Kekualā
Souza
Kekualā
Souza
Kekualā was born with a sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT), a rare tumor nearly the size of his body, attached to his tailbone. At just 2 days old, he underwent surgery to remove the tumor and spent the next 9 days in the NICU. In January 2023, follow-up scans revealed three new masses around his pelvis, later diagnosed as cancerous germ cell tumors.
Kekualā bravely faced chemotherapy, with his final round concluding just before his 1st birthday. Despite ongoing challenges and continued monitoring, he inspired us all with his strength, resilience, and unshakable spirit.
We first met Kekualā at the Pediatric Ambulatory Unit at Kapi‘olani Medical Center, where both he and Leigh received treatment. Inspired by his courage and love for superheroes — especially Spidey and His Amazing Friends — we were proud to honor his journey during our 2024 tournament.
Thank you to everyone who made the 2nd Annual Kaimanaola Benefit Golf Tournament such a meaningful and successful event. Your support allowed us to celebrate Kekualā and continue our mission of helping local families facing medical challenges.
2024 HIGHLIGHT VIDEO
by Luke Aguinaldo
2024
Event
Summary
In 2024, we celebrated Kekualāikalamakūakahawai‘i Souza as our Child of the Year. Born with a large sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT), Kekualā faced multiple surgeries and four rounds of chemotherapy before his first birthday. Despite ongoing challenges, his strength and spirit inspired us all. We met him at Kapiolani Medical Center, where he and Leigh received treatment, and we honored his brave journey—guided by his favorite superheroes, Spidey and His Amazing Friends—and the hope he brings to the Leigh Kaimanaola Foundation.
Event Statistics
- Teams: 48 teams of 3, making it a competitive and fun-filled day on the greens.
- Volunteers: 30 dedicated volunteers helped ensure the event ran smoothly.
- Sponsors: Over 20 sponsors generously supported our cause.
- Prize Donations: We received more than 50 prize donations, adding excitement to the event.
- Vendors: More than 14 vendors contributed to the vibrant atmosphere.
- Entertainment: The event featured music by DJ Compose, Flashee as the Emcee, and performances by Po’okela Wood, Christian from Ho’onu’a, and Natural Vibrations at our welcome and after-party.