In the Summer of 2020, Surfrider Spirit Sessions (SSS) met a kūpaʻa young wahine, Keʻale. She was referred by Lili’uokalani Trust’s Lydia House, a transitional living space for homeless former foster youth during COVID. Keʻale is the granddaughter of the late surfing legend “Buttons,” and to no surprise, has a natural born talent for surfing. She recalls her grandfather teaching her surfing as a keiki and never feared the ocean or life when Buttons was around.
Keʻale affirmed, “Grandpa’s legacy was to spread aloha by meeting new people. He was a soul surfer. He showed me how to be yourself and be your strengths to see what you can create.”
“Buttons” Kaluhiokalani started surfing at the age of 9 and turned heads across the island and on North Shore in a timeless era of surfing. Alongside many other surfing legends, Buttons cultivated and pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a shortboard. He later battled addiction in his adult life but diligently worked on his sobriety and began speaking to Hawaiian youth about the importance of living a clean life. While rebuilding relationships with his family and friends, he opened Buttons Surf School in the North Shore and dedicated his time to helping oppressed and disabled individuals find a passion for surfing and paddling.
“He died really early, but we knew he was always a strong man. An aloha man,” Keʻale recounts as she shares her memories of him. She adds, “you never know someone’s background or where they came from, so everyone you come across should always be treated with kindness. He taught me to have an everlasting impression on others because of your character.” Uncle Sam, SSS Program Manager and Surf Instructor, stumbled upon a beautiful opportunity. Months prior to Keʻale participating in Spirit Sessions, Sam was donated six used surfboards. When Sam had a chance to start cleaning up the donated boards, he noticed one board had Buttons name on it.
As Sam got to know Keʻale, he couldn’t help but notice her poise, maturity, talent, and the way she gracefully carried herself. On Graduation Day (Week 8), program youth were presented with a lei and a certificate of completion, but Sam had another gift in mind for Keʻale. He presented her with her grandfather’s old surfboard. Overwhelming emotions of tears, chills, smiles and laughter filled the SSS ʻOhana as Keʻale unwrapped Buttons board. She expressed how grateful she was for the wonderful gift because her family owns few of his things. Although the short board is too difficult for her surf yet, Keʻale is up for the challenge as it gives her yet another reason to continue connecting with her late grandfather’s legacy. Her goal is to be able to ride Buttons board someday soon!
“SSS helped me get back into surfing and exploring my passion for the ocean! It was impactful for me just to watch the other youth and mentors surf” Keʻale shared. “We got to write letters, meet new people and guest speakers, and engage in the community. The whole experience was great!” Uncle Sam recounts that everything related to Buttons board was coincidental, yet somehow not a coincidence at all. SSS is thankful for moments like these that bring the surfing community together, especially in this chaotic world. Connecting with people and the land, while spreading the aloha spirit is a priceless gift we can share. Treat others with kindness and ‘Love Like Buttons.’