Rain, Rain, Go Away
A first responder's perspective on what recovery really looks like—and why showing up for your community doesn't stop when the storm does. If you're able to give, even a little goes a long way.
In the wake of the recent Kona low that brought devastating flooding to Oahu's North Shore, I've been thinking a lot about what it really means to help a community—not just in the immediate aftermath, but through the long and difficult recovery that follows.
Consider donating through our fundraiser.
For most of my life, I've been a first responder. As early as 15, I was a volunteer firefighter and quickly moved to the professional path with the FDNY. Over the years, I've worked through nearly everything from everyday emergencies to major events—snowstorms, hurricanes, fires, and of course 9/11. That kind of work stays with you. It teaches you how fragile things can be, and how important it is to act quickly when people are in need. But it also makes clear that the hardest part often comes after the initial crisis.
That understanding is personal for me.
My parents lost their home in Breezy Point, NY during Hurricane Sandy. I remember how drawn-out and exhausting the recovery was for them—months of cleanup, back-and-forth with insurance companies, and constant delays that made it feel like progress was always just out of reach. It wasn't just about rebuilding a home; it was about trying to get life back to something that felt normal again. While my parents' house lay in ruins, my father volunteered for the next couple of years with Habitat for Humanity to rebuild our neighbors' homes. That's service to your community.
That experience, and many others, has shaped how I see situations like this.
When I look at what's happening on the North Shore, or think about the fires on Maui and other disasters, I see families going through that same uncertainty and frustration. I know how important it is for help to reach people quickly, and how much even a small amount of support can matter in those early days—and in the months that follow.
This fundraiser is one way I can contribute, and one way you can help.
Hawaii is a place I care deeply about. The people here embody the aloha spirit—resilient, generous, and deeply connected to one another. Right now, many families and small businesses are struggling just to get by, hoping to rebuild and find some sense of normal again.
I understand that money is tight for a lot of people. But if you're able to give even a small amount, it will go a long way. Every bit helps ease the burden and supports those who are working to rebuild their lives. I hope to help 9 families and 1 business—more if possible.
At the end of the day, this is about community. It's about doing what we can for each other, especially when it matters most.
