ABOUT US

OUR STORY

Co-founders John and Patricia Cravalho started Ililani Foundation after their family faced the challenges of cancer.

In 2016, John’s mom passed away from bile-duct cancer leaving behind John and his brothers - one of whom at the time was only 15 years old.  In February 2021, Patricia’s mom, who was also an ovarian cancer survivor, passed away from covid19. Having both their mothers affected by cancer was devastating for their families.

Then in May 2021, Patricia was diagnosed with breast cancer, and their ‘ohana had to navigate this unexpected journey. 

As she went through surgery and active cancer treatment, they realized the lack of resources available in the islands for cancer patients with young families, especially for the socio-economically challenged, local community - mostly made up of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders.

Patricia is now in remission and this experience has ignited a deep desire in their ‘ohana to support other families in Hawai‘i facing the same heart-wrenching battle, ensuring that no one has to navigate this storm alone.

MEET THE CRAVALHO ‘OHANA

Patricia is a Filipino Immigrant who has lived in Manila, California, and Hawai‘i. She currently runs a small business and enjoys spending time with family, friends, and dogs; being outdoors (beach/hike); reading books; and trying new places to eat.

John was born and raised in Hawai‘i and he is Indigenous Native Hawaiian, Portuguese, and Chinese. He has been Educator for over 20 years. He loves music, especially jazz, and knows how to play every instrument. He is also a big Niners fan.

Their ‘ohana loves to do karate, play board games, host people in their home, and go on adventures & travels.

They are involved in their community by being part of a Hula Halau; serving in their church; and they aloha ʻāina (love the land) by partnering with another non-profit to mālama (care) for a Native Hawaiian Heritage Site in their neighborhood.