CLEVELAND — Christine Bertlemann, who works in sales at WKYC Studios, thinks of her native Hawaii as a paradise, the place where she raised her four children living on the Big Island.
It's her heart, and her home. But after only being gone from there for a year, it's devastating to see parts of Maui in ruins after the recent wildfires.
"There's no words to ... to try to explain the devastation and the travesty that happened," Christine told us.
Businesses and homes have been destroyed. The entire town of Lahaina, destroyed. That's particularly hurtful because she's made a lifetime of memories there. Yet, among the devastation lies the strong spirit of Hawaii, where community members are staying strong, hopeful, and filled with pride.
"It's just a great feeling to know we come from such a beautiful place ... that in spite of heartache, that everyone comes together and there's no hesitation (to help)," Christine said. "Small businesses, large businesses, non-profits, I mean, the list goes on. Individuals, churches, have all opened their hearts to help these families who are in desperate need."
And, though she's not physically there, her heart is. And, she's giving all of it to her beloved Hawaii.
"They're in our hearts ... in our prayers," Christine said. "And, we send them oceans of love and aloha," she said through tears.
If you'd like to help, Christine recommends reaching out to The Hawaii Community Foundation – Maui Strong Fund, donorservices@hcf-hawaii.org or 808-566-5560. For more information, click HERE.
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