The public donated around half a million dollars for her treatment and now her family wants her story to help other Pacific families dealing with the same heartache.
Tae was diagnosed with a rare cancer of the jaw, which meant costly specialized treatment in New Zealand back in 2006.
But the Tongan community took her brave battle to their hearts and over three years fundraised around half a million dollars.
“Even though my body is dying I feel so blessed in many other ways,” said Tae.
Her courage even brought the king of Tonga to tears and she won a medal of valor. In her short life, Tae learned to walk strong — rising above the pain of terminal cancer.
“I couldn’t ask for a more perfect family. When I couldn’t breathe they helped me through the night…that was painful we get through it together…I always have someone holding my hand,” said Tae.
Now her grieving parents want Tae’s story and the song she composed to help others.
“I hope it will be a catalyst for something like a walk strong foundation,” said Taholo Kami, her father. But first they will hold her funeral, a celebration of her life.
Tae Kami may have lost her battle for life, but she won the love and respect of a kingdom.
