This special edition Newsletter is dedicated to the nurses, physicians, first responders, and dedicated disaster relief volunteers whose invaluable contributions strengthen our community. |
Our newsletter begins with an update on the Hanai Fund and our ongoing collaboration with Maui Medic. Last week, we convened two significant meetings to introduce the expansion of Maui Medic Hui’s circle of support and a conversation with medical workers and survivors from the Paradise Fires.
During our virtual meeting with the Paradise Fire medical team, we heard firsthand experiences of serving on the front lines since day one, spanning a remarkable five-year journey. Their accounts underscored the critical need for immediate mental health support to address post-traumatic stress disorder and to provide specialized care for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with pre-existing illnesses. |
As the Paradise nurses recounted their experience, tears of remembrance, loss, and grief came over them. During the virtual gathering, the Maui nurses had convened around an iPad in a makeshift triage tent. In the backdrop, other medical personnel moved around them, grabbing supplies and stopping for a quick hug before exiting the tent where patients awaited their care.
It was a profound moment for all of us on the call, witnessing these heroic narratives and the genuine comfort and support each participant offered one another. These shared experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the days following Hurricane Iniki when West Kauai, despite overwhelming challenges, united selflessly to aid their neighbors and contributed to restoring lives and homes.
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Mother Teresa profoundly stated, "It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving." |
The dedication of Maui Medic exemplifies the remarkable individuals who remain unwavering in their mission to care for those in need in Lahaina. They embody the true spirit of charity, and it is our kuleana to stand with them as hanai brothers and sisters. |
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The current situation in Lahaina calls for more volunteers: nurses, physicians, and therapists. If you'd like to contribute to the Hanai Fund, all donations go to Maui Medic Healers Hui.
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Disaster Preparedness and Wildfires: Protecting Your Health and Environment |
In 2019, Kekaha had a potentially devastating fire on the Kekaha Sugar Mill property, which was swiftly contained by our dedicated firefighters. Since Kekaha hosts multiple brownfield sites with known contaminants, it's crucial for everyone to stay informed and prepared. Smoke resulting from fires consists of minuscule particles and hazardous gases like carbon monoxide. Inhaling this smoke can pose significant health risks, especially for children and individuals with preexisting lung (asthma, COPD, lung disease) or heart conditions. Symptoms may include coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and dizziness. Children, in particular, are more vulnerable due to their developing lungs and extended outdoor activities. Pregnant women and the elderly are also at heightened risk.
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In the event of a fire in your neighborhood, and you are safely indoors, please follows these guidelines: |
- Keep all windows and doors securely closed, sealing any gaps to prevent smoke from outside to enter your home.
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If you do go outside when there’s smoke in the air, wear appropriate respiratory protection, such as N95, N99, and N100 masks, or full-face and half-face respirators equipped with HEPA filter cartridges that effectively filter out fine airborne particles.
- Keep children and animals from playing in ash, and if they do come in contact with it wash them down immediately, especially their hands.
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When working near or on a brownfield burn site, use gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants when handling ash to avoid direct skin contact.
- Thoroughly wash any home-grown fruits or vegetables before consumption.
- Avoid dispersing ash into the air; moisten the ash before attempting removal and refrain from using leaf blowers or shop vacuums. It can kick up the harmful particles into the air
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Refrain from washing ash into storm drains or ditches.
- Dispose of collected ash in regular trash bags.
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Additional Reading & Resources |
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