About Florelle
Florelle Darden Gwaltney, a native of Smithfield , VA , died of anorexia on May 18, 2002 on Kauai where she had resided for six years. She had suffered for forty years from anorexia, an eating disorder, which can decimate the body and is life-threatening. The disease ravaged her body and ultimately caused her death. During her adolescence, she exhibited the first signs of anorexia, not eating enough food, constantly worrying about her weight and compulsively exercising. There was no known treatment at that time and the family felt helpless, because they did not know how to help her.
Florelle was a Yoga instructor and was interested in the holistic healing arts. She helped many people who were handicapped with crippling diseases to have a better quality of life. She was known for her vibrant spirit, love and kindness and was loved by everyone she met.
She had always wanted to live her last years on Kauai and she made the right choice. During the last six years of her life on Kauai , she made numerous friends in the community. They loved and nurtured her; she returned their affection.
Florelle died on Kauai and a Hawaiian memorial service was conducted by one of her friends, a Hawaiian priest. Friends blew the conch shell, danced hula, played the guitar and sang. After the service, everyone threw rose petals into the ocean and her ashes were scattered into the Pacific Ocean , as she had requested.
The Gwaltney family was touched by the love and care that the people of Kauai had given Florelle. A decision was made to set up a foundation where funds could be collected to design and implement educational and prevention programs which focus on positive body image, raising self-esteem, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices.
To keep Florelle's spirit alive there are three ways that you can assure the success of “Florelle's Ohana”.
- Make a financial contribution to “Florelle's ‘Ohana”
- Share your expertise by volunteering
- Call Dr. Tiffany Niide, 808-346-2964 if you have questions, information to share, or want to get involved.
