On September 30, 2024, Karl Kakiba, a retired Costco employee, was running errands and riding his scooter in Honolulu, Hawaii when the driver of a car made a sudden left turn in front of Karl causing him to crash into the car. Although Karl was wearing a helmet, he sustained life-threatening trauma to his head, face, and eyes. However, the most significant was the catastrophic spinal cord injury that resulted in Karl becoming a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the neck down. Subsequently, he has no voluntary movement below his neck rendering him dependent for all care.

While in the hospital undergoing multiple surgeries, Karl required a tracheotomy and feeding tube and unfortunately during this time he developed a chronic pressure sore. The severity of this pressure sore requires around-the-clock care and treatment.  

Kathy, his wife of 24 years, continued working full-time while Karl was hospitalized in order to maintain her income and their medical insurance. After 6 months of hospitalization, Karl was transferred home into Kathy’s full time care and she was permitted to work remotely.  The task of doing both simultaneously is an overwhelming and constant responsibility and Kathy desperately needs help from of a qualified caregiver. 

Their medical insurance does not cover any caregiving services and there are no other benefits they qualify for. Given the severity of Karl’s medical needs and the cost of in-home care for the rest of his life, it is financially prohibitive for Karl and Kathy. Financial assistance is badly needed for his caregiving services.

On behalf of the Kakibas, we are asking for any donations you are led to contribute towards their unexpected journey ahead. All donations will go directly to Karl's care and they are very humbled and grateful for gifts of any amount. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate a challenging future physically and emotionally. May the Lord richly bless you.