Akana siblings: Braelyn, Tasi, Tausili and Keonilei.
All she wants to do is play volleyball.
Keonilei Akana was born for the sport, but it almost came to an end in 2016 and '17. Brain tumors in a 10-month span could have stopped the talented Kamehameha player, but with the support of family and teammates, Akana rose above and beyond the adversity. She contributed as a sophomore to Kamehameha's 2017 state-title run.
As a senior, the Warriors overcame rivals ‘Iolani and Punahou en route to another state crown. She became a two-time Star-Advertiser All-State selection, including Player of the Year as a senior.
Akana shared her story for the first time in an essay as part of her application to USC. She wound up at Nebraska, one of the nation's powerhouse volleyball programs. One day before departing her hometown, Hauula, Akana shared her story with the hope of bringing comfort and confidence to the next athlete who faces a similar challenge.
My post on Pickled Mango Hawaii was published last Sunday. Special mahalo to Kaylei and her family, and Warriors coach Chris Blake, for sharing their time and her incredible story. It was a blessing to learn about their love as a family and their triumph through the immense obstacles.
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