Aloha,
The Leigh Kaimanaola Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to hosting an annual benefit golf tournament. This event provides crucial support to a child in need while raising awareness about their medical condition.
The tournament also helps to share Leigh Kaimanaola Kema's story with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1).
LEIGH KAIMANAOLA FOUNDATION
P.O. BOX 8872 Honolulu, HI 96830
ATTN: RICH ELLIOTT
EIN: 93-1445750 501(c)(3)
Hana Hou!
The 3rd annual Leigh Kaimanaola Benefit Golf Tournament is officially set for Friday, August 15, 2025.
Important Notes: It's a state holiday - perfect for a day on the course! The Made in Hawaii Festival is happening the same weekend so plan ahead.
Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more details. We can't wait to see you there!
Meet Kekuala.
Kekualāikalamakūakahawai’i Souza was our 2024 child of the Year for the 2nd Annual Kaimanaola Benefit Golf Tournament.
Kekualā's Journey: Kekualā was born with a sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT), a rare tumor nearly the size of his body, attached to his tailbone. At just 2 days old, he underwent surgery to remove the tumor, spending the next 9 days in the NICU. In January 2023, follow-up scans revealed three new masses around his pelvis, which were later identified as cancerous germ cell tumors.
Kekualā bravely faced chemotherapy, with his final round ending just before his 1st birthday. Despite ongoing challenges and regular monitoring, he continues to inspire us with his strength and resilience.
We met Kekualā at the Pediatric Ambulatory Unit in Kapiolani Medical Center, where both he and Leigh received treatment. Inspired by his bravery, we celebrate his remarkable journey with inspiration from his favorite superheroes, Spidey and his Amazing Friends.
On October 6th, 2023 we hosted our inaugural Kaimanaola Benefit Golf Tournament at 360 Ewa Beach Country Club. Thanks to the generous donations from our sponsors and the amazing support from volunteers, on course vendors and friends, it was a huge success.
MAHALO!
2023 HIGHLIGHT VIDEO
by Luke Aguinaldo
Leigh's Story.
Leigh Kaimanaola Kema was born in May of 2019 and diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 at one month old. NF1 is a rare genetic disorder of the nervous system that affects cell growth and allows tumors to grow on nerves. In March of 2022, Leigh’s Ophthalmologist scheduled an MRI to address concerns with the bulging and laziness of her left eye. Immediately following the results, her life took a drastic turn. The MRI confirmed bilateral optic nerve gliomas, tumors had grown on both of her eyes. Leigh would undergo 14 months of chemotherapy in the Pediatric Ambulatory Unit at Kapiolani Medical Center to try and save her vision. The treatment helped to stabilize the tumors, but her life would never be the same.
Today, Leigh continues her routine checkups with MRIs and monitoring from various medical specialists. She receives IEP support from the DOE and ongoing speech and physical therapy sessions at Kapiolani. Leigh has lost all vision in her left eye, and has limited vision in her right. Tumors are still affecting her body in other areas.
Despite everything she has gone through, Leigh continues to thrive, adapt and grow. She is full of life and always smiling. Her strength is the reason this foundation was created and the reason we celebrate her and every future child we hope to support.
"Kaimanaola" - the spiritual essence of the sea
LKF Board Members
RICHARD ELLIOTT
CO-FOUNDER
PRESIDENT
With over 15 years of professional practice, Mr. Elliott brings a wealth of experience in building businesses in the construction industry. His expertise ranges from large-scale general contracting to customer service-based industries. With a background as an architect, general contractor, project manager, and subcontractor, Mr. Elliott has a unique perspective and understanding of all aspects of construction projects and leadership. Throughout his successful career, Mr. Elliott has demonstrated exceptional planning and leadership skills, resulting in the growth and success of numerous projects. His dedication and passion for the industry have made him a valuable asset in the non-profit sector as well, using his expertise to make a positive impact on the community.
LARSON LEU
CO-FOUNDER
VICE PRESIDENT
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mr. Larson Leu grew his passion for helping others through his family's "local style" upbringing. His tight knit family instilled a team driven approach to everything he does. You can catch Larson and his family sharing and working at charitable events supporting local organizations. His grit reflects his determination in everything he does and that he never shies away from rolling up his sleeves especially when helping others in need. Outside of his commercial real estate career, Mr. Larson Leu enjoys spending time with his wife and two kids. His “we > me” motto is transpired through the Leigh Kaimanaola Foundation as they grow and help others in the local community.
PAUL KEMA
DIRECTOR / TREASURER
A devoted husband and father to Leigh and her three sisters, Paul finds joy in spending his time away from his IT career outdoors with family and friends. Whether at the beach or exploring the mountains, creating meaningful family memories is at the heart of his life. His role with the Leigh Kaimanaola Foundation is deeply personal, dedicated to his daughter Leigh and the bright future ahead of her.
AARON LANGHOFF
SECRETARY
ASHLEY KEMA
COMMUNICATIONS