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Cool Stuff: Aua's Brave Lil' Nina

Nina Luaifoa and her dad Ralph Luaifoa

Honolulu, Hawaii — I first met Ralph Luaifoa when I commended him on his American Samoa pride. Of course we were both shopping to send mealofas to our Aiga Samoa.  

As anyone with Samoa family roots... of course there was a village connection. Seuga, the wife and mom, is a Salelologa girl of the Semeatu Family.  I probably served the whole family during my days as a Salelologa Wharf Rat at our faleaiga.

Then I learned more that hit very close to home.  Three year old Lil' Nina just came from chemo at Kapiolani Hospital.  Her parents have relocated to Kapahulu area in their complete dedication to Nina's future in fighting Leukemia.

I guarantee all of you Coolios have or are going through a cancer drama in your family.  My bosses, the Annesley family lost their dear Rudy, my children and I are doing our best for Mrs. Cool Stuff's condition... and your aunt's, uncles, cousins, parents may have fought or are fighting their own similar health battles. 

My Mom and Mother-in-Law are ahead now of their past breast cancer issues.  lots of prayers answered

Lil' Nina's Mom is a working accountant, while Dad Ralph is a stay at home Dad and caregiver.

ASG helped the Luaifoa Family fly to Hawaii last August.  Hawaii has helped Nina with medical coverage.  But the Luaifoa Family is basically on their own.

What non profit in American Samoa or Hawaii could help in Lil' Nina and her family's battle for survival?

I need you Coolios to advise me.  I will forward this to Bluesky CEO Justin Tuiasosopo, Mufi Hannemann, and maybe Bank of Hawaii's CEO, Peter Ho, for their input.

In families battling cancer, Covid 19 comes in a very dangerous 2nd place.  Of course we all wear masks, get our Covid Vaccinations, and religiously practice social distancing.  

What we all pray for is that the massive research and investment in Covid 19 vaccines will carry over to Leukemia, Lung and Breast Cancer treatments...and maybe a few cures.

Prayers for Lil' Nina and her parents.  I have their address and phone if you have helpful assistance.  Samoa News will advise me directly so we can forward assistance direct or preferably through a non-profit.