Dorothy’s KPHC Memorable Moments
After 30 wonderful years working with Kalihi-Palama Health Center, I sadly retired and moved to Arizona. In my years with KPHC, I have encountered many memorable moments.
I was born and raised in Kalihi, Hawaii where I attended Kaiulani Elementary, Kalihi Waena Elementary, Kalakaua Intermediate, and graduated from Farrington High School. I got married, moved to California and after 20 years returned home a widow with five wonderful children.
My first attempt looking for work back home was at Kalihi-Palama Health Center, which at the time was located in Kaumakapili Church. Beth Giesting, who was then the Executive Director, hired me that first day as a Secretary, which was my first memorable moment.
I could go on and on, like for instance, a baby being born in front of the receptionist desk, visiting dignitaries, the Surgeon General, the move from Kaumakapili Church with each one of us carrying something from the old clinic to our new facility across the street. That was a sad event leaving the premises of Kaumakapili Church because they were our beginnings.
Another memorable moment was when Emmanuel Kintu, the Executive Director of KPHC met with Uncle Henry Aarona of Kaumakapili Church; he gave Emmanuel a history of the clinic, and gave his blessing to Emmanuel to carry on the Mission and Vision of Kalihi-Palama Health Center. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think of that moment.
Whenever I walked through the waiting room and saw the many faces of families of different background, I witnessed Kalihi-Palama Health Center upholding their mission. Everyone was welcomed.
Last but not least, on my last day at KPHC, I had a wonderful retirement and birthday luau with staff. In addition, the staff surprised me with my children and grandchildren who attended my retirement luau. So here I am in the middle of the desert in Arizona, my memories of Kalihi-Palama Health Center and the wonderful hardworking staff will forever be in my heart.
Vaya con dios,
Dorothy