Mel’s Fight Against Cancer

Hello all, meet my Dad, Melvin David Kahanu. Known by many as Mel, he is a 48 year old amazing father of 7, uncle, brother, son and friend.

 In 2021, my dad visited his doctor concerned about blood in his stool. That day he was sent home and told that he had nothing to worry about. Unfortunately the doctor was wrong. In August of 2021, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer (Adenocarcinoma, rectum). His CT results revealed the cancer had also spread to his liver and lungs. He was told he had 6-9 months to live if left untreated and 3 years at best with chemotherapy. A little over a year has passed and my dad is still pushing and fighting for his life. As of March 17th 2022, his results have shown the cancer has spread tremendously in his lungs. Now as of September 20 2022 it has shown that his cancer numbers have almost tripled. Although he is making some progress, he still has a ways to go. 

 For the last 13 years my dad has lived in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. He lives with his Fiancé, Renee, and my three younger siblings: Kailey, Ku’ulei and Mila. As many of you may know, the price of living in Hawaii is high. This costs of treatment only adds to my dad’s costs of living, so despite being in chemotherapy, he must continue to get up and go to work. He currently works two jobs, both which require physical ability. During treatment weeks, he literally goes to work with his chemo-ball attached to his body. On top of that, the side effects of cancer and chemotherapy often take a huge toll on his body sometimes resulting in him physically not being able to make it to work. When he doesn’t work, that causes a big impact on his financial situation and his ability to take care of himself and our family. 

 Cancer and chemotherapy have not only affected my dad physically and financially, it also affects every part of his life. My dad and Renee had plans to get married in fall of 2022, but now their plans have been put on hold. Additionally, a big part of my childhood memories as an athlete was contributed to the fact that my dad was my first softball coach. My youngest sister Mila started playing softball, but will never get to experience the amazing coach my dad was because of his declining health. She will never have the same core memory that I am so grateful for.

 This has been extremely tough for everyone that loves and cares for my dad. If you know Mel, you know he’s Mr. Aloha everywhere he goes. He shares his story with anyone who has an open ear. His transparency and vulnerability has created life long friendships for him. Everyone that knows him knows he has a huge heart and would do as much as he can to help a friend or family member in need. With that being said, it is now our time to help him. He is too humble to ask for help, but as his eldest daughter, I ask for you to help my dad in anyway to lessen his burden. I know times are tough for many, but if you can donate anything, it would be greatly appreciated. All proceeds will go to medical cost, as well as living to compensate for when he is too sick to go to work. If you are unable to donate financially, no worries, I only ask that you share his story and keep him in your prayers while he begins his 3rd round of chemotherapy this week (September 21st 2022).

 Thank you all for your time and consideration and for keeping my dad in your thoughts and prayer.