Local USA Volleyball Club Donating Concession Proceeds for Kamalu Kabalis

The Volleyball ‘ohana in Hawaii has always been very close, regardless of club or affiliation. So, in a time of need, it is no surprise that a volleyball group is coming together to help a family member in need.

During this week’s Junior Regional volleyball tournament at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, all proceeds made at the concession stand, which will be operated by Moku O Keawe USA Volleyball, will be donated to Kamalu Kabalis. Kabalis, the son of Carla and Sode Kabalis, is currently in a coma at Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, and does not have medical insurance.

Kamalu was involved in a motorcycle accident last Tuesday when he was driving on his way home from work. “He has a brain injury, and he hasn’t come out of a coma yet,” said Sodie.

The 27-year-old Kabalis was wearing his helmet, according to his parents. Because an investigation is underway into the incident, the family says that there is not much more that they can say about the incident.

Kamalu’s parents have been around the sports community, especially in volleyball, for many years. Carla formerly coached Hilo High School, with her husband as an assistant coach. She was also the interim head coach at the University of Hawaii at Hilo for one season. Sodie, while involved in volleyball, has also been active in physical therapy and rehab.

Sodie said on Monday that he does not know how much money they need to raise, although he said that “the cost of the medical bill is in the thousands.” He is not sure how much it costs per day for Kamalu to be kept at the Honolulu medical facility. The family has researched the different diagnosis from doctors and at times, Sodie explains, it can be frustrating and negative, but the family’s trust in God has kept the belief that good news may come. “I’m confident in my heart that he’s going to heal,” explained Sodie, fighting back emotion as he summoned the strength to talk from his heart.

Like a family usually does, when someone suffers, everyone comes together to offer their support and thoughts. Kamalu’s father noted that the “coconut wireless” around the Big Island has spread the word about his son’s condition, bringing many phone calls and get-well wishes. When describing all of the calls and support, Sodie summed it up by saying “that’s Hilo,” where everyone pulls together and supports one another.

All proceeds from concession sales will go to the family to help take care of Kamalu’s medical expenses. Additionally, people can drop off checks to the Civic between 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and on Saturday between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Checks can also be mailed out to USA Volleyball at P.O. Box 5918, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720.