Twelve-year-old Kainoa, affectionately called Kai, has spent much of the last two years navigating hospitals, treatments, and unanswered questions. Diagnosed with
a brain tumor in 2023, he has endured more than most kids.  

A thoughtful and low-key surfer boy from Waialua, Kai often found himself daydreaming during long hospital stays. One recurring image brought him comfort: golf carts. On the North Shore, they were a familiar sight, zipping through neighborhoods or heading to the beach. Imagining himself behind the wheel brought him a sense of normalcy and escape. 

Day after day, Kai would draw golf carts and imagine cruising with his brothers. These daydreams that reminded him of life before his diagnosis allowed him to picture the possibilities still ahead and became a bright spot during hard days. 

“As we’re in the hospital, there’s a lot of downtime, so I feel like that’s when most of the dreaming went on,” said his mom, Heidi. 

When wish granters asked what he would want more than anything, Kai didn’t hesitate. He wished for a golf cart of his own; one he personally designed, from the sea-blue paint and oversized wheels to LED lights and his nickname, “Kai Boi,” proudly displayed across the hood. 

His wish inspired a wave of generosity across the island. Board member Todd Bedford led the charge through his company, Lifeline Fire & Security, which proudly sponsored Kai’s wish. Several local businesses also stepped up to provide in-kind support and services. Golf Concepts provided the golf cart and new tires. Oahu Battery Sales & Service installed customizations. Pearlridge Fender and Body gave it a flawless finish with body work and paint. VRS Upholstery and Sales upholstered the seats, and Pacific Transfer safely transported it to Kai’s house. Together, they transformed the cart into something truly one-of-a-kind. 

The day of the reveal, Kai biked home from school, unaware his wish was about to come true. As he reached his driveway, Make-A-Wish Hawaii volunteers and neighbors opened the gate to reveal his custom golf cart, gleaming in the sunlight. Kai stepped off his bike in awe, his smile beaming at the sight. He paused for a moment, then, still awestruck, hugged his family and supporters as they celebrated enthusiastically. 

“He’s a stoic guy but Kai was so thrilled and his heart was so happy that he got choked up in a good way. I cried happy tears for him!” Heidi said.

The reveal gave Kai a tangible reminder that dreams can come true and that joy still has a place in his journey. But the wish meant something deeper to the family than just a fun occasion.

“The wish experience as a whole has not just been a wish. Our wish team has a relationship with Kai. It’s not a one-time wish. It’s been a friendship,” Heidi said.

After two years of appointments and tough conversations, the wish gave his family a chance to celebrate something purely good.

Kai’s wish wasn’t just about a golf cart. It was about restoring joy and a sense of childhood that illness had tried to take away.

For Kai, it was the ride of a lifetime. For everyone else, it was a reminder of what’s possible when compassion takes the wheel.