“Over the Rainbow”-and a volcano in Hawaii

This post reflects on Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” emphasizing his unique voice and connection to Hawaiian culture. It highlights his struggles with obesity and early death at 38, while contrasting Hawaii’s beauty with his legacy. I share my personal experiences in Hawaii, encouraging future adventures.

a rainbow and a volcano- watercresswords.com
updated December 6, 2025

israel kamakawiwo’ole somewhere over the rainbow

The first time I listened to this song, I had never heard of the artist. I was captivated by his calm, smooth voice, as well as his unique version of an iconic song.

In case you’re not old enough to remember (I’m not either), the song Over the Rainbow was written for the movie The Wizard of Oz in 1939. As Dorothy from Kansas became stranded in Oz, the late actress Judy Garland sang the song which won an Academy Award and is “one of the greatest movie songs of all times.”

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IZ- THE SINGER

Unlike Dorothy, Israel kamakawiwo’ole was not from Kansas, far from it. He was a native and lifelong resident of Hawaii. (I have been to both places; they could not be more different.)

He was a popular and beloved citizen and celebrity and his music represented and extolled the island’s geography and culture.

Unfortunately, he developed morbid obesity. At a reported height of 6’2” (1.88 m) and weighing 757 pounds (343 kilos), his body mass index (BMI) was 97. (BMI over 30 is defined as obese).

I have discussed BMI and obesity in a previous post What is obesity and why does it matter?

Due largely to his excess weight, his health suffered from lung and heart problems, eventually causing his untimely death at only 38 years old. All of Hawaii mourned his passing.

Fortunately, he left for Hawaii and the world a wealth of music to enjoy.

HAWAII- THE BIG ISLAND 

Several years ago my husband accompanied me to Hawaii to attend a medical conference. (If you have to sit and listen to medical lectures all day, that is definitely the place to do it)

Hawaii, the 50th state added to the United States of America,  is made up of 6 major islands.  The conference was on the Big Island, which is also called Hawaii.

One of the largest and most active volcanoes in the world is there at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park,  so it is a must-see. And we did.

couple , flowers, waterfall
leis (flowers) around our neck upon arrival

Exploring the volcano

  • man standing on black rocks
  • a volcanic crater closer view
  • woman at a volcano crater in Hawaii
boats, dock, water
On an island, you’re never far from water and boats
luau drums-Hawaii
musicians at the luau (feast)
dancers in grass skirts-Hawaii
It wouldn’t be Hawaii without grass skirts and hula dancing.
a hammock stretched between palm trees on the beach makes for a relaxing vacation.
Hawaii is often called a paradise for good reason

Thanks for sharing my memories of Hawaii, I hope you can go there too.

Where are you planning to go on your next adventure? What will make it a memorable experience for you and your traveling companions?

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Doctor Aletha

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Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me.

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