Tonga Police visit delights young leukaemia sufferer [1]
Monday, February 16, 2009 - 18:34. Updated on Thursday, July 30, 2015 - 15:26.
Sitting proudly in the Tonga Police Commander's chair on February 13, was 11-year-old leukaemia sufferer Ikuna Vunipola, who was delighted with a special visit and tour of the Tonga Police Headquarter at Longlongo.
Accompanied by his grandparents Hiva and Vika Vunipola, the strong and brave little boy enjoyed a special performance of the Tonga Police Brass Band, and lent a hand as a conductor.
Sgt Latu said they first met Ikuna during a Police Band School Program at the Veitongo Government Primary School last week.
"After learning of his illness we decided to include him in our program and invite him down to the station," he said.
Ikuna said he was very happy to be visiting the Police station and thanked everyone for their efforts.
The youngster also met with Commander Chris Kelley who commended him for his bravery.
"I can relate to Ikuna's illness because I too had cancer in my own family and I know it is really hard on the family and for such a young boy," he said.
He then praised the importance of the Police Band's outreach program to schools, "because if we the police can get the confidence and respect of the young children then we have their trust for life, and they feel they can come to us."
Ikuna's grandmother Vika said Ikuna was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2007 and the doctors advised the family that there is nothing they can do, and predicted the boy had at least six months to live, but he has made it this far.
"What we are doing now is just keep making him happy everyday."
Ikuna was a Class 5 student at Veitongo GPS before he stayed home due to his illness.