As Carl’s world grew smaller and darker, Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels became a lifeline he never expected.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Carl remembers a time when life revolved around surfing and playing volleyball. A graduate of Roosevelt High School, he became a merchant marine, operating tugboats transporting cargo between O’ahu, the neighbor islands, Guam, and Samoa. It was a job he loved, but it came with challenges.
Overtime, the physical demands of his work took a toll on his health. When he started falling multiple times a day, he knew something was wrong. One day, alone at home, he suffered a stroke. It was two days before his daughter found him.
By then, the damage was done: Carl was paralyzed on his right side and permanently blind in his left eye. After a long career as a seaman, his health forced him into retirement at age 68.
Though he worked hard to regain his mobility and speech, Carl’s vision continued to decline. Now legally blind, he struggles with daily tasks that once felt effortless.
”I’m doing the laundry, and I can't see the buttons on the washing machine. Warm wash? Cold wash? If there's a neighbor there, I’m not afraid to ask them for help anymore.
Cooking has also become a challenge.
”Because my eyesight is going, I stopped cooking. One time I left the stove on when I turned off the wrong burner. I went out, and when I came back, the stove was red hot! Ever since then, I don't even try to cook, Carl shared.
After this close call, Carl’s case worker recommended Hawai’i Meals on Wheels. It was a turning point for him. Soon, hot meals were delivered to his apartment Monday through Friday.
”Oh man, I love the meals! Carl said with a smile. I like their curry. I get beef stew, teriyaki hamburger, and fish with some kind of delicious topping. And on the side, there’s sometimes cake and almond float. Before Hawai’i Meals on Wheels, I was eating mostly cold cuts. Also, tuna and mayonnaise – mix it around and put it on bread.
A few months after he started receiving meals, Carl mentioned to our team that he didn’t have a microwave. Within days, our team delivered both his meal and a microwave to his home. Overwhelmed by the kindness, Carl called us that morning in tears.
”I was taken aback! I'm all set up now. If I have an extra meal or leftovers, I leave it in the icebox and can reheat them later, he shared.
Carl is thankful for visits from his meal delivery drivers. One driver, Jon, has become a special part of his week.
”I hear Jon when he’s coming down the hallway. He calls out my name. And I know his voice! I'm so grateful, Carl shared.
As they got to know each other, Carl and Jon discovered they shared a love for music and even had mutual musician friends. Carl grew up with Hawaiian musicians, including the Makaha Sons, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, and Skippy Ioane. Talking story about their pasts and shared connections strengthened their bond, turning meal deliveries into moments of joy.
Thanks to generous supporters like you, homebound kūpuna like Carl can receive nutritious meals and vital social connections that brighten their days and keep isolation at bay. Mahalo for your support!
