The power of determination in facing disability
Born in Samoa in the 1950s, Silivelio Fasi moved to Aotearoa as a young man in search of better opportunities. Six years ago he experienced paralysis to the right side of his body as the result of a stroke.
Esala Vakamacawai and Silivelio Faso have a talanoa session.
After his diagnosis Silivelio felt hopeless and confused as he had no history of high blood pressure and was unaware of the signs and symptoms of his illness. Eventually, his natural optimism and strong will kicked in and Silivelio decided to fight through for the sake of his family. He said to himself, “As long as there is air in my lungs and I’m still breathing, I will not let this disease dictate my life.”
Vaka Tautua’s Disability Coordinator in Christchurch, Esala Vakamacawai, meets with Silivelio regularly as part of a new Tagata Sa’ilimalo Talanoa programme. They connect over coffee during their talanoa sessions and Sili often shares how determined he is to live an independent life.
With perseverance he has regained enough power in his affected limb to drive himself to church and visit relatives. Sili prefers to do his daily chores without help from his family, believing that staying active and not letting chronic pain and fatigue defeat him will aid his rapid recovery.
Silivelio loves to be around people, sharing a laugh and chatting about sports, politics, life, and health. These coping mechanisms have enabled him to continue making a positive contribution to his family and community, despite the physical and medical challenges he faces.
His story is an inspiration to others who may be facing similar struggles, that positivity in adversity and rising above life’s challenges can lead to better outcomes. Sili’s aspiration to improve his own life through willpower and motivation is an example to all.
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s Tagata Sa’ilimalo Disability Services