OUR TEAM
Meet just a few of the 520 plus professionals who make up the 'ohana (family) at Hale Makua Health Services. All of our employees are committed to providing our residents and clients with the best possible care in a compassionate, loving environment.
Rene Akina, LPN, Head LPN, Adult Day Health by Hale Makua
"I have been with Hale Makua for over 30 years. My current position is the best, as I get a chance to use and incorporate everything I've learned. I get to work a little with activities, maintenance exercise, beauty shop, masseuse, or just plain talk story. Oh, and I even get to do a little nursing!"
Margie Albete, Director of Admissions/Financial Counselor
"Since graduating from college, Hale Makua is only the second job I've applied for'and I've been here ever since! This is such a warm and special place to work. I love my job at Hale Makua."
Dionie Cabias, LPN, Staffing Supervisor
"Hale Makua was my first and only employer! I began in 1980 as a Staff LPN, worked my way up, and I am currently in charge of scheduling 200 nursing staff."
Fely Cadavis, Housekeeper & Laundry Worker
"When I was working in the hotel industry, I didn't get to know my customers. I like working here because I can get to know the residents."
Jennifer Gardanier, Health Information Management Supervisor
"I began my employment at Hale Makua when I was 16 years old as a kitchen helper/transporter. I then left Hale Makua to continue my education and start a family. In 1999 I returned as a Ward Clerk, and in the past 7 years I have actively worked my way up the Hale Makua ladder. I hope to still be climbing in years to come."
Saundra Gaskey, RD, Director of Nutrition Services, Wailuku
"Hale Makua is a very special place. It exemplifies the true spirit of Aloha. Everyday I feel like I'm on a cruise ship, with all the activities and the delicious foods. But more impressive is the caring compassion you see in all of our employees here. Hale Makua is my family in the true spirit; I feel very fortunate to be here."
Edie Kapoi, Environmental Services Supervisor
"I like the atmosphere at Hale Makua. It's like a family; everyone works together, all the departments with the residents. We're all one, practicing compassionate caring."
Teresa Lopes, Kahului Activities Director
"I started working at Hale Makua in 1976. Hale Makua is my life; I have met thousands of residents and families in my many years here. I look forward to each day and coming to work and helping people. My coworkers are very caring and the most compassionate people I know."
Carlayna Nakamura, RN, MS, MPH, Development Director
"What I enjoy most about my job is the staff ' they are so wonderful ' and the residents ' they inspire me every day! The generosity of our donors makes all things possible ' they help our dreams come true as we care for our residents."
Luisa Ogawa, RN, East Unit Supervisor
"Hale Makua made me grow in all aspects of nursing."
Mona Ordono, Nursing Secretary
"I started as a secretary with Hale Makua's Adult Foster Family Program where I enjoyed working with caregivers, clients, & family members. Now I'm a Nursing Secretary. All the staff here work hard but still find time to have fun with our residents."
Lucy Porte, RNC, Resident Assessment Coordinator
"I have worked at Hale Makua since 1979. I am currently a Certified Gerontological Nurse and a master trainer for Hale Makua's Compassionate Caring Program. My journey here has been rewarding and satisfying for me. I'm inspired to learn and grow professionally as well as personally."
Angie Saiki, LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse
"I give my full service to my residents because of the love I have for them. I give them my heart."
Mabel Sol, CNA, Senior CNA
"I consider this my second home and my second family. I appreciate all of the residents' families. They're very appreciative of the staff. And the environment here is so nice. We have all the plants and trees, and views of the mountains."
Donna Tabion, BA, Social Services Assistant
"I've worked in the geriatrics field for many years. It's challenging and rewarding, and I don't want to do anything else. I love coming to work everyday!"
Veronica Tanner, Senior Housekeeper
"Hale Makua has an excellent Day Health Program for people like me, who work and take care of loved ones. I can work, knowing that my mom is being well taken care of and is in a safe and healthy environment. Hale Makua's motto, 'Excellence in Healthcare in Our Home and Yours,' is reflected in the Day Health Program."
Warren Wong, MD, Medical Director
"I am the Medical Director at Hale Makua, and it's one of my favorite jobs. I'm also Chief of Geriatric Medicine at Kaiser Permanente and Clinical Professor of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Hawaii."
