Kauai Singer Overcomes Double Cancer Diagnosis with Help from Hawaii Pacific Health Teams

Ilima Rivera was raised on stage by her father, well-known Kauai entertainer Larry Rivera, also known as "Mr. Coco Palms."

Ilima grew up to be a talented singer and award-wining songwriter herself. That's why in 2021, it came as a devasting shock when Ilima lost her ability to sing.

She was diagnosed with stage 3 esophageal cancer by Wilcox Medical Center Gastroenterologist Dr. Romeo Esquivel. The severity of Ilima's esophageal cancer, combined with the recurrence of her breast cancer soon after the esophageal cancer diagnosis, put her life at extreme risk.

Dr. Esquivel and the Wilcox Oncology team worked closely with Dr. James O'Brien and his team at Straub Benioff Medical Center on Oahu to provide Ilima with immediate care to save her.

Because of the teams' quick attention to detail and ability to work together seamlessly across the Hawaii Pacific Health system, Ilima was able to fully recover and find her voice again.

Since then, Ilima has won an award at a Kauai composers contest for her song "Be Strong as a Warrior," which reflects back on her cancer journey.

Watch the video below for Ilima's full story and to hear more about this inspiring story of hope, along with a sneak listen to her song "Be Strong as a Warrior."

Published on: November 18, 2024