Many of you will remember the original blog post titled Carmen's Makana (gift). In those days after October 9th, 2012, Heather and I understood that since we were living so far from all of you that you wanted/needed to do something/anything to help.
http://carmenleolaniwhite.blogspot.com/2012/10/carmens-makana-gift.html
At the time of posting the original Carmen's Makana post, Heather and I were only trying to convey that we felt there was a different way to honor Carmen instead of flowers or other traditional gestures given during difficult times.
What happened after writing the post astonished Heather and myself. The generosity and support was incredible, exceeding anything we ever thought was possible.
The Carmen's Makana fund will be able to perpetuate Carmen's strength, love and spirit through the giving of a $300 gift to a family on April 1st (Carmen's birthday) and October 9th each year, for the next 18 years!!!!
Many people opt to contribute to an established charity. This is a wonderful idea and we likely would have been fine with this. For whatever reason, Heather and I decided at the time that taking this path did not seem like it was the right thing to do. Everything Carmen did was touching, meaningful and with purpose and giving to a large, well intentioned, charity would be beautiful but we felt it needed to be more intimate.
Carmen would want to be able to walk right up to someone and give them a big hug. And that is what Carmen's Makana is. A great big, warm, loving hug from Carmen.
We are proud to let you know that Carmen provided her Makana (gift) to the first child.
Heather and I worked with Dr. Wendi Hirsch with Kapiolani Hospital to help choose the right child for Carmen's Makana. The gift is only a small gesture to let the family know that someone cares about them and understands what they are going through.
Below are the words in the card and the picture we sent with Carmen's Makana.
Live with Strength
Live with Laughter
Live with Love in your Heart
Live with knowing a guardian angel is watching over you.
Carmen's Makana
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