The Laughing Samoans with Vishal Lal and his daughter Nishita. Photo: TIM WILSON.
With Suva and Nadi still abuzz with memories from the Laughing Samoans “Fresh Off Da Blane” shows last week, the comedy duo took time to reflect on the impact their 2014 Fiji Tour had had, both on themselves and the fans.
“The trip was an absolute joy for us,” front-man Eteuati Ete said. “The fans who turned out to see us at both shows were amazing, and we certainly felt and heard the love and the laughter.”
“Thank you to WOWS Kids Fiji and the Uto Ni Yalo Trust for bringing us to Fiji.”
Aside from the laughter and frolicking, Ete emphasised that visiting the kids in the Lautoka, Nadi and CWM hospitals was a highlight for them.
“To know that what we do provides some relief for the children and parents going through so much hardship is humbling and satisfying,” he said.
“Please continue to support the work that WOWS Kids Fiji does. Thank you to the countless volunteers who supported the initiative and of course the sponsors without whom we couldn’t have charged such low prices. Vinaka, Fiji. Love you right back!”
WOWS Kids Fiji chairman Makrava Wilson reminded members that this tour was not a fundraiser but part of the awareness campaign as the group re-launches the brand and establishes its registration.
“We are waiting for the accounts to be finalised before sending them for auditing,” Mr Wilson said, “and once that process is complete, we will make the accounts public.”
Meanwhile, comedy partner Tofiga Fepulea’i echoed Ete’s sentiments.
“It’s always a great feeling performing in front of people, but the two shows in Fiji were simply an honour,” he said. “It was humbling to perform as part of WOWS Kids Fiji, and it felt special to perform and bring laughter to families with kids suffering with cancer.”
“To know that what we love doing on stage can make a positive difference to these children is the greatest reward for me as a performer and as a human being.”
“To see the smiles on the faces of the kids and hear the laughter from them in the front row, that was priceless.”
Aunty Tala then gave thanks to the “beautiful people of Nadi and Suva”, adding that they look forward to coming back again with a brand new show.
To see the photo galleries from the Laughing Samoans Fiji Tour, please go to the WOWS Kids Fiji Facebook page.
PRESS RELEASE
Background
In 2005 at age 12, Tae Kami was diagnosed with a rare cancer of the jaw, which meant extensive and costly specialised treatment in New Zealand.
After several very complex operations over a period of three years, Tae passed away in August 2008.
Before she left us, she wrote the song Walk On Walk Strong as an encouragement to other patients and families struggling with cancer.
The Tae Kami Foundation was set up initially in Tonga by Tae’s parents, Taholo and Sina, with the hope of helping other Pacific families dealing with the same heartache.
The same work has been carried out by the WOWS Committee in Fiji.
Related website links:
Tae Kami Foundation
Tribute to Tae (Tagata Pasifika):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEXWQWvg_w0
Walk On Walk Strong – Tae’s Song
http://www.taekamifund.org/music/walkontk.mp3