What has whānau taught you?

William | Tāmaki Makaurau

William (Tonga), was born with cerebral palsy. He spoke to us about how his family, and especially his brother who now lives in Australia, have helped him be brave.

“My life is hard, and my disability has many struggles and challenges every day, but they helped me to just be myself. Often when I get down with my anxiety and disability grief, my family and cousins lift me up by checking in, hanging out, going out, and talking. I’m extremely thankful for them.

To me, I am so blessed to be a big brother. My little brother and I have a weird bond, but we are close. Even though we fight, I’m thankful for him. I love him and miss him.

It’s hard not having him here, but I’m always grateful for our bond. We were close, and it’s hard not being together, but I’m happy for him. He is the only brother I have.”