Aid for ʻŌlena's Medical Fight

Dear friends, family, and kindhearted strangers,

I'm reaching out to share the story of my sweet 4-year-old niece, ‘Ōlena, who is on the road to recovery after a serious injury.

She recently suffered a traumatic injury that left her with a fractured skull and a brain bleed. We are doing everything we can to support her, but we need your help.

Just days ago, ‘Ōlena experienced a devastating event that changed everything in an instant. She was airlifted to the ICU at the Children's Hospital on Oahu, where doctors have been treating her around the clock. She remains under constant medical care, and while she is fighting bravely, the road ahead is long and uncertain.

She has already undergone emergency treatment, and while we are hopeful, her recovery will take months. The unexpected time off of work and medical costs are increasing. Unfortunately, some her medical expenses won't be fully covered by insurance, and the financial burden on her parents is overwhelming.

They were flown to Oahu for her treatment, but travel, lodging, and other expenses are adding up fast.

Kathryn and Josh are incredibly private people who never ask for anything—but with their permission, I am asking for your help on their behalf. They are devoted parents who have dedicated their lives to service in law enforcement and healthcare, and now they need the support of their community.

This past year has already been unimaginably difficult for them. Kathryn recently fought and triumphed over breast cancer, a battle that took a tremendous toll physically, emotionally, and financially. Just as she was beginning to heal, this devastating injury to her daughter struck. Adding to the heartbreak, Josh recently suffered the sudden loss of his own father. Grieving this unexpected tragedy while now facing his daughter’s medical crisis has been overwhelming. This family has endured more hardship than any family should—and now, they are being tested once again.

If you are able to donate, every contribution—big or small—will go directly toward:

* Emergency medical care, including any necessary surgeries.

* Hospital stays, treatments, and ongoing therapy.

* Rehabilitation over the coming months.

* Travel and living expenses for her family while they remain by her side.

* Support for Kathryn and Josh as they take time away from work to care for their daughter.

If you aren't able to donate, we completely understand. Even sending words of encouragement, love, and prayers means the world to us. Your support in any form helps lift this family up during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

I am here with them for the next while to help however I can, and I will continue to share updates on ‘Ōlena’s status and progress. Your love and support truly make a difference, and we are so grateful for every message, share, and donation.

As an aunt, I feel so helpless watching my niece go through this. She is the brightest light, the sweetest soul, and she deserves every chance to recover and return to the joyful, playful little girl we all love so much.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, love, and generosity.

With love and gratitude,


Heidi Kaufmann (‘Ōlena’s auntie and Kathryn’s sister)

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the paramedics, flight medics, nurses and pilots, emergency doctors, specialists, neurology departments, ICU nurses and doctors, as well as the trauma team who continue to care for ‘Ōlena 24/7. Your dedication, expertise, and constant care have made an immeasurable difference, and we are incredibly thankful for everything you continue to do.

We are also incredibly grateful to our family and friends who have stepped in to help with rides, hotel bookings, accommodations, support, and prayers. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us, and we couldn’t do this without you.