Newfound freedom means a happier, healthier life
Malia Masalu is an inspiring young Tongan woman who has overcome many difficulties in life, including living with visual impairment and chronic kidney disease. After her mother sadly passed away several years ago, Malia has lived independently in South Auckland, with carer support from her Aunt.
Maria Masalu with her Lottery Grant funded vehicle.
It is essential for Malia to have haemodialysis treatments three times a week so a machine can clean her blood to keep her healthy, meaning access to reliable transport is vital. Without it, Malia has missed some of her medical appointments and many community activities. This has led to her feeling isolated and has affected her enjoyment of life.
Malia contacted Vaka Tautua for help and connected with Lolomanaia Filiai, Senior Coordinator for the organisation’s Disability Information Advisory Services. She outlined her disability and health needs, and expressed a desire to have access to her own transport.
Lolo gave Malia advice about available funding and encouraged her to apply for Lottery Individuals with Disability funding. These grants help people living with disabilities to have better access and be more connected to their communities.
With Lolo’s support, Malia gathered letters of support from various agencies, completed the application and waited for the outcome.
Malia said, “When Lolo contacted me with the great news that my application for funding had been accepted, it was like a dream come true. I felt like walking on the moon!”
With the funding going towards purchasing a car, Malia’s Aunt can now drive her wherever she needs to go. She is looking forward to enjoying life to the full with her newfound freedom.
Malia added, “Thank you Lolomanaia for the marvellous support you gave me. Thank you also to Vaka Tautua and the Lottery Grants Board. I do believe with all my heart that having my own transport will maximise my participation in community activities and help me finish my studies.”
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s Disability Information Advisory Services