Hawaiian Teen Rescued After 12-Hour Ordeal Clinging to Kayak

An off-duty lifeguard and the U.S. Coast Guard successfully rescued a 17-year-old who capsized and drifted miles from shore.

Kahiau Kawai, 17, became separated from his high school paddling team near Waikiki Beach and was found clinging to his kayak after capsizing.
The U.S. Coast Guard initiated a search using helicopters and boats, locating Kawai approximately 12 hours after he went missing.
Off-duty lifeguard Noland Keaulana, Kawai's uncle, played a crucial role in the rescue, searching throughout the night and reaching him after the Coast Guard dropped a flare.
Kawai was treated for hypothermia and other injuries and remains in serious but stable condition at a local hospital.
Kawai's parents expressed gratitude to all rescue teams involved, highlighting the bravery and resilience of their son during the ordeal.