GoFundMe launched in support of Willie K’s cancer battle

The family of iconic Hawaiian entertainer Willie Kahaiali‘i is asking for donations to help cover medical expenses and loss of income while dealing with his recently announced cancer diagnosis.

Kahaiali‘i’s sister, Rae Kahaiali‘i, said the musician known worldwide as Uncle Willie K has completed the second of four rounds of chemotherapy and is currently undergoing a 15-day regimen of twice-daily radiation treatments.

“Willie is very optimistic about his condition and will definitely fight this all the way,” she wrote via email. “The overwhelming and heartfelt words of encouragement, life experiences, continued love, support and prayers are truly and greatly appreciated.”

According to his family, Kahaiali‘i is declining all interview requests while undergoing treatment.

Kahaiali‘i last performed Feb. 4 on Maui at an event booked before his cancer diagnosis; longtime musical collaborator Amy Hanaiali‘i will replace Kahaiali‘i at his Blue Note Waikiki gigs scheduled for Feb. 20 and March 20 with an Oahu fundraiser also in the works, according to a Star-Advertiser story published Feb. 3.

Friends and fans who would like to contribute toward Kahaiali‘i’s mounting medical bills can donate online at GoFundMe.com. As of this afternoon, approximately $21,000 of the $100,000 requested has been raised.

“We appreciate anything you may offer whether financially or spiritually,” said Rae Kahaiali‘i. “If you can or cannot donate we always appreciate your prayers of strength and healing.”