BY KRISTIN BORDEN
In 1970, the Kazan family made a life-altering decision to move to the picturesque Palos Verdes Peninsula, fondly referred to as “the Hill.” This choice would go on to shape their lives in ways they could have never imagined. For Kyle and Diane Kazan, the Peninsula became the backdrop of a story marked by strength, community, and a deep commitment to giving back.
Kyle reflects on those early days with a sense of gratitude, “Growing up in this environment was an excellent experience,” he reminisces. The Peninsula offered an exceptional education, the rejuvenating embrace of the fresh ocean air, and an unparalleled sense of safety. As a result, when Diane suggested relocating from a house they had purchased in Redondo Beach to Palos Verdes in 1997, Kyle needed no convincing. He knew it was the ideal place to raise a family.
Diane attended Carson HIgh, while Kyle attended Palos Verdes High School. The PVHS tradtion continued with their oldest son, Keoni, becoming a proud Sea King. “Whichever high school Ikaika selects would make me proud because both have placed academic excellence as the top priority,” Kyle says, acknowledging the educational advantages of the Peninsula.
Their journey with the Cancer Support Community (CSC) South Bay began in 2000, in the midst of life’s unexpected twists. Diane’s breast cancer diagnosis that year was a life-altering moment. As Diane recollects, “When I was diagnosed with cancer on December 11th of 2000, I was in my 30’s with a 6-month-old baby. In other words, I was not prepared, nor was I thinking in any way of hearing someone say, ‘you have cancer!’” Her cancer diagnosis, like for many, was an abrupt stop to her plans and dreams.
However, amidst the turmoil, their lives intersected with CSC South Bay.
Read More at PalosVerdesMagazine.com