Behind the Lavalava
Welcome to Behind the Lavalava! Here, you will find authentic, firsthand perspectives on Pacific Island culture and life from a group of seasoned veterans. We share stories and express our opinions, all drawn from our own life experiences. This podcast places a special emphasis on all veterans, the people and cultures of the Pacific, and small businesses.
Behind the Lavalava
#104 Empowered Living: Navigating Alzheimer’s, Cancer, and Caregiving.
In this episode, we’re joined by Lulu Wolfgramm, Director of Empowered Living Services at PIK2AR (Pacific Island Knowledge to Action Resources), who shares her journey from a volunteer to leading a program that connects Pacific Islanders to health resources in Salt Lake City. Lulu discusses the mission of PIK2AR, which began as a violence prevention group and has evolved into a holistic community organization that supports both men’s and women’s empowerment. Now approaching its 10th anniversary, PIK2AR provides a wide range of health education, including on Alzheimer’s, cancer, and caregiving. Lulu, who is personally impacted by Alzheimer’s through her father and is a breast cancer survivor, emphasizes the importance of early detection and proactive health awareness in the Pacific Islander community. She highlights the need for open conversations around family medical history, the challenges of caregiving, and the importance of knowing and utilizing community resources like the Alzheimer’s Association, the Huntsman Cancer Institute, and cancer screening initiatives offered by PIK2AR and the Utah Pacific Islander Health Coalition.
Behind the Lavalava Foundation Sponsors:
Matai, American United Federal Credit Union, Pasifika Foods, Veteran Business Resource Center, Frontline Heroes, Warrior Revival, Top Gun Home Inspection, Natin But Grindz, Ladies in Bloom, All Pro Concrete Cutters, Eni & Hina Faleomavaega Foundation, Humana, Toko Uso Protection, Paradise Porch, Cyprus Credit Union.
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.