Nothing can stop teens from attending their first prom – except maybe an illness that lands them in the hospital. For the past four years, the staff and volunteers at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children have done the seemingly impossible and brought the prom to their patients, not only to extend the care they provide to patients every day, but to create a fun, comfortable and safe environment for patients to have an unforgettable experience.
“The purpose of the Kapiolani Prom is to make sure that teens who missed their high school functions due to their medical conditions have the opportunity to have the full experience of anticipation, formal dress, flowers, dinner, DJ, photography and spirited dancing in a magical setting,” says Kapiolani Rehabilitation Services Director Susan LaFountaine, who oversees Child Life Services, which puts on the annual formal event.
While the prom relies on the support of the Child Life department, which is funded solely through donations, the event also receives support from local businesses. Generous members of the community donated their time and resources to make this year’s Kapiolani Prom a night to remember.
With the theme “Come Fly Away!,” the Kapiolani cafeteria was transformed with décor that took participants on a tour around the world. Henna art by HennaLove Hawaii provided a temporary reminder of a trip to India, while gelato gave patients a taste of Italy.
“If you ever get asked to go to the hospital prom – just GO!!!” said a Kapiolani patient who attended the prom for the first time this year. “You will have so much fun dancing, taking pictures and making new friends. But best of all, you will make good memories.”
Many thanks to supporters for this event, including:
- Steven Boyle Designs – décor and florals
- The Bella Project – dresses
- Aaron Domingo – live music
- Shane Tsukuyama – live music
- Exquisite Entertainment – DJ services
- Sodexo Hawaii – food
- Millie – candy and gelato bar
- HennaLove Hawaii – henna art
- Photo Ops Hawaii – photo booth
- Shannon Sasaki Photography – professional photography
- ACES XP, LLC – photography supplies
- Symbologie – invitations
- Elite Parking Services – valet parking