Interesting Islanders

Meet Brenda May Kuuipouluwehi Chapman

It happened one random morning. It always sneaks up that way. One quick look in the mirror and the truth was revealed. I was disappearing, becoming non-existent. Dull and lifeless hair -- hovering precariously between dirty dishwasher blonde and brown mousey -- crowned my mortified face like a used mop.
Eek.
People of the female persuasion know this one fact of life holds steadfast and true -- a woman's identity is completely wrapped up and intertwined in the roots of her hair and, for me, that strong sense of self-esteem enjoyed only yesterday was fading rapidly.
My 18-year-old daughter, Bethany, responded quickly to the loud, guttural groans coming from deep within this old body. After one look, she suggested calling a certain salon in Hilo.
Shakily, I dialed the number, sending up a quick prayer that I would find a stylist of my dreams. A person with a gentle touch. One who could highlight hair like a pro and bring my miserable self-image back to life. Whoever it was would need a great personality. He or she would have to be a good listener -- always a must with hair dressers. And, a great counselor. That's always top on the list.
It was a tall order to fill on such short notice, but I summoned every drop of faith and made an appointment. That's how I met 46-year-old Brenda May Kuuipouluwehi Chapman. She took one look at my pathetic state and began immediate CPR for the hair.
A hefty 16 years of experience in the field of cosmetology made Brenda a natural at diagnosing and fixing my folic-ally challenged state. She calmed me down and listened patiently to all my hair-raising tales. A diatribe to most, she smiled wide, giving a positive sign everything was going to be all right.
"Relationships with others is important," Brenda mused in a soothing voice. "Talking to one another. You have to be a psychologist in this profession. You do. You have to know how to counsel people."
I began to relax and see myself clearly in the mirror. And I began to ask questions. Lots of questions.
I found out Brenda is a 1975 graduate of Farrington High School on Oahu. She had to travel all the way across the country to meet her husband, Rodney, a fair skinned, red-headed southerner from Atlanta, Georgia at the Teen Challenge Bible Institute in Pennsylvania during the early 1980s.
The couple fell in love, got married in June 1983 and worked on Maui for a short time at a drug rehabilitation center before moving to Hilo 19 years ago to start and raise a family.
During that time Brenda completed a degree in Anthropology and Communications at the University of Hawaii, Hilo Campus, which is actually the perfect degree for someone who loves to be with people and wala'au all day long.
"I love to be around people," Brenda said. "I figure what better way to do that but through this job. I feel solid here."
I floated out of the salon that day, feeling whole and happy again. Brenda had succeeded. The nasty roots had gone through a complete makeover and my self-worth was totally transformed.
Although I was Brenda's last appointment for the day, it wasn't the end of work for this nurturing woman. After hours she volunteers for the "Look Good, Feel Better" program run by the American Cancer Society. She helps women suffering from cancer to regain their inner strength, dignity and beauty. Yes, she makes other women visible and vibrant too.
"I teach the women how to take care of their skin, hair, nails and face," Brenda said. "It blesses me to bless others. I love touching and encouraging people. I'm never running on empty. I'm fulfilled."
A beautiful reflection of a lovely and talented woman, one whose gentle and sweet spirit flows effortlessly into every part of her life and into both the hearts and onto the heads of the people living around East Hawaii.