Cinder's Story
English
Chuukese
Cinder and her husband grew up on a small island in Micronesia, where there is stigma against seeing doctors. Even after they moved to Hawaii and her husband became an advocate for their community, he didn’t want to receive treatment for his hepatitis B. When he became seriously ill, Cinder cared for him every day for two years at the medical center. After he passed away, Cinder took up his mantle in their community by interpreting, volunteering at the church, enrolling people in health insurance, and educating others about hepatitis B.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
Why did Cinder’s husband avoid going to the doctor? (In the Micronesian community, it is a common belief “real” men bear pain and should not seek medical help.)
How did her husband’s death inspire Cinder’s work in her community? (She took over his duties interpreting. She also educates the community about hepatitis B and helps people enroll in health insurance.)
How has singing helped Cinder’s healing? (She first started singing to her husband while he was in the hospital and now sees it as a release that helps her cope with her grief and fears.)
Cinder's story is available in English and Chuukese.