Motivated by overcoming Hodgkin's lymphoma at age 18, during a lengthy stay in the Kapiolani Medical Center Pediatric department, Jamie decided to dedicate her life to caring for children after graduating from the University of Hawaii in 2001. With a gentle smile and caring persona, she worked for 5 years as a Certified Child Life Specialist Assistant at Kapiolani Medical Center, assisting pediatric patients and their families to cope with the stress and anxiety related to hospitalization, through education, preparation, and play.
Jamie would then shift her focus to assisting the Windward Oahu community, while working for the Castle Medical Center Child Development Center, providing daycare and education for the six-month to two-year old children at the center. From her former coworkers, "Children always seem to be naturally drawn to Jamie's caring and sweet nature. She is a true example of the golden rule in treating others."
It was during this time in her life, that she would meet and share her love for Disney and Pixar movies, beaches, and her family and faith with her husband, Dan. After marrying in 2010, their new family would become complete with the blessed arrival of their son, Daxton, on March 28, 2012. Jamie would fill her days supporting her family's love for the ocean, Hot Wheels and Tomica cars, Tsum Tsums, and enjoying the company of her extended and loving family. Her only additional requirements for happiness were periodic foot massages, Starbucks coffee, occasional Cookie Corner cookies, and chocolate....dark chocolate to be exact.
Jamie's cherished time with her family would be tragically cut short with the discovery of her final bout of cancer. In spite of not being blessed with perfect health, Jamie would always exhibit the true spirit of a warrior patient, showing the will to persevere through the direst of health circumstances. "She is and always will be my miracle. Jamie was the strongest person I know," says Dan.
Jamie was predeceased by her grandfather, Warren Chikuma, and grandparents Wallace and Ellen Amioka. Jamie is survived by her husband, Dan and son, Daxton Ota. She is also survived by her grandmother, Mildred Chikuma; parents, Bradford and Joanne Chikuma; sister, Julie Isa; niece and nephews, Nicole, Mason, Landon, and Kolton Isa; parents-in-law, Isaac and Lorraine Ota; brother-in-law, Kevin Ota (Jocelyn); and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Private services were held by the family.
Arrangements Provided By: Hosoi Garden Mortuary