Cara's Story

From the moment of birth, Cara Mukai had to be a fighter. She was born with ventricular septal defect, a hole in the wall between the two lower chambers of her heart.

Cara underwent open-heart surgery at the young age of three to close the hole in her heart. For her parents, Steven and Jasmine, this was a very difficult time, but the decision was clear. Surgery was Cara's only chance to live a healthy and normal life.

The surgery was performed at Kapi'olani Medical Center, the only pediatric cardiac surgery facility in the Pacific.

"Kapi'olani provided our family with the best medical care and critical emotional support during the most chaotic time of our lives," Jasmine recalled.

Kapi'olani's Pediatric Cardiac Program allowed Cara to remain in Hawaii, near family and friends.

"You can't really appreciate the care and support that this type of program provides until you're faced with such a situation," Jasmine continued. "We are very fortunate, and are enjoying every moment and all the joy that Cara brings into our lives."

Through Kapi'olani's Kardiac Kids support group meetings, the Mukai's have been able to share their experience with other families. Each year, one in 100 infants is born with some form of congenital heart disease. For Cara, this experience has allowed her to form a special bond with other Kardiac Kids who she says, "are brave like me."

Today, Cara can run and play just like any child her age and is thankful to donors like you who made a difference in her life and in the lives of Hawaii's children.

Make a gift today.