KAPAA — Ashley Buyat, a graduate of Waimea High School, lives with diabetes. So does her mother, Lani Buyat. “I have Type I diabetes, and my mom has Type II diabetes,” the Waimea High School graduate said. “I am planning
KAPAA — Ashley Buyat, a graduate of Waimea High School, lives with diabetes. So does her mother, Lani Buyat.
“I have Type I diabetes, and my mom has Type II diabetes,” the Waimea High School graduate said. “I am planning on becoming a nurse to learn more about diabetes and help others who live with this disease.”
Buyat was one of three recipients of $500 scholarships presented by the Mahelona Hospital Auxiliary on Tuesday during a luncheon celebrating the recipients’ achievements and plans on pursuing fields of study in the medical profession. Other recipients include Chelsea Ferrer, graduating from Kapaa High School, and Charles Samuel, a graduate of Kauai High School.
“I’ll be heading to the University of Hawaii-Hilo,” Buyat said. “I’ve always wanted to attend that school after listening to their presentation when I was in the 10th grade. Diabetes, it seems, will be around for a long time, and if I can help people who cope with the disease, that is my goal.”
Ferrer, who received her diploma from Kapaa High School last Friday, said she already has her classes set and has been accepted into the nursing program at the Kauai Community College.
“For now, my goal is to become a registered nurse,” said Ferrer, daughter of Felix and Evelyn Ferrer.
Ferrer said she was inspired to pursue a career in nursing because her family has a background in nursing.
Samuel, who recently broke the Kauai Interscholastic Federation boys 800 meter run record at the championship meet, said he wants to continue to run while he pursues a career as a pediatric surgeon at the Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.
“I like kids,” Samuel said. “Ever since I took a class on the human body, I became curious about the body and how it functions. With those interests, I told myself, ‘Just go for it.’ Just like the KIF record.”
Josie Pablo, a Mahelona Hospital Auxiliary member, said she is proud the auxiliary supports students from throughout the island.
The Mahelona Hospital Auxiliary derives its proceeds from operating the Mahelona Hospital Thrift Shop as well as other fundraising functions.
