Canoe race helps paddler on Maui
By Christie Wilson
Advertiser Neighbor Island Editor
KAHULUI, Maui — Members of Maui's canoe paddling community will put aside their summer rivalries to enjoy a day of just-for-fun racing to raise money for fellow paddler Mark "Marco" Kawaiaea's battle with lung cancer.
Kawaiaea, 42, was diagnosed June 2, less than a month after competing in the Starbucks Kaiwi Channel Relay. His mixed two-person canoe team finished second in its division in the Moloka'i-O'ahu race.
Mark "Marco" Kawaiaea worked out regularly and has never smoked.
His former wife, Margie Kawaiaea, one of Hawai'i's best female paddlers, said Marco was in top shape and had no symptoms other than a persistent cough. A CT scan and biopsy confirmed the tumor.
The diagnosis was totally unexpected, since Marco, a driver for Hawaiian Cement, worked out regularly and has never smoked.
He began chemotherapy June 9 and is seeking additional treatment in Honolulu. Chemotherapy has sapped Marco's strength, and the disease is taking a toll on the couple's 12-year-old daughter, Cory, Margie Kawaiaea said. "She's trying to be strong and take care of her dad," Margie said.
Although Marco has health insurance and received assistance from the American Cancer Society, it is not certain when he will be able to return to work or whether all his medical bills will be covered. Day-to-day expenses are putting a strain on the family.
Friends and relatives asked what they could do to help, said Margie Kawaiaea. An ocean race seemed a perfect way to raise money, bring friends together and participate in something he loves. "It's to keep him positive and to show that he has support," she said.
The July 27 race from Maliko Gulch to Kahului Harbor will be followed by entertainment, food, and a silent auction from noon to 5 p.m. There also be a drawing for a one-person Hurricane canoe.
The event takes place on the weekend between the last Maui County Hawaiian Canoe Association regatta and the Aug. 2 state championships at Ke'ehi Lagoon. All three Kawaiaeas are members of defending state champion Hawaiian Canoe Club.
The 9-mile Maliko-Kahului race is open to kayaks and one-, two- and six-person canoes. Entry fee is $20 per person. The afternoon activities at the Hawaiian Canoe Club hale are free, though donations will be accepted.
For more information, or to donate money or auction items, call Margie Kawaiaea at (808) 244-8014, Sharon or Ricky Balidoy at (808) 879-5644 or Theresa Felgate at (808) 244-1293.
