Photos by Caroline Manu

Hon. Frederica Tuita-Filipe

The Tae Kami Foundation raised $25,000 pa’anga for the Children's Ward at Vaiola Hospital last week at the end of its “Walk on, Walk Strong” fundraising campaign 2013 in Nuku’alofa.

The foundation remembers Lu‘isa Tae Kami Jr. (15) who died in 2008 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. The family set up the foundation to help other children with cancer.

On Saturday, December 14, a week-long program ended with a march led by Hon. Frederica Tuita-Filipe and supporters including school brass bands. A program called “shave it or save it” was held at Vuna Wharf that shaved seven heads with each participant raising $1,000 or more.

Tonga Communications Corporation donated $10,000 and five of its staff volunteered to support cancer awareness by shaving their hair off. ‘Amelia Kami, Tae's younger sister raised over $10,000 for her participation alone. A total of more than TOP$25,000 was raised.

Taholo Kami, Tae’s father said the money would be donated to the children's ward at Vaiola hospital not only for the cancer patients but also for children with life threatening conditions.

“The vision is the Pacific and eventually to the outer islands to help with similar health conditions,” he said.

Fundraising programs held earlier in the week included an art initiative in collaboration with On the Spot team on December 9 at Tungi Colonnade that included fundraising activities of selling local arts and crafts and food.