently resides in WAIKELE where he is actively involved, reaching out to the needs of the community with the Waikele Association for community events. Hoku enjoys spending time with his family and friends but his true joy comes when he is able to be a blessing to anyone and everyone.
“It has always been a value of mine to position myself to be a blessing and to look for opportunities to meet the needs of others. I want my children to grow up with this as part of their blood. It’s who we are and should be as God has truly blessed us. Not even sickness should hold us back, we all have something we can give, as long as it’s from our heart.”
Hoku has been an employee of Verizon Wireless for about 7 years now. He is currently out on disability until his treatments are completed. His wife Morgan, returned to work part-time after being out on maternity leave for several months. Now, she juggles the new responsibility of being the breadwinner with the work & time needed to continue to care for Hoku and the family while Hoku undergoes chemotherapy treatment, radiation, various checkup appointments and the never-ending tests that go along with it.
A Benefit Celebration for Hoku Ching
- Where: Hawaii Okinawan Center – Waipio
- When: Sunday, September 9, 2012, 5pm-9pm
- Details: Ono Food, Entertainment, Silent Auction, Raffle Prizes & Giveaways!
- Tickets: Suggested Donation of $40 (Adults) – $20 (Children)
Hawaiian Okinawan Center Location
Leave a Reply