Johnny Hekker sends heartfelt message to people of Hawaii amid tragic wildfires

Johnny Hekker, the Carolina Panthers’ accomplished punter, shared a heartfelt message about the situation in Hawaii on Wednesday morning.

“Just wanted to send our thoughts and prayers to people in Maui,” the 12-year NFL veteran told reporters Wednesday afternoon. He continued, “We’re taken aback by the loss of the wildfires there, and the people of the Hawaiian islands deserve a lot of aid immediately, and we hope to be a part of that.

“I think (Hawaii native) Kamu (Grugier-Hill) has some wheels on the ground, things we’re going to do from an organizational standpoint. So he’s working with (VP of Player Engagement) Kevin Winston and a few other guys to get some movement.”

Wildfires began on the island of Maui on August 8. As of Wednesday morning, more than 100 people have been confirmed dead in the blaze, which enveloped the historic port town of Lahaina. Hundreds more remain missing.

The news has captivated the country, and federal resources have been directed to the state. Said President Biden on Tuesday, via CBS: “Every asset they need will be there for them. And we’ll be there in Maui as long as it takes.”

Hekker’s comments Wednesday were prompted after he mentioned Grugier-Hill as an answer to a lighthearted question about who would be the “emergency long snapper” if needed.

“He’s got some real talent,” Hekker said of Grugier-Hill, who has been a special teams ace everywhere he’s been in his eight seasons in the NFL. “Great blocker too, great athlete down the field. Kamu’s the man.”

Grugier-Hill grew up near Papakolea Beach on O’ahu, the main island of Hawaii. The Panthers linebacker was the youngest of four siblings there and visits home a bunch. When people ask Grugier-Hill what his childhood was like there, Grugier-Hill smiles and talks of soccer and big family barbecues and the beach.

“To the people in Hawaii: We love you, we’re thinking about you and wishing you all the best,” Hekker said.