Overcoming disability to be a thriving teen
Samoan mother Peiu Muavaa Seve reached out to Vaka Tautua seeking support for her daughter, Pepe Muavaa. Pepe, who is nineteen years old and lives in Favona, was born with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, a congenital condition that affects the development of the brain.
Peiu Muavaa Seve and her daughter Pepe
With Dandy-Walker Syndrome (DWS), part of the brain called the cerebellum which controls movement and balance does not develop as it should. As a result, children with DWS can face problems with their heart, vision, hearing, or limbs.
People with DWS can also be diagnosed with other conditions, and Pepe deals with having epilepsy, type 2 diabetes, and also anxiety. Mum Peiu currently works part time and often finds it difficult to fit in her work hours around Pepe’s need for care, as epileptic seizures can occur at any time.
Vaka Tautua Auckland’s newest Disability Coordinator – Sala Seduadua – worked with Peiu and Pepe to support the family through the process of applying for financial assistance from the Ministry of Social Development.
With Sala’s help, their application for a Lottery Individuals with Disabilities Grant was successful, and the family was thrilled to receive vouchers for clothing and other essential items, food, and petrol. This support has provided a lot of financial relief for the family, and taken a great weight off Peiu’s shoulders.
Pepe’s mental wellbeing has also improved – as a teenager she is enjoying wearing new outfits, and the petrol vouchers make it easier for the family to get out and about so Pepe can socialise with her peers.
Sala will continue to support Pepe with whatever assistance she needs to live the life she wants to lead. Although Sala only joined Vaka Tautua in September this year, she has already achieved great things by helping the Muavaa family and will no doubt help many others in the future.
Learn more about Vaka Tautua’s Tagata Sa’ilimalo Disability Services