A view of the Kalaupapa Peninsula, where leprosy patients once lived in forced isolation.
A very special birthday was recently celebrated in Hawaii. Earlier this month, on April 12, John Arruda, the oldest patient on the historic Kalaupapa Peninsula, celebrated his 100th birthday.
Turning 100 is a monumental occasion, no matter where you live or what your story is. However, given the circumstances surrounding his life and residence, this celebration of his 100th anniversary took on a little more significance.
A historic birthday in a historic place
The Kalaupapa Peninsula is located on the north coast of Molokai and is one of the most unique locations on all of the islands.
In the mid-1800s, there was an epidemic of leprosy in Hawaii. The Hawaiian royal family, concerned that the infection would spread rapidly among the population, forced all infected people to be quarantined on the Kalaupapa Peninsula. The Kalaupapa Peninsula is separated from the rest of the island by high sea cliffs and the ocean.
From the mid-1800s to the mid-1900s, approximately 8,000 people were sent to Kalaupapa to live in isolation with other infected people.
It was not until after World War II that modern treatments for leprosy became available and forced isolation was lifted. However, many patients (now technically former patients) decided to remain in Kalaupapa because it had become their home.
Currently, eight former patients remain on Kalaupapa's registry, including Arruda, some of whom still live on the peninsula.
“John's refusal to be defined by adversity and his determination to embrace life with boundless energy and joy is a priceless testament to the power of hope and the human spirit,” Gov. Josh Green said in a public eulogy. . “His tireless advocacy to preserve Kalaupapa's heritage is a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring our shared history and caring for our community. His sexual laughter and zest for life are a constant source of inspiration for those around him.
In 1980, Kalaupapa became a National Historical Park and was eventually opened to public visitation. The tour, which attracted 100 people per day, showcased what life was like on the peninsula during the height of the pandemic.
Close, but still closed
But now, the birthday celebration will take place as Kalaupapa enters its fifth year of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although all health restrictions have been lifted, a combination of factors including trail safety, realigning flights to and from the peninsula, and arranging our own tour operators means the park will remain closed. I am.
Pressure to reopen national historical parks to visitors has increased in recent days, with park staff recently saying they are “closer” to reopening. But for now, travelers heading to Hawaii this year should note that the national park grounds remain closed and inaccessible.
You can read the full story of Kalaupapa's history and reopening hurdles in CNN's recent article on National Parks Week.
