national garden month: maryann’s story
Lynn ShibuyaIn honor of National Garden Month in April, meet HMSA member Maryann Roylo, a retired nurse who has lived with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) for over 50 years. ME/CFS causes bouts of fatigue that can vary from mild to severe. See how Maryann's beautiful backyard garden, which she built with her daughter Heather, supports her overall health. Plus, get health and safety tips for gardening from Dr. Toby Smith, an HMSA medical director who works with kupuna patients on the Big Island.
Eat Well
filipino food month: cooking from the heart
The unique flavors of Filipino cuisine are so delectable they’re celebrated every April during Filipino Food Month. In honor of this festive time, Jeanalyn Dungca, HMSA account servicing advocate I, shared memories of her Filipino heritage and a healthy and delicious recipe she still prepares today. Learn how to make tortang talong, or Filipino eggplant omelet, from Dungca and why it’s a go-to dish in her home.
Upcoming Events
Don't miss out on these events that are heading your way!
view more events
Saturday, April 26, 2025
8:00 AM-9:00 AM
Waipahu,
Oahu
Merrie Monarch Invitational Hawaiian Arts Fair
Saturday, April 26, 2025
9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Hilo,
Big Island
Saturday, April 26, 2025
9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Hana,
Maui County
From the Magazine
Take a look at some of the stories that made their way into the spotlight in this season's issue.
Concussions can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. They are particularly concerning in children, whose brains are still developing. This article will cover key facts such as common causes, symptoms, immediate action, recovery, prevention, and long-term effects.
Sometimes, it’s not possible to adopt or foster a pet. But you can still help shelter dogs go on adventures and get out of the kennel! We’ll take a look at how Oahu SPCA’s Doggy Day Trips are making a difference for these pups.
how to combat a sedentary lifestyle
According to WebMD, many people in the U.S. spend nine to 12 hours being sedentary, with the majority of hours spent during the workday. We’ll explore ideas on how to be more active even when your job requires you to sit for long periods of time.
kapaa: kauai’s biggest small town
Anyone who visits Kapaa on the eastside of Kauai can appreciate its natural beauty and charming small-town feel. But Jaime Nakamura, assistant manager of the HMSA Center in Lihue, feels lucky to call Kapaa home. Take a stroll down memory lane with Nakamura as she reminisces about growing up in Kapaa, what makes her hometown so special, and why she continues to live there today.
gardening: reaping the benefits
Maria Emerick dreamed of having her own garden since she was a child. The Honolulu registered dietitian now has a thriving backyard garden and offers tips to make yours healthy and bountiful.