LAHAINA, Hawai'i – It's been a long week and a half for the West Maui community as the state of Hawai'i has rallied together to show aloha and support for those affected by the Lahaina fires on Aug. 8.
Among those who are safe and are now on the long road to recovery are a few former Hawai'i Hilo student-athletes who hailed from Lahaina and had returned to the Valley Isle following their time on the Big Island.
Krystlelyn Omlan, a Lahainaluna '04 product, was a Vulcans sharpshooter on the basketball court for two seasons across 2006-08, while Chris Shimomura (Lahainaluna '10) was a top golfer on the links from 2010-14.
Both had made it out safe along with their families and were able to post updates on social media despite unreliable mobile data service over the last week.
Omlan gave an update on Facebook the evening of Aug. 9: "We are safe in Kahului at the moment. Our homes on the other hand is in complete dust. My heart aches for Lahaina, for all the families. Let's stay strong and prayers are needed. Stay safe everyone. Thanks to everyone reaching out."
Shimomura posted on his personal Facebook profile shortly after noon on Aug. 11: "Cell reception is very spotty and power is still out but wanted to let everyone know that myself and parents are okay. Thank you for all the messages! Mahalo to all MPD, MFD, first responders, and volunteers for everything you do!"
Omlan gave a later update earlier this week on Instagram stating that she had been posted at Prince Nahi'ena'ena Elementary School in upper Lahaina helping organize food, water and clothes for those still in the area.
"Trying to keep busy as time goes by slow for us here in Lahaina. Lahaina we will get through this. Our houses and buildings are gone but not our home."
