Hawaii Pacific University starts state’s first Doctor of Physical Therapy program

When Malia Lauer was 24, she wanted to become a physical therapist. Born and raised in Pupukea, Lauer would have applied to a Doctorof Physical Therapy program in Hawaii, but not a single one existed, so she left for San Diego. She eventually came back, helping rehabilitate injured surfers on Maui and treating patients in rural Hana who sometimes had left more complex issues unchecked without consistent visits to adoctor.