For Dr. Kato & family

You care for so many.We’re here
for you.

A place to send Dr. Kato and his family a little love, a favorite memory, or a few words of encouragement.

Dr. Kato outdoors, wearing diving gear
Dr. Kato smiling in his hospital room

Practical support

Help lighten
the load.

Personal gifts help Dr. Kato, Dr. Higgs, and their family with childcare and essential household needs during Dr. Kato’s hospitalization.

Personal-gift campaign · Contributions are not tax-deductible

Contribute to the family

Contribute via Venmo

Recipient: @chrislchung on Venmo
Christopher Chung on Zelle

The organizer receives no compensation. Contributions and distributions will be tracked and reported transparently.

View the original campaign flyer ↗

Words that stay with us

Send a little
love.

No perfect words needed. A simple “thinking of you” is enough. Photos and handwritten notes are welcome, too.

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Photos (optional)

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Messages and photos are reviewed together before they appear. Please keep private medical or contact information out of your submission.

Messages of support

Hi Dr. Kato. I was at home when I heard about your current situation. I felt so sad and all I could think about was when I 1st met you at Maui North. You were always so kind and humble. It's embarrassing to say but I actually cried that day. Your strength is just as inspiring as the warmth and kindness you show to everyone around you. I have always deeply appreciated that about you and the way you take care of your patients. These are qualities that can never be taught; they are simply within you. A golden heart that makes you an exceptional doctor. Sending my continuous prayers to you and your beautiful family. Get well soon to a truly wonderful doctor. With much love and respect, Jenette

Jenette

Dear Dr. Kato, we are Christopher’s parents. Christopher holds you in highest regard. We will be in Maui September 22-30. We can help care for your children - take them to and from school and their planned activities. We can do grocery shopping and make sure they are well fed. We will try our best to support your family as we would our own. We are glad you are improving. Please continue to be strong and get well very soon !! With the Deepest Sincerity, Kammie and Kenton

Kammie Wong and Kenton Chung

David, I'm so sorry to hear of your illness. I want to encourage you to stay strong and gain strength from those who love you. I am praying for you and your family. May God bless you.

Dr. Rob Williams

Aloha, David- I had a morning off for the first time in a while. I was excited but I had no coffee beans in the hopper. I had no great waves to surf. It was high tide and a little windy. I sat and watched the waves and then read your note about breathing the outside air in the courtyard. And I was deeply reminded- how my “so-called problems” are not problems at all…. I went in the water, enjoyed the salty water and breeze, surprisingly caught a bunch of waves, and felt really blessed that I could savor that moment, which would have been so easily missed without your reminder. Sending light and love to you, Elizabeth, kids, and all of the people taking care of you!

Shari Peach

Hang in there brother, I’m sure we’ll see you back here soon, lots of love!

Ioannis karakalpakis

Dear David Asuka, Reading your words on having new appreciation of “taking a deep breath of fresh air” brought tears to my eyes. I never thought of you being someone who took things for granted. You are a caring person who listens to everyone and always appreciates even the smallest things. You are our leader, you are our friend who taught us about being kind and now you are teaching us to notice all the little things we are gifted every day, even taking a breath of fresh air. While you are walking on this new “side road”, we are all praying for healing and strength. 加藤明日香さん、これからも回復を続けてください。あなたの周りにはたくさんの守護天使がいます。 Teri

Teri Bush

I pray that you continue to get better everyday. I am so happy that you are getting the care you need over there. I am sending my love and prayer for you and your family. If you need anything please reach out to me.

Kristen Tamura

David - you are an inspiration. It is when life is at the lowest that one’s true colors are shown. And all I have seen from you is strength, resilience, and kindness. You are an amazing human being and I am proud to know you. Keep on fighting.

Eri

Dr. Kato is one of the most dedicated physicians I know. He has such an intentional approach to caring for his patients with the utmost integrity. Thanks, Dave, for all you do for our community!

Chris Chung