My name is Jay Chee, and I am the oldest of our siblings. I am creating this GoFundMe to help raise funds for my little sister, Cijon Chee, who has been courageously battling a rare and life-threatening heart condition since 2014.

At just 19 years old, Cijon was diagnosed with streptococcal endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart valves caused by streptococcus bacteria. Before receiving a diagnosis, she endured over a month of repeated ER visits due to constant fevers, shortness of breath, and severe sore throat. Because this condition is so rare—affecting only about 3 to 10 people out of every 100,000—it took time for doctors to determine the cause. Once diagnosed, she immediately underwent her first open-heart surgery in 2014.

In 2020, she faced another major setback when she experienced heart failure. She had to undergo bypass surgery and have a stent placed to temporarily repair complications with her prosthetic valves from her first surgery.

Now, in January 2026, Cijon began experiencing symptoms of heart failure again and immediately went to Maui Lani Hospital. After multiple tests, doctors confirmed that she needs another open-heart surgery. Due to the high risks involved with this being her second open-heart procedure, hospitals in Honolulu have declined to perform the surgery, as they are not fully equipped to handle the potential complications. As a result, she will need to be transferred to a specialized facility on the mainland for this critical surgery.

Cijon is a devoted single mother to three beautiful children—two girls and one boy, ages 13, 6, and 5. She is also a survivor of the Lahaina wildfire and continues to work full-time while doing everything she can to provide for her keiki. With this upcoming surgery, she will need to take time off work to focus on her recovery and ongoing treatment.

The funds raised through this GoFundMe will help cover:

    •    Travel and transportation to and from the mainland

    •    Medical-related expenses

    •    Living expenses and bills while she is unable to work

    •    Care and support for her three children during her recovery

Our family deeply appreciates any support you can give. If you are unable to donate, we kindly ask that you keep Cijon and her small ʻohana in your prayers.

Mahalo nui loa to everyone for your love, generosity, and support during this difficult time.