Went to an adult ball in March 2014.  Was fun to get dressed up again, but true to our reputation, Kauokalani belongs behind the microphone and I belong on the dance floor.  The two of us on the same side equals ......somebody's toes being stepped on.  Actually we crashed into each other!

This was taken the day after Thanksgiving 2013 during our Newtown 1st Ward Temple Trip where our entire family was able to attend.  Kauokalani and I are so blessed to have wonderful children.  Soon (Sept 2014) we will add one more to our family.  From left to right:  Kipakuhia (16), Pua (19), Kauokalani, Samantha, Kaili (22), Kaenamoku (21), Kala (14), back row: Mei-Rose (10), Keali'i (6). 

Pictures of my parents about a 40 years apart. Florence and Jubilee Moikeha. They raised three sons and had their ups and downs. They contributed quite a bit to the community of Maui. My father was a consistent face for the County as a Water Department inspector having worked for the County nearly 30 years. My mother was one of the first faces greeting visitors at the Kahului Airport. I had many fond memories of my parents and their love for each other - from the simple notes my Dad would leave for my Mom addressed to Mee Mo....his pet name for her - to the reminders my Mom would leave for us to remember Dad. Mom...Grandma, your grandson, my youngest asked me last week, "where's Grandma"? I told him of the Plan of Salvation and that you were teaching. Thesz responded, "I miss Grandma." I miss you too Mom. I hope I can make you proud of us. You know that we're trying our best. The kids really miss you a lot and are trying their best. 

Aloha A Hui Hou ..... until we meet again.

Aloha ahui hou Maui Grandma

Kaili called late this morning...I was expecting to hear her relate the results of Grandma's visit to the doctors at Kaiser Wailuku. She called to tell me I need to fly over to Maui as soon as possible. I arrived at about 4pm and went straight to Maui Memorial. In the room were Kahue with his son, Kailea, their Mom, Susan, and Kaulana's girls. We talked and shared stories. Verna Tavares was working the floor and she was very instrumental in getting Mom on the floor. About an hour after I arrived, while talking to Kahue and sharing with him a story about his father Kalei, I noticed Grandma's breathing slowing to a halt. Verna just walked in and I asked her to check on Mom. She notified the attending nurse.....the nurse came in to check on her, then looked at me and announced she had passed. My mother now joins my father and brother along with her sister, brothers and cousins on the other side of the veil. Our children, both those on Maui and the ones off island miss their grandmother but are comfortable in the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. We know where we came from, why we are here and where we are going after this life. Our Fathers choir just got their soprano 1 back. Mom, we are so very grateful for what you have shared with us and we surely will miss you but know that you are where you need to be. Aloha ahui hou.

Elder Moikeha

Elder Lee Kaenamoku Mokuahi Moikeha, the first missionary from our family in this new Century and currently serving in the Brisbane Australia Mission. He is continuing a service that was started by the children of James & Annie Moikeha nearly 70 years ago in Wailuku, Maui. His family is so very proud of him and we pray for him and his companions daily. Moku has been in the field nearly 8 months and was recently transfered to Cairns, Queensland, Australia where he is currently a District Leader.

My Brother Lee Kalei Moikeha

You will need to check elsewhere for photos - as although I was a photographer in the earlier days of my youth, I was not able to take any pics of my brother's service or of the beach. It was a solemn occasion that was mixed with smiles and hugs with friends and family. I am eternally grateful for all the support from the many friends and family members that gathered together that day.

Click on the link to be taken to the livescribe file of the note and audio of the services. Aloha Kalei - as the Lord liveth, and as I live, I know that we shall someday see each other again to maybe run on the sands of our beach and play in the surf. When I wake on Maui and look to Haleakala, I will always look for what is now your lei of white clouds around the mountain letting me know where it is breaking that day. I never did share that secret with anyone until now.

When you open the page, you can double click anywhere on the page to hear the service from that point in time. The music selections by Ikaika Blackburn's and Mamo and Nalei were really special.

Kalei Moikeha's Services, Jan. 23, 2010
brought to you by Livescribe

Aloha my brother

Holani called last Friday evening (January 8, 2010) to tell me of the passing of my brother Kalei. I really don't know how to describe the feeling I have right now. Kalei has been such a guide not just for me but for many others - I called a few friends and classmates to let them know that my brother was gone. They expressed the same feelings. We were brothers. Although he was older than me, we did have a closeness that brothers feel.

There were times when we didn't keep very good contact with each other - yet when we did meet up again, it was right where we had left off. I am sure that when the moment in time comes, as it will, I will again see my brother. In my minds eye, I shall always see him kicking off a wave, then paddling out for another as the sun sets in the west. Aloha, a hui hou - Kauokalani

Hey it's been a while

Well - it's been a few months since the last post...okay so maybe a bit longer but you have a few kids in the house and you can't help but be a little distracted from internet stuff. Ka'ili has graduated from MBTA and is going to school across the street from Mom's office. Samantha is the new District Manager for H&R Block. It's been a trying year helping her worry less about home and more about managing for a little bit. The kids are all growing older and getting bigger. Moku has more awards for his animation projects at school. The latest HMSA video award has him doing a transformer thing with a car-very much something most people don't think about a high school kid doing. Kipakuhia got himself into Kamehameha Middle School! The whole family is excited about that - now we just gotta keep him on track to stay there! Kind of feels like Jarom or Omni - a couple of the books following Enos in the BoM. - Aloha. KM

Growing like a weed

Baby Thesz is growing like a weed. He crawls around, tries to stand by himself and can eat, eat, and eat. He recognizes both Thesz and Kealii as his name. He loves to go outside to play, look in mirrors, take a nap on Mom's bed, and take a bath without the baby tub. Kealii loves sweet potato, Peach cobbler, and peas. He prefers turkey over any other kind of meat. Rice cereal is still a staple as is poi. Everyone in our home has a color- his is Orange. He owns an orange jacket and hat.

Mele Kalikimaka

We are so excited that Christmas is here. We have been truly blessed this year and are happy and excited for the new year. From the top left: Kaenamoku (15), Kealiikukahaoa (3 mo.), Kailipakalua (16), Kahliopuanaluahine (13), Front: Kalaolinomaikalani (8), Kauanoe (4), and Kipakuhia (11).

Meet our son- Thesz Kealiikukahaoa Mokuahi Moikeha

Aloha everyone- It has been one month since our son was born and we would like to keep with our Chinese tradition of formally introducing him.

Many of you are wondering what his name is and where we got his name from. For those of you who are interested here it is......

Thesz Keali`ikukahaoa Mokuahi Moikeha was born on September 8, 2007 at 7:27 pm. He was 7 lbs 15 oz , and 19 3/4 inches long.

Thesz is the last name of the World Heavyweight Champion Wrestler Lou Thesz. He was Grandpa Steamboat's mentor and a very close friend. Thesz is a Hungarian name.

Keali`ikukahaoa is a family name from Kauokalani's grandmother's `ohana.

All of our sons carry their mother's maiden name as their middle name- Mokuahi.

Keali`i has really big eyes. When he was born he looked all around the room. He shows interest in anything that is going on. He also has really long fingers and large feet. He likes to be held so that he can see what is happening around him. If you cradle him in your arms you better be feeding him or be ready for his temper.

We are happy that Thesz is here in our family. We are very grateful for all seven of our children. We look forward to all the new things that Thesz will learn in his first year as a Moikeha.

1 year later

Well - it's been almost a year since our last update ... alot has taken place since then. First off the Mei-Rose update. She has been clear of all lesions and we anticipate the removal of her port. She is still visiting the P.A.U. unit at Kapiolani Medical Center where they are monitoring her. Thank you for all your prayers and support the last few years. It has been and continues to be rather "exciting".

In other news - our children saw the passing of another grandfather this past May. Kauokalani's father passed away on Maui. We were fortunate to meet up with family members and friends from Maui and the mainland who attended the funeral.

We wanted to also announce that our family has a tie-breaking vote!!! This past Saturday evening, Samantha gave birth to our 7th child - a boy! Thesz Kealiikukahaoa Mokuahi Moikeha came into the world in record time! We arrived at Queen's Medical Center at 7:15 p.m. - was admitted at 7:22 p.m. and in our arms at 7:27 p.m.. Samantha and the baby came through pretty well. His picture is available online at www.queens.org and click on the "See our Baby Pictures" block on the right hand column. It should still be there until November. Anyway - ahui hou.

Mei-Rose is doing better

I am glad to report that Mei-Rose is doing much better. There is only one spot left that we are concerned about. It is located right above her right knee. We will be watching the spot for about three months and then have another bone scan. If it enlarges by then, we will resume chemotherapy, if it is gone or not grown, we will continue to watch her progress. We are really relieved that she is progressing so well. We thought that this news would be best to announce on her birthday. Mei-Rose Ka`uanoe Yuk Sim Moikeha was born three years ago today. Hauoli La Hanau, Ka`uanoe.

Sorry for not posting

We are truly sorry for not posting any information for such a long time. We have been rather busy and just recovering from all kinds of stuff. I guess we can just list some of the things that have gone on since May.

1. Grandma Steamboat decided to sell the home in Hawaii Kai and has found something smaller. We have been cleaning and dumping things since the end of May. Five large dumpsters later, the house is going on the market tomorrow.

2. On July 1, 2006, we lost our baby. At 20 weeks gestation, he was born too early to survive. I was ordered to "take it easy" for about a month. Physically and mentally it took longer than that. I have just recently started to feel better (sometimes).

3. Kaenamoku started football at Pearl City High School. He doesn't attend Pearl City but he is allowed to play for them since we live in the district. He attends a public charter school named Myron B. Thompson Academy.

4. Ka`ilipakalua received her Young Womenhood Recognition Award and Medallion. She is 15 1/2 and now begging for a driver's permit.

5. Samantha was released as Primary President and now is a Cub Scout Den Leader and teacher in the Relief Society.

6. Kauokalani was released as High Priest Group Leader and is now the Cub Master and Sunday School Teacher.

7. Samantha has started teaching hula again. She has four classes. Know of anyone wanting to dance hula? Have them give us a call, email or leave a comment on the blog. She is accepting anyone willing to learn.

8. We celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary!!!!!!

9. Mei-Rose is potty training?!?!?!?!?

Finally, Mei-Rose and the histiocytosis. She is doing really well. We have fasted and prayed for her health to be restored and we are truly grateful for the blessings that Heavenly Father has generously poured out upon her. Doctor Glaser had ordered another six months of chemotherapy for her. She just completed the protocol and went for a bone scan and skeletal survey on Wednesday, September 6, 2006. The results of those tests are not back yet but we will give you all the good news as it is made available to us. We thank you for your prayers and support.


As we struggled through the last couple of months with all the trials we had, many of you supported us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Prayers were answered because of your faith and our testimonies have been strengthened. We are so grateful for each one of you. Mahalo.

Check back soon for an update to Mei-Rose's prognosis.

Aloha Dad (link to photos)

We bid our Aloha to our Grandpa last Saturday, May 20, 2006 fronting the Maunalua Bay Canoe Halau. Samuel Kauaawa Mokuahi Jr. - SteamBoat, however you knew him, we knew him as Daddy, and Grandpa. We had a large tent set up for the service. Uncle Mike Chun (one of Daddy's paddlers) delivered the eulogy with Kahu Billy Mitchell (another paddler) from the Big Island delivering the sermon. So many people called, or stopped by to share their stories of "Coach Sammy" and their experiences. The park was extremely crowded with boats, parked cars, and canoes. We even had a shuttle bus from Koko Head Elementary School. Hoala started the day with music followed by Vaihi and finally Cy Bridges, Bobby and Jay Akoi singing to lead into the service. Even Harry Brown was able to make it to Hawaii Kai from a program for his son in Waikiki to sing the closing medley. Mahalo to Cy for the song that he shared with us for Dad.

We would like to thank everyone for sharing their aloha with us. If you ever drive by Hawaii Kai in the evening and look out into Maunalua Bay, look for the blinker buoy in the channel and that's where he is. He wanted to be where he could watch his grandchildren paddle.
We miss you very much Daddy and hope to make you proud of us.

Grandpa Steamboat-no longer in any pain

It is definitely hard to report to all of our friends and family that Grandpa Steamboat passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2006.
It was a long hard struggle to see this big man suffer through that Alzheimer's Disease. My mother suffered along with him.

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060504/SPORTS01/605040317/1189/SPORTS

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/05/04/1564717.html

http://www.khon.com/khon/display.cfm?storyID=13297&sid=1152

We certainly will miss our Dad. Call if you have questions.

Test Results

We are both happy and sad about the test results. First let us tell you all that Mei-Rose has beaten all the odds so far. Her bone scan reveals that she has no more lesions on her skull or pelvic bones. It also shows that most of the lesions are gone or smaller in size. However, the lesions that are on her legs and arms are still there, causing Doctor Glaser to do more research for her treatment. It was explained to me our two options. First- If she continues chemotherapy treatment for 6 more months, the chances of the lesions returning are 20%. Second- If we choose not to continue the chemotherapy treatment the odds of the lesions returning are 50%. Either way she will need another bone scan and skeletal survey in three months to check progress. There is no way to know where they would "attack" next. If her spleen or liver are affected, fatality rates increase. However, we are sure that the chemotherapy has worked to eliminate and lessen the lesions. Therefore, the sad news is that Mei-Rose will be going through another six months of chemotherapy. We are grateful that she tolerates the treatment and doesn't have too many side effects from the Vinblastine. The prednisone is a different story but it is short term. She will begin on Friday March 3, 2006.

On a side note, Grandpa Steamboat had a series of small strokes that landed him @ Queen's hospital. Some of the food he was eating at the time, went into his lungs and he had pneumonia. If that wasn't enough, the stroke medicine that they have been giving him caused stomach ulcers and vomited blood for approximately 24 hours. He remains @ Queens and is unable to walk without assistance. He should be going home soon.

February 17th

We are so sorry for not posting anything sooner. Mei Mei has finished her Chemotherapy and will have a Bone Scan on February 17, 2006. It requires sedation and she will be at Kapiolani for most of the day. The results of the bone scan will determine the next steps in her treatment. She seems to be getting better everyday. We look forward to telling you about the great results on Friday or Saturday this week. A Hui Hou.

A Mynah Bird in one Papaya Tree

Well 'tis the season-since I worked all last weekend on Maui, I was able to take today off!!! We had to take Kipakuhia to the MD specialist to get him checked. Yup, true to form-he doesn't have any discernable symptoms. Well, it could be worse so we'll be thankful for what we have (or haven't) and start getting ready for the season that causes all parents some dread - the long lines, the irate people behind you, the yells and screams-yes, the parking lot at WalMart. Then again, with gas still $2.85 a gallon on Maui a little road rage is expected.

Anyway, we hope that everyone has a joyous Christmas season and remember, if the driver of the car that cut in front of you for the parking stall at Sear's is trying to get in line at the register, smile, be polite and just be thankful that your car is paid off....it may not satisfy but at least you get to go home with the Spirit of giving.

Aloha and Mele Kalikimaka

Mei-Rose scheduled for another scan

Mei-Rose is still undergoing her chemotherapy. Her latest dose was on Wednesday, November 23, 2005. Thanksgiving weekend was just a little hectic. Thank goodness the semester is almost over and we can rest a little. Mei will be going through a series of scans to check her progress. We are hoping and praying that the lessions are getting smaller and disappearing. IT would be absolutely wonderful if the lessions were gone this time.

Mei-Rose made the front cover of a national mail out requesting donations for the Histiocytosis Association of America. We will be sending the forms out with our Christmas mailing, but if by chance you don't get one- Please email or leave a comment on this blog and we will make sure to send one to you. We are still waiting for the national office to mail more to us. I don't think they were aware of how close of a community we have here in Hawaii. Mahalo for your thoughts.

Post Halloween information

Mei-Rose enjoyed our Church Fall Festival where the children were able to play some games and experience a safe Halloween celebration. She wore a purple tutu thing, with a scrunchy that matched and her purple boots. There was a trunk or treat activity where all the children went from car to car in our church parking lot and received way too much candy and other treats. She really enjoyed it with her brothers and sisters.

We took Mei to see Dr. Glaser on Wednesday November 2. She seems to be doing okay. We think that because she had a flu shot the last time, her bloodwork might be slightly off. Other than that she seems like a normal 2 year old. Sometimes very animated and other times, very temperamental. We thank all of you for your prayers.

On another note, I thank you all for your calls of support regarding my parents, and their business. We certainly are sad about it but life goes on and we will find other ventures for Beachboys Inc. When we do, I will let you all know. A hui hou.

Mei-Rose turns 2

On October 12 Mei-Rose made two years old. She went to the Dr. on the same day. She is doing remarkably well considering all that she has to deal with. She had her chemotherapy treatment and also went to visit Grandpa and Grandma Steamboat when she was done. We thought about what we should do to celebrate her birthday, since Chucky Cheese (playing in the balls and stuff) is something that she shouldn't do. We decided to stay at home, make a cake, and watch a couple of movies. She now is the proud owner of her very own Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Car. While she waits for her treatments at Kapiolani, she loves to ride the car at the play room. She hates to leave the car and we thought that she deserved her own. She was so excited when she saw it. Her next treatment, November 2. Oh- by the way did I tell you all she goes to nursery now without crying? Ahhh a milestone.

Mei-Rose continues her treatment

Mei-Rose will meet with Dr. Glaser on Wednesday October 12, 2005 for her next dose of Vinblastine. She is doing so well. We will update after her appointment. Aloha to all.

Wonderful news!!!!!

We are so happy about Mei-Rose's condition. She has improved tremendously. Her bone scan and skeletal survey show a dramatic decrease in the amount of lesions on her bones. It also shows that the lesions that are still there are significantly reduced in size. We are optimistic that with the remainder of her chemotherapy treatment those remaining lesions will be completely wiped out. For now though, her treatment has changed. She will still receive Vinblastine and the dosage remains the same, but the frequency has changed to once every three weeks. Today is considered week 7. Her next dose will be administered in Week 10. Along with that medication, she will receive Prednisone orally 2.7ml, three times a day for five days. We still have a way to go and could not have done it without all of your prayers and support. na ke akua e ho'opomaika'i ia 'oukou

Bone-Scan/Skeletal Survey

Mei-Rose had a very long day. She spent close to 8 hours at Kapiolani Medical Center. She had a blood draw, skeletal survey (complete xrays of her whole body), and a bone scan. It required sedation. Although the test results for the bone scan and x rays will not be ready until next week, Mei's initial blood work looks very good. One of the indicators has improved dramatically. We are so happy that there is some improvment. We look forward to sharing the good news with you next week.

Week six- what next?

Mei-Rose is finished with her initial six treatments of Vinblastine. She had her sixth treatment on Wednesday and is doing fairly well. We received word today that Mei-Mei will have a Bone Scan procedure done on Tuesday, September 13, 2005. She will also have a skeletal survey done. The last time that was done, she screamed the whole time. It was very hard on her. This time she will be sedated for the bone scan and probably a little groggy for the xrays. Dr. Glaser has also lessened her prednisone dosage. She will be completely off of that drug by next week Wednesday. She might need it again later but for now the plan is to reduce to none of the drug. Mahalo for all of your prayers.

Good Blood results

This is a photo of Mei-Rose with her fire hat waiting for her Chemotherapy to arrive. She is doing remarkably well and I think that today, even though the wait was long, she understood that she was there for the doctor to help her. Her blood work came back better than it has been. Her red blood cell count is normal (it hasn't been normal since before she was admitted in June). She lost a little weight. That is surprising being that she is still eating all the time. Doctor Glaser has cut back on the amounts of prednisone that Mei-Mei will take. She will slowly reduce her prednisone intake until she doesn't need to take it all the time. Thank you again for all your prayers and support.

Week 4 pau!!!

Mei-Mei had her 4th treatment on Wednesday. The EMLA cream didn't stay in the bandage as well as the other times so there was a little poke involved. She cried but was okay soon after we started giving her the meds. She seems to be hungry all the time. Her face has become rather "round" and chuncky. She still has all her hair which means she probably won't lose it. Wednesday night she slept all night. She didn't cry and didn't even change position. She was able to relax and get the needed rest. The medication that seems to work the best is MOTRIN. We have another medication that is stronger if we need to use it. We all got a good night sleep last night and hopefully tonight we can do the same. Mahalo for all the support.

She gained weight

Mei-Rose went for her third treatment. She has managed to gain almost 5 pounds since she has started the prednisone two weeks ago. She seems much better with the nursing staff and the general trauma of visiting the hospital once a week. We are trying to adjust to Mei's appetite. She eats constantly. She is really grouchy and crying most of the day. Distraction works but we run out of things to distract her with. Dr. Glaser has prescribed her some stronger pain medication. She has been experiencing jaw pain that is a side effect of the medications that she is taking. She should be able to sleep better. Now that school has started and our schedules are meshing, there seems to be a more steady beat that we march to. Sometimes , someone will step off beat but they are still in line. We are all just really tired but still hanging in there. This morning as we were pulling kids out of bed, we both had to stop and think about the date. We both had no clue that today was our 16th wedding anniversary. Wow. Talk about tired. Oh well. The one that usually forgets wasn't alone this year, and is off the hook!!!! Mahalo Again for your prayers.

Grandpa's Beach

Mei-Rose went to Grandpa's beach (Waikiki) to visit everybody. This is a picture of Aunty Mekea, Cousin Zaleigh, and Mei-Rose.

2nd Treatment

What a couple of days it has been!!! Mei-Rose had her 2nd treatment on Wednesday. She now weighs a little over 34 pounds. She has gained about 2 pounds since last week. She is getting more comfortable with the nursing staff but is irritated that we are still visiting the hospital.

Her mood and appetite have been the rough part for us. The prednisone makes her really, really, really hungry. She is also very grouchy and moody. It is like she turned into a teenager overnight. Thursdays and Fridays seem to be the worst days out of the week. Usually by Friday night or Saturday morning---- She's okay and we all wipe our brows and lick our wounds, pick up the pieces and move on. Thursdays and Fridays become a complete blur starting sometime in the early morning hours where Mei-Rose is screaming and crying because she is uncomfortable and experiencing jaw pain. After treating that side effect we then realize that her reason for crying has changed.....food!!!! So we get up,(or shall I say Kauokalani gets up!) while I try to get Mei-Rose to at least let our neighbors and landlord sleep for a while. The T.V. keeps us awake, long enough to watch her eat her snack and then we all go back to bed. Sometimes these midnight snacks can range from a simple piece of fruit, or crackers to 1/2 a sandwich or even some of Mom's stash of Strawberry ice cream. It is not unheard of for Mei-Rose to eat 2 yogurts in one sitting, along with other stuff. Actually the other day, Mei-Rose ate just as much as Kaenamoku.

We all have different times of waking up but the start time for our family is 5:00 am. At that time, we meet as a family for scripture reading and family prayer, then someone takes Ka`ili to seminary while the other kids are free to either go back to bed for a while or do their chores for the day.

Mei-Rose wakes up about 7:00 am. Breakfast must be ready for her or the crying begins. We do our best to be preventive in the planning but sometimes we just mess up so bad that it is catastrophic. We've only done this twice so far, but both times, she has been so unconsolable that simple things like pouring some milk for her is difficult. We are trying to keep Thursdays and Fridays clear of expectations and plans. Emotions, noise, anxiety and stress are all at their maximum levels on those two days. Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!! (you do notice what day this is published on?)

Okay- so as promised here are some pictures of the procedure. Until there is more information or news- Aloha to all, mahalo for your concern and prayers.

FIRST TREATMENT

Kaili and Mei Mei just before the meds at Kapiolani.

Mei-Rose had her first Vinblastine treatment on Wednesday. The three hour ordeal was that long because her chemotherapy medication was not ready for her. She was more upset about the wait and the nurses than the actual needle that went into her port. As she gets more comfortable with the nursing staff at the P.A.U. unit, she will probably become a pro at this.

So for those of you who are interested, this is how it works. At least 1 hour before her appointment we apply a cream called EMLA, on her port site and place a clear bandage over it to keep it from running all over. The cream numbs the area. At the appointment, through the site, the nurse cleans the site (the excess cream). An access needle is inserted directly into the port. Blood is taken for a series of tests and then the medication is administered. The nurse then flushes with saline and then an Heparin flush. When the needle went in she didn't even know. She didn't feel a thing. We certainly recommend getting a port to anyone who needs to go through a chemotherapy treatment. * Next time, we'll get a picture of the process for you.

Mommy on the other hand didn't do as well as Mei. We think that reality has set in and that the sleep deprivation has finally taken its toll. Things will be okay. We all have faith that our prayers will be answered. Ka`ili went to the State Race in Maui and placed ninth out of 14. Her crew was right with the pack so that is pretty good. Her club, Hui Nalu place third in the AAA division and her crew contributed 7 points toward that total.

This coming week the kids at Pearl City Elementary School will be in their 2nd full week of school. They like the school and the teachers. I am so happy that one of my classmates from Koko Head and Kaiser is Kala's teacher.

Oh-congratulations to Kaenamoku who wins the reward for finding Mommy's cheap all purpose digital camera that Kala hid and couldn't remember where he hid it. (wow that weas a run on sentence!!!!!) Now you can enjoy more pictures. Until then, aloha.

Mei-Rose out of surgery and doing fine

Mei-Rose went to Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children on Thursday, July 28th. She was early for her procedure and the surgeon, Dr. Shim, was able to get her into the operating room early. Dr. Pi used general anesthisia on Mei. She put up a fight and then when she was asleep, I left the room. The operation was about an hour and went without any problems. Mei-Rose was in recovery for about 2 hours and then was released to go home. She has a 3 inch incision on her right breast and about 8 inches above that incision there is a small incision in her neck. Her port will be used to administer the medication. She knows that it is there and pats her chest to make sure that it is okay. She calls it her "HOKU". We met with Dr. Glaser and and she will receive her first Chemotherapy treatment on Wednesday @ 9:40am. If you saw Mei-Rose today or even yesterday for that matter, you wouldn't have thought that she just came out of surgery.

Today Mei-Rose saw her Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Durkin. He was the doctor that performed the bone biopsy back in June. He checked her biopsy site and says she is healing just fine. She doesn't need to see him again unless there is another biopsy that needs to be performed or complications associated with Histiocytosis arise. She is such a strong little girl. We are so proud of her. We thank you again for your thoughts and prayers.

These are pictures taken today 7/29/05 of Mei-Rose and "HOKU".

Consultation with Dr. Shim

Today Mei-Rose went to see Dr. Walton Shim, the Surgeon that will perform the insertion of her Port-a-cath. He cleared her for surgery- scheduled for Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 12:00 Noon. She will have her port inserted on the right side of her chest. We originally scheduled her surgery for 7:30am so that she wouldn't have too much difficulty fasting. Dr. Shim explained the procedure and the placement, possible complications and things to look for. We also went for pre operation blood work at the lab. The guys and ladies with the "blue gloves" set her off again, but at least she walked into the lab without crying. She associates the blue nitrile lab gloves with the pain of having some procedure done on her. She also has a general dislike for anyone in a white lab coat. She doesn't scream at the sight of the lab coat but she doesn't trust the lab coat wearer very much. The anxiety levels in our home is quite high as we prepare for the coming chemo visits....and the side effects that go along with it.....

Although we are concerned about Mei-Rose we thought that we need to let everyone know about our other children and their successes and accomplishments also. Ka`ili will be traveling to Lahaina, Maui for the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Assoiciation State Championship Regatta. She will be representing Hui Nalu Canoe Club in the Girls 13 division. She has done well this season as a steerswoman. Thanks to Uncle Bruce, she was able to take a break from steering on July 4th at the Walter J. McFarlane regatta in Waikiki. She was able to paddle in seat three where she helped her crew to a second place finish to receive a silver medal. Ka`ili and Kaenamoku started school today at Myron B. Thompson Academy. Kaili will start Seminary on Monday, August 1, 2005.

Kaenamoku has really helped out with watching Mei-Rose at home when other appointments and tasks took us away from home. Mei-Rose loves her brother and has subsequently learned a new HI-FIVE sequence that brings us to sore stomach laughter. We are very grateful for Kaenamoku. He is the only Deacon in our ward and one of four boys in the whole Young Mens program. He has grown tremendously and now stands at almost 6 feet tall and weighs 240 lbs. He is looking forward to playing football.

Pua just returned home from Ho`omaka`ika`i 2005 at Kamehameha Schools. She was able to see Kalei Vaivai, a friend from Maui and also Ashley Oshiro, a friend from Pearl City. She also was able to see the Blake's as they just moved back to Honolulu from Maui. Pua would like to attend Kamehameha and has made it a goal to get really good grades this year so that she will be ready for the test. Pua helps out with Faith In God night at church and is our family baker. Need brownies, cookies or a dessert? Call Pua's catering. Nah!!!

Kipakuhia is enjoying Cub Scouting. He attended a Day Camp, where he was so excited he could have walked outside to the car with only his BVD's on!!!! He also participated in Memorial Day at Punchbowl. He really looks forward to Mondays and goint to cub Scouts. He will be participating in our Space Derby real soon. Do I hear anyone wanting to help build the rocket? Nah!

Kala, Kipakuhia, and Pua will start school on Friday, July 29, 2005. Pua will be in the 6th grade, Kipakuhia will be in the 4th grade, and Kala will be entering 1st grade. Kala is excited to start at a new school this year. They are especially looking forward to waking up just a little later. Last year the three children caught the bus to Hawaii Kai to attend Koko Head School. To do that they woke up at 5 am every morning. He wants to play soccer and I think I might expose him to that. He loves to spend time with Zaleigh, his cousin. He can't stop talking about her or anything else for that matter.

Both of us will be attending Honolulu Community College this fall semester working on our Occupational and Environmental Safety Management Degrees. We both were fortunate to receive grants and scholarships that allow us to attend. Primary keeps Samantha busy and Kauokalani stays occupied with those Young Men. As a Unit Commissioner, we wonder where he is but he always manages to come home.

We appreciate all your thoughts a prayers. Our family is alive and well and we will continue to update as the situation evolves.

The wait is over! Now the fight begins.

We didn't want to wait one more minute to let you all know that the waiting is over, and we now know what we are fighting.

Mei-Rose visited with Dr. Glaser today. She gained some weight and is now 32 pounds. He had some test results to share with us.

The pathologist that the bone sample was sent to- has positively identified the cell that he needed to see- in order to make the Histiocytosis diagnosis final. Now that we know what to research, we have lots of homework to do on Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH).

Today- Dr. Glaser explained the game plan to us as the following.

1. Mei-Rose will go for a skelatal survey on Wednesday, July 20,2005. This will help determine if the lessions are getting larger or smaller, and if they are increasing or decreasing in number. ***There is a chance that this survey could indicate that the bones are already healing. If the healing is significant, we stop here at this stage and continue to monitor Mei-Rose. If not, we proceed with step 2.

2. On July 28, 2005, Mei-Rose will undergo a surgical procedure to place a "port" in her chest. The port is used to administer the chemotherapy medications through the IV. A port is used rather than a traditional IV if medications are going to be used for an extended length of time. This eliminates the need to start an IV every week for 6 months. When this is complete and the port area is healed, we will then move on to step 3.

3. We don't have as much information on this as we would like but this is what we know so far. She will undergo 6 months of chemotherapy with two drugs. One called Vinblastine. The other is an oral medication that you all are probably familiar with. It is called Prednisone or methylprednisolone. The Vinblastine will be administered through the port and the Prednisone is oral.

As we digest all this information and make sense of it, there will be more questions for us to ask our daughter's team. Until there is more info..........Mahalo for your thoughts and prayers.

Update July 12, 2005

Mei-Rose went to see Dr. Glaser again, yesterday. We learned that we need to be even more patient than we have been. The pathologists that have seen her slides are all in a consensus that yet another specialist needs to view the slides. We are currently waiting for the return of the slides from Texas, and then those slides will be sent to Pittsburg via FEDEX. We hope that our daughter's condition will improve or at least her spirit continues to be uplifted. Hopefully the pathologist in Pittsburg will be able to help our doctors determine our best course of action. This picture was taken of Mei-Rose and Samantha a few days before she was released from the hospital last week.

Mei Mei's update2

I spoke to Dr. Glaser (her Oncologist at Kapiolani Med) late this afternoon. He received pathology results that did not immediately point to histiocytosis. The pathologist said that the current slides of her bone biopsy showed some evidence but did not definitively identify histiocytosis as the culprit. So it's a matter of waiting for the results of the electron microscopy. Hopefully, the reading will help us understand what's causing Mei's condition.

Other than the anemia, Mei looks like your typical healthy infant. This picture of her was taken last October at Kakaako Park. She had a ball getting this picture taken. Of course having your brothers unintentionally doing their best imitations of Larry, Curly and Moe does make for an entertaining morning....KM

Mei-Rose Kauanoe Yuk Sim Moikeha

Okay. It got pretty difficult to explain and re-explain to each one of our friends about our daughter's condition. So here is the basic history. We will post more info as we have the time and as we get it.

Our daughter, Mei-Rose, is 20 months old. She is the youngest of six children. She was teething and crying at night for several weeks. She also had a few ear infections that I attributed to her crying at night. One day (June 16, 2005) had difficulty standing and subsequently walking. On June 17, 2005 I took her to Dr. Blane Chong who with consultation with Dr. Okimura, ordered a blood test. The blood results showed that she was iron deficient. Doctor Chong suggested that we take her to the emergency room so that a more thorough blood work up could be done. When we got there, the emergency room doctor ordered a CT scan so that we could figure out why she had difficulty standing and walking. The two problems seemed to be completely unrelated to each other. The CT scan seemed normal but Dr. Young suggested admission so that more test could be completed. CT scans, Xrays, Bone Marrow biopsy, and bone biopsy were completed and Luekemia was ruled out. Many days passed with us waiting for results. Different stains were used on the samples taken from Mei Mei's bones. We were released from the hospital on Tuesday June 28, 2005 and we are now awaiting confirmation from a specialist on the mainland. Histiocytosis is the culprit at this time. The disease is rare with some chance for full recovery. Treatment varies but is similar to cancer victims- chemotherapy. Our daughter is extreemly healthy. We would have not found out about this if we didn't go to the emergency room for the anemia. At Mei Mei's last appointment (July 6,2005) she weighed 31.5 pounds and we still had no word from the specialist. Hopefully something will come back soon.

Well here we are-the whole gang of 8. This is another chapter in our family's ongoing saga. Much to the disappointment of the older kids, we've moved our family from Maui back to Oahu. We're now living in Pearl City where we are busy as ever. Kaili and Moku are in their second years at an internet based school. The younger kids will be starting at Pearl City Elementary this year and Mei-rose will be the focus for our family this year as we'll later post in this blog. For your info the line up is as follows: Front row: Kipakuhia (8yrs), Kalaolinomaikalani (5yrs), Kahiliopuanaluahine (10yrs)
Back row: Kaenamoku (13yrs), Samantha (not eligible to paddle in the Masters event yet), Kailipakalua (14yrs), Mei-Rose (20mos), Kauokalani (11 oops).