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Performer Moe Keale
in critical care unit

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By John Berger
Special to the Star-Bulletin

Word is expected later today on the condition of Hawaiian entertainer and respected kupuna Moe Keale, who remains in the critical care unit at Castle Hospital after suffering what was first believed to be a heart attack Monday afternoon.

Keale, 61, was rushed to the hospital after he experienced weakness and lightheadedness while his and his wife, Carol, were exercising at 24 Hour Fitness in the Windward City Shopping Center. Keale passed out while getting off a tread mill. A doctor at the gym used the facility's defibrillator to provide treatment until the ambulance arrived.

A representative of the Keale ohana said late yesterday that doctors were not sure whether Keale suffered a heart attack, but had monitored his vital signs until his condition had stabilized.

The unofficial medical report at the moment is that his heart is "working beautifully" and that he is also breathing well and responding to his son, Nalani.

Keale will remain in the critical care unit for observation until his doctors are sure they know what caused the problem and can prevent it from happening again.

A spokesman for the Keales thanks people for their prayers and good wishes but asks that they refrain from visiting the hospital at this time.

Keale has been known as one of the islands' distinctive vocalists for several decades. He recorded as a member of the Sons of Hawaii in 1970, and then with Anuenue, but fully emerged as a recording artist with the 1980 "South Sea Island Magic" album.

The album's title track was an apt description of the warmth Keale has shared for years with audiences in his weekly performances poolside at the Sheraton Waikiki.

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