The Case for a Level I Trauma Center in Kona:
Prioritizing Lives, Ohanas, and Our Community
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE: THE GOLDEN HOUR matters
Trauma victims’ chances of survival drop by 20-25% for every 30-minute delay in care. Without a Level I Trauma Center, emergency airlifts to Oahu—averaging $10,000 per trip—are the only option, taking 2-3 hours when factoring in flight time, logistics, and hospital readiness, costing more lives.
LIMITED TRAUMA CARE OPTIONS OUTSIDE OF OAHU
The only Level I and Level II trauma centers in Hawaii are on Oahu, overworked, and hundreds of miles away. The Level II trauma center only serves military-affiliated individuals, leaving the rest of us without access to this advanced trauma care.
THE ISLAND AND VISITOR Population ARE GROWING
Big Island’s population has grown by nearly 80%, and over 12 million visitors come annually. In 2021 alone, Kona Community Hospital handled over 22,000 emergency room visits, straining its outdated infrastructure and resources for both residents and tourists.
the existing infrastructure is outdated
Kona Community Hospital, built nearly 50 years ago, is no longer in the area with the highest population density, leaving many residents far from critical care. The hospital is also at risk of losing its Level III trauma designation due to aging infrastructure and lack of resources.
PLANS FOR A NEW HOSPITAL location IN KONA are already being made
With a new hospital already in the works for Kona, it’s the perfect time to ensure it includes a Level I Trauma Center to meet the needs of both residents and visitors.
family hardship: emotional AND financial
When loved ones are airlifted to Oahu, families face impossible choices: pay steep travel and accommodation costs or remain separated during critical moments, adding emotional and financial stress to an already tragic situation.
Rhonda "Dee" DePontes Freedman
March 5, 1959 - July 14, 2022
Rhonda Would Go reflects who Rhonda was—a woman who always went above and beyond for her family, friends, and community. If she hadn’t been tragically taken, she would still be fighting for her rights and those of her loved ones. Since she can no longer fight, we are going for her.
This website honors Rhonda's legacy but, most importantly, ensures that no other family endures what hers is going through. By speaking up, we can make a difference—advocating for a trauma center in Kona on Big Island. Our mission is rooted in Ohana, justice, accountability, righteousness, unity, and trust for all in the local community.
ROMANS 10:15
And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written:
"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
