My name is Eddie Thamdy, and for the past 30 years, I have been a farmer in Hawai'i, supporting my wife and family. Recently, our lives were turned upside down by the Kona Low Storm. The rain didn’t stop for three or four days, and at first, I was just worried the roof might leak. But soon, the water started rising from the ground, coming from all directions. I was in my farmhouse as the floodwaters climbed up to my chest—I’m 5'2''—and swept over our two-acre property.

The storm destroyed all of our crops: bittermelon, flowers for lei making, kika flowers, and about 15% of our bananas. We lost our generator, and now our tractor won’t start. I am also a lei maker, and losing the flowers has been especially hard. With so much theft happening in the area, I’m afraid to leave the property for fear that someone might take apart my tractor or other heavy machinery. Thankfully, my car is okay, but there’s a long road ahead to recover from this disaster.

My friend and neighbor, Khamphou Manivong will be accepting the money on my behalf. These funds will be used for immediate and urgent needs so we can get back on our feet. It’s not easy for me to ask for help, and I don’t want to come off as burdensome or needy. I am so appreciative at even just the thought that people would want to give to me. Mahalo for donating to me and for any support you can give. I just want the rain to stop and to be able to rebuild. I am truly appreciative of the help I’ve already received, and every bit of support will make a difference for my family.