Family Stories of Impact

Teresa ‘Ānelali‘i Lehualani Apo, mother of a child with complex medical needs:
“My son has Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus, and Lupus. Without HWMN, we would have continued to fall through the gaps of care. This organization has uplifted us physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Their pediatric physical therapy services improved my son’s mobility and gave us the guidance, compassion, and hope we needed as a family.”

Infant after Heart Surgery:

Eunice shares her journey with her baby girl who underwent open-heart surgery at just five months old. After the procedure, her daughter faced significant developmental delays — unable to roll over or reach key motor milestones. Recently, their doctor recommended starting physical therapy after noticing further delays in her progress.

Through this interview, we hear both the challenges and the hope that come with taking the first steps toward therapy. The parent shares how routines and early exercise adjustments after surgery made a difference, while the speaker reminds us that with the right support and care, every child can make meaningful progress.

​

​Finding Strength Through Story: Amber ʻAlohihokulani Kekahuna’s Journey with Lupus

At just 22, Amber ʻAlohihokulani Kekahuna, Miss Orchid Isle USA 2025, shares a deeply personal story that reflects courage, resilience, and advocacy. Living with lupus—a condition she’s likely had her whole life—Amber opens up about the daily challenges of managing her health while balancing school, work, and her pageant responsibilities.

Despite facing fatigue, flare-ups, and limited understanding from others, Amber remains determined to speak up for children and families who cannot advocate for themselves. Through her ongoing care, community support, and faith, she has learned that healing goes beyond medicine—it’s about connection, awareness, and hope.

​

A Mother’s “Eye-Opening” Journey: Antonio’s First Steps

In this touching interview, the mother of 15-month-old Antonio shares her journey of discovering just how powerful early therapy can be. When Antonio wasn’t walking yet—unlike her older children—she turned to occupational therapy (OT). The focus was on strengthening his core and helping him learn the right way to stand and move, from ankle stability to using both legs equally.

At around 15 months, Antonio took his very first steps. But even at age three, his mom noticed something still wasn’t quite right—favoring one side, difficulty catching his head, and other subtle signs that she’d been sensing for years. A recent physical therapy evaluation brought everything into focus, revealing areas of weakness and growth that could finally be addressed.

She calls the experience “eye-opening” and is excited to begin physical therapy—the next step in helping Antonio move freely, confidently, and strongly.

​

Advocating for Awareness: One Family’s Journey with Seizure Medication

In this heartfelt interview, Kayla, a mother shares her son Cash’s journey navigating seizure medications and the emotional changes that came with them. Through her experience, she discovered the power of asking questions, staying informed, and working closely with her care team to find what truly supports her child’s well-being.

Her story highlights how advocacy and collaboration between families and providers can make a lasting difference in the lives of keiki — ensuring care that is not only effective but compassionate and individualized.