McDonald’s Maui Donates Pink Canoe to Mana’olana Pink Paddlers

By Wendy Osher

Mana'olana Canoe.

The Mana’olana Pink Paddlers, a group of cancer survivors and supporters, are the recipient of a new pink canoe, donated by McDonald’s of Maui.

“The goal of Mana’olana Pink Paddlers is to design, execute, and promote hope, health, fitness and fun, utilizing traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoes to encourage physical exercise and to build confidence and camaraderie. Our members and supporters are committed to working together to make a difference,” said Mana’olana President Gloria Snyder.

A canoe blessing and dedication ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 26, 2011 at the Maui Canoe Club located at Kealia/Sugar Beach. The “Perfectly Pink” celebration will recognize special guests Diana Sumida and Erlinda Rosario, owners/operators of McDonald’s Maui for their support, as well as Fred Turner, Honorary Chairman of McDonald’s Corporation, and the Board of Directors of Maui Canoe Club.

The Blessing ceremony will be conducted by Mana’olana’s spiritual advisor Kimokeo Kapahulehua, with entertainment provided by 808UKE JAMS.

“We feel giving back to the community is the right thing to do,” said officials from McDonald’s of Maui. “We’re proud to support cancer survivors and hope to inspire others to join in this mission.”

Mana’olana was founded in 2006 by David Williams of the Maui Canoe Club and Joanna Hutton, a coach of “A Breast in a Boat” in Vancouver. The organization now includes supporters and survivors of all cancers.

Cancer survivors and supporters who would like to learn more about the organization or join Mana’olana are encouraged to attend. For information about Mana’olana Pink Paddlers, please call 808.879.1558.