From now through December 31, 2025, consider giving a gift to HUGS to support Hawaii's Seriously Ill Children and Their Families, like the Mahuka-Kim Family.

In 2020, four-year-old Mina was rushed to the hospital, where doctors found a 4cm tumor in her brain and diagnosed her with medulloblastoma. Her treatment required intensive care in Texas, so the family uprooted their lives to stay together during her surgeries and chemotherapy.

Mina endured headaches, nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and more — yet her parents describe her as “a true warrior” who faced everything with courage and resilience.

The journey also strengthened the family’s bond.
“We have a new appreciation for one another,” her mom shared. “HUGS helped us fly home and continues to give our kids joy and connection. When we say there’s a HUGS event, they light up — that happiness means the world to us.”

Mina has now completed treatment and will continue to be monitored over the next five years.

“Cancer is hard — but hope, faith, love, and support make all the difference. At the end of the day, we have Mina, and we couldn’t be more blessed.”

Since 1982, HUGS has supported families across Hawaiʻi who have a child (birth to age 21) diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Our mission is to strengthen families and improve their quality of life as they face the emotional, financial, and social challenges of caring for a seriously ill child.

HUGS offers monthly peer-support programs for every member of the family — including Moms’ Nights, Dads’ Nights, Respite/Big Buddy outings, and Family Events. These gatherings provide a safe, welcoming space where families can connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through. Each family member is affected differently, so our programs are designed to support moms, dads, siblings, and the HUGS child individually — helping them build friendships, find encouragement, and know they are not alone.

All programs are provided at no cost to HUGS families. Your generosity ensures they can continue to find joy, relief, and connection during some of their hardest days.

If you would like to make a gift to HUGS, please click the “Donate” button or mail a check payable to HUGS to:

HUGS – 3636 Kilauea Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816

Mahalo for caring about Hawaiʻi’s seriously ill children and their families.

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Give "Hugs" This Year-End 2025

By HUGS

Give "Hugs" This Year-End 2025

Help us raise $50,000 to ensure our HUGS families are not alone

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