Searching for Tammy's Heart

Who would have thought that pain in her left shoulder nine years ago would lead to the need for a heart transplant? This is the difficult journey of a beloved Mother and our dear friend, Tammy Arakaki aka “Giggles”.

In 2014, Tammy began having pain in her left shoulder blade area. Her doctor referred her to an orthopedic specialist. She underwent shoulder surgery which sadly, resulted in persisting pain that worsened to the point where it kept Tammy up at night and affected her daily living.

Tammy’s life came to a screeching halt in 2019, when she suffered an unexpected heart attack. On top of that, her kidneys were failing. She was told she needed a heart transplant and there was nothing available in Hawaii. She was medivacked to USC Keck Hospital in California with her mother by her side. Unfortunately, after further examination and consultation with the heart specialists, it was deemed that Tammy didn’t qualify for a transplant at that time. Tammy returned to Hawaii with more questions than answers.

The shoulder pains returned and in February 2020 she underwent open heart surgery (CABG - coronary artery bypass graft) to repair her damaged arteries. However, within two short months, three of her six arteries were clogged again.

In 2022, the cardiologist performed angioplasties and inserted stents. This provided only a temporary fix and the frequency of the procedure went from six to every three months. To make matters worse, her Mother who was her rock and was there for Tammy throughout this journey, passed away suddenly in July 2022.

Tammy was told in early 2023, that it was once again time to get on the waitlist for a heart transplant. In February she flew back to California for a consultation. The doctors informed her she would need to return in a few weeks for more tests. At that time, they recommend that she stay in the LA area while she awaits her “heart” as there is only a four-hour window once a donor’s heart is ready. Furthermore, after her surgery, she would need to remain in California for about six months until she has recovered enough to fly back to Hawaii.

This physical and emotional rollercoaster ride for Tammy has been one she has lived with over the past nine years. Through it all, she remains her same positive self, laughing and making others smile (hence her nickname “Giggles”). Tammy has such a kind and generous soul and is always there for her friends and family, never asking for anything in return.

Now it’s time for us to be there for her. We are asking for your help to assist Tammy with the many out-of-pocket medical expenses that insurance does not cover. She will need to take time off from work to fly to California for the procedure and remain there for her recovery. The combined costs will be astronomical: airfare, housing, travel to and from the hospital, meals, caregiver, and more.

Tammy has shown so much courage and resilience through this difficult journey. We humbly ask that you help in Tammy’s search for a new heart.

GIVE whatever you can. Any amount is greatly appreciated.

SHARE on social media (GoFundMe: “searchingfortammysheart”)

EMAIL this page - to your friends and family

With much Love and Aloha,

Krissy (daughter) & Friends of Giggles