Support Ha’ea Lapera's Road to Recovery

Aloha Everyone,

My name is Desiree Makepa I am writing this on behalf of my grandson, Ha’ea Lapera, who is five years old. On March 28, 2025 he was in a car crash in which the truck rolled several times and ended up in a lava field. He was unresponsive at the scene and was rushed to Hilo Medical Center and was then transported to Kapiolani Medical Center ICU for further testing and examination.

The doctors have informed Ha’eas parents, Chesiree Sims and Hala’i Lapera, that he has a C2 Shattered Vertebrae. Ha’ea will have to use a Halo for 3 months to secure his neck from any type of movement so that it can heal properly. In an event it doesn’t heal properly, he will then have to undergo surgery. As of right now he has no movement in his left arm and will have to do physical therapy. Ha’ea is so small that Kapiolani has no Halo that will fit his size, therefore they will either have to custom make one for him or find one in the mainland. If so, that will take some time to arrive.

Ha’ea is so full of life and lovable! Always so happy and loves the outdoors, especially going to the beach. He has a sister back on the big island who loves and misses him so much. Ha’ea is a strong little boy and has overcome a lot since he was born. Ha’ea is loved by so many people and has a very amazing support system. He is a fighter!!!

This will be a long process for all of them. They will be at Kapiolani for a few months and will continue to travel back and forth for testing and examinations.

This fundraiser would be for medical bills, housing, transportation, flights, food and necessities to carry them through till he’s able to come home.

Any type of help would be greatly appreciated for this little warrior!

Blessings,

Desiree