Stories by Jeff Hansel

State: ’Please go get vaccinated’

State health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza, cover their mouths when coughing, wash their hands, and stay home if they’re sick to protect vulnerable kids and adults.

Obituaries for January 6

Sharon Mae Fujiwara, 68, of Hilo died Dec. 23 at home. Born in Hilo, he was a retired service supervisor at Bank of Hawaii. Visitation 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at Dodo Mortuary Chapel. Memorial service at 5 p.m. Casual attire. Survived by son, Sheldon (Leigh Ann) Yokomizo of Hilo; daughter, Cindy (Kevin) Iwata of Hilo; sisters, Jo Ann (Arnold) Inouye of Honolulu and Dorothy (Raymond) Chang of Hilo; stepson, Fred Fujiwara of Hilo; stepdaughter, Tina Fujiwara of Hilo; brother-in-law, Donald Fujiwara of Kailua-Kona; sisters-in-law, Debra Fujiwara and Rachel (Wilfred) Soong of Honolulu; 10 grandchildren; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.

Cancer patient turns to hospice for remaining days

Editor’s Note: This is the fourth story in an occasional series, called “The Dying Project,” about the dying process of Daniel Morii, who, along with his spouse, Shari, invited the community and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald to follow their experiences.

Study sheds light on rat lungworm prevalence

New research released Monday shows that almost 94 percent of rats in the Hilo region are infested with Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the parasitic nematode that causes rat lungworm disease in humans.

Volunteerism high on wish list for nonprofits

Editor’s note: The 2017 Hawaii Tribune-Herald Wish List features gift ideas for area organizations and their clients who might not otherwise receive gifts. During this time of giving, we invite you to consider fulfilling wishes from the list accompanying this article. To offer a gift, contact featured organizations or your own favorite nonprofit.