Hawaiian love story perseveres through wildfires

Aloha, my name is Stefania, and I’m raising funds for my dear friends, Tyrene and Jojo Utrillo, and their 3-year-old son, Linkin. I first met Tyrene a decade ago, and I was immediately drawn to her humility and peaceful demeanor. She has been a wonderful friend to me ever since.

Tyrene and JoJo’s love story is a beautiful one. They met over 20 years ago on the stunning Na Pali Coast while JoJo was working on a boat. He swept her off her feet and brought her back to Lahaina with him. Moving to a different island in Hawaii is like moving to another state, so it was a big change for Tyrene. They lived with JoJo’s parents for 9 years while saving up for a place of their own. Eventually, they bought a townhouse across from Foodland Farms in Lahaina.

Unfortunately, their townhouse burned down in the fires. Now, they are back at their family house in Lahainaluna, having to overlook the disaster zone. Tyrene and Linkin escaped the fires with a neighbor, and JoJo watched his hometown burn from the top of the road.

I’m hoping to raise enough money to help them through this unimaginably difficult time. Every dollar will go directly to their bank account for basic needs, healthcare, rebuilding, and whatever else is needed as time goes on. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated, Mahalo.