A Resident Sharing Aloha Through Music Was “One In A Million”

It was just your typical craft sale fundraiser day at Hale Makua Kahului in June, with residents and employees flocking in and out of the Aloha Cafe, picking out their favorite ono treats to buy. But this time, something else was happening in the midst of all the commotion. In the corner of the room, beyond the hustle and bustle of busy shoppers, came the sweet sounds of the ukulele. It was one of our residents, Keoni Darisay, performing a soothing and beautiful melody.

Keoni, a former resident of Hale Makua is playing the ukulele for Hale Makua staff and residents. Credit: Hale Makua

Keoni, who had come to Hale Makua for care after being treated at the hospital for sepsis (a serious condition affecting the whole body to an infection), was singing his own version of Larry Graham’s “One in a Million You.” Except he wasn’t singing about a person. He was singing about Hale Makua! 

“Life showed compassion and sent to me, God sent to me, a stroke of love called Hale Makua,” he sang. 

After playing his music, Keoni shared about his wonderful experiences at Hale Makua. “Get so much aloha here,” he said. “I no need worry. All the nurses and assistants, everybody over here is so awesome. So friendly and so thorough. They know what you need.”  

That day, Keoni received the green light from the doctor to return home to Hana. His last order of business before he left was to share his musical gift with the staff and residents at the craft sale. There among the empanadas, laulau, gandule rice, cookies, banana bread, and other sweets, the most special treat we got that day came from Keoni’s heart and soulful vocals.  

Best of luck to Keoni on his continued recovery at home!