The Spirit of Aloha
This summer I was wearing a dress that I purchased on my last trip to Hawaii. It reminded me not only of my vacation, but in particular of the day I wore it to visit Islands Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, in February of 2020. Gary Wong, director of respiratory care, whom I had previously met, had extended an invitation to tour the facility and meet the staff. Given that they were preparing to open Islands, which would include a ventilator unit fully equipped with VOCSN, I was asked to share my experiences using the device. Having significant history with the team that developed and manufactures VOCSN, I was very excited for the opportunity to go out into the field and meet people who will be caring for VOCSN users.
I was welcomed with the true spirit of aloha.
Most people know "aloha," as a salutation for both a greeting and a farewell in Hawaii; however, in actuality, it is also an embodiment of the philosophy and approach to relationships by which many Hawaiians live. It is intended to extend respect, warmth, and caring. Upon entering the facility, I could immediately see that it was clean, sleek, and modern, while also providing a sense of hospitality for patients and visitors alike. I was welcomed with the true spirit of aloha—not only had I been personally escorted inside by several staff members, I was also bestowed a beautiful handmade lei. The reception I received at the door, and as I made my way throughout the facility, made it very apparent that all the patients who will be staying at Islands will be cared for with the same sense of warmth I experienced.
Looking back, I recall how enthusiastic the staff was about their work and for the opportunity to speak with a patient actually breathing on the device they had recently been trained to use. The staff had many questions, primarily focused on patient care and quality of life, and it was a privilege to be able to provide them with the opportunity to see somebody using VOCSN. While VOCSN has greatly contributed to my quality of life, it was exciting to see how it helped to contribute to the desired environment they were seeking to create at Islands. Gary told me that the facility had been renovated in order to make the best use of its small space; therefore, he was very thankful for VOCSN's efficient use of space, as it condenses five pieces of equipment into a single unit.
The thought that went into preparing Islands demonstrates that the entire staff is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters the spirit of aloha. I believe that the essence of this spirit is found wherever compassionate people are striving to make the world a better place in whatever capacity they are able. It truly has been an honor and a privilege, not only being able to use a game changer device like VOCSN, but to be able to know the brilliant minds that dedicated themselves to creating it, as well as the growing number of incredible people who care for those using VOCSN.
In thinking back on my visit to Hawaii, and in particular my visit to Islands Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, there is always the underlying spirit of aloha that colors all of my memories. I cannot think of a better goal to strive for in life than to engage people with an essence of respect, warmth, and caring. It is very easy to lose focus during the hustle and bustle of one's day-to-day life, and I am thankful for the reminder of my time in a place that is not only more relaxed and peaceful, but where respect and kindness are a way of life. I hope that I will always retain a piece of Hawaii, by adopting its spirit of aloha as a part of my credo.
Loa, you always bring us back to focus on what is important ♥️