A young man from Hawaii, Kahaone Kelau, is currently battling a rare and devastating complication of Valley Fever after pursuing diesel mechanic training in Arizona. His case underscores the dangers of the fungal infection and the critical importance of early diagnosis.

From Aloha Spirit to Unexpected Illness

Kahaone Kelau, known as Kaha, grew up on the Big Island of Hawaii, described by his mother, Laura Kelau, as a generous and compassionate individual. He moved to Arizona to attend school and work at Sanderson Ford, successfully completing his training before returning home last April.

A Sudden and Alarming Diagnosis

Kaha’s return to Hawaii was cut short by a persistent headache in July, which quickly escalated to a stroke in August. This stroke proved to be the first sign of a more serious illness. Initial diagnoses in Hawaii did not consider Valley Fever, a fungal infection common in the soil of the American Southwest.

Understanding Valley Fever

The fungus causing Valley Fever spreads through airborne spores disturbed by dust. While most exposures cause no symptoms, a small percentage experience flu-like symptoms, and an even smaller fraction develop severe neurological complications like Kaha’s. Dr. Marie Grill, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic, explained that less than five percent of those infected experience the spread of the fungus to the nervous system.

A Lifeline from a Fellow Survivor

Since August, Laura Kelau has remained by her son’s side. Desperate for answers, she discovered a video online featuring Chris Sams, a Valley Fever survivor receiving treatment at Mayo Clinic. Chris Sams contracted Valley Fever in 2017 and shared his story online, unknowingly providing crucial information to the Kelau family.

Laura credits Chris’s video with leading them to Dr. Grill and Mayo Clinic, potentially saving Kaha’s life. The emergency medical evacuation to Phoenix cost $96,000.

Fighting for Recovery

Despite the challenges, Kaha is demonstrating remarkable resilience. Unable to speak conventionally, he now communicates using an eye-tracking device, carefully constructing sentences. He expresses his determination, stating, ‘I’ve been working really hard. I’m getting better every day.’

The Mayo Clinic staff recently celebrated Kaha’s 21st birthday with a luau-themed party. While his future remains uncertain, and a return to Hawaii may not be possible due to limited specialized medical facilities, Laura remains hopeful.

Raising Awareness and Seeking Solutions

Chris Sams urges residents of Arizona to recognize their vulnerability, stating, ‘You’re not invincible. We think we are. But we’re not.’ Arizona currently has the highest number of new Valley Fever cases in the nation. Research is underway for a rapid diagnostic test, potentially available this summer. Individuals experiencing a persistent dry cough, fever, or joint pain after dust exposure are advised to seek testing.

The Kelau family has established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical and living expenses.