Inez, 85, was born and raised in Kahuku — a proud, lifelong Raider. Her grandparents came from the Philippines and made their living on the sugar plantations. Inez followed in their hardworking footsteps, dedicating 50 years of her life to nursing. She raised five children and eventually retired, looking forward to quiet days with her husband, Marcy, now 90, a retired foreman painter. The two recently celebrated 62 years of marriage.
When Marcy began showing signs of memory loss, life suddenly took a turn. Inez, ever the caregiver, stepped back into her role as a nurse. Their youngest son, Marc, shares:
”“Dad’s lived a full life, and he knows what he used to do and what he can’t do now. Mom and I — all of us — are coping with how much his personality has changed.”
Then, Marcy had a fall. The strain on Inez grew, and soon she began showing signs of memory loss herself. While working full-time as a grounds supervisor for the Department of Parks and Recreation, Marc dedicates his mornings, evenings, and weekends to caregiving.
”“Mom used to care for Dad. Now, they both have dementia. So, I’m stepping in – pricking Dad’s finger for his diabetes, managing their medications, taking them to appointments,” shares Marc.
Last summer, Marc, reached out to Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels as caregiving tasks became more overwhelming. For their family, home-delivered meals made a world of difference.
”“Dad loves the meals! Mom does too, especially the desserts. Sometimes she even sneaks his. And while we love our Filipino food — you know, heart attack food — having healthy meals for Mom and Dad that actually taste good really means a lot to us,” shares Marc.
Recently, Marcy began having trouble swallowing. So, we adjusted his meals. He now receives his diabetic-friendly meals minced so he can eat safely.
”“Right now, Mom can still stay at home with Dad while I’m at work. But I’m already planning for what’s next — they’re both accident-prone. Having meals in place gives us the space to prepare,” shares Marc.
Your generous support helps kūpuna like Inez and Marcy and family caregivers like Marc. With your gift, you can help provide healthy, medically tailored meals to kūpuna across O‘ahu, helping them remain safe and independent at home for as long as possible.
Will you consider making a gift today to lift the burden for families and to honor kūpuna and caregivers who have given so much? Mahalo for your compassion and generosity!
