Valentine's Day in Hawai'i is not just about love and romance; it's also about love and respect, love and admiration, love and gratitude, love and sympathy, love and empathy.

That's what we gleaned from the nearly 100 nominations that flooded in for our 2009 gentle Valentine's Makeovers — not just from boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives and lovers, but from daughters, sons, mothers, friends, cousins and those receiving loving aid from caregivers. Choosing just three worthy people was a challenge. There were many heartwarming stories shared of courage and selflessness, sacrifice and generosity.

Today you meet the three women who were selected for Valentine's makeovers, and see them in their "before" state. Go to www.HonoluluAdvertiser.com/IslandLife for video of the women! On Feb. 22, you will see the results of all their pampering.