Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
William Sangster is proof that living with a disability has not stopped the proud Tongan from achieving his goals. Born with Cerebral palsy and diagnosed at the age of 18 months, William has a strong support base provided by his family.
His mother Lonili gave up work to provide full time care for William. She spent so much time at his primary school they offered her a Teacher’s Aide role.
Lonili says,“ it was all based around William. It was a struggle but we made it.” Proud parents Karl and Lonili agree that the sacrifices have been worth it to see what their son has achieved to date.
Karl shares that their 24 year old son who was a former prefect from Marcellin College, graduated from AUT with a Bachelor of Communications and now works in the media industry.
“This year working for Attitude TV has been amazing because for those that know William, being non-verbal, sometimes it’s hard for him to communicate verbally.
But he communicates through social media platforms. It just goes to show that disability doesn’t have any barriers, having Cerebral palsy hasn’t stopped him from being who he is,” beams Karl.
Extended family members also play a big role in William’s life and while Karl (who works full-time) alongside Lonili who helps William in the mornings, the afternoons and outings are taken care of by his cousin Finau.
Finau explains their routine. “The majority of the things I do for him is based on social media, take his photos, look after him, take him to his meetings, make sure he’s good if he’s hungry, drop off some food, chill with him, get him changed if he’s going to a party or something, pick out his outfit, kind of like his stylists.”
William says, “Finau has helped me with my daily tasks, like making my bed and cleaning my room on the weekends. Making sure everything is organised properly and especially helping me with my hobbies like filming content and making sure I’m doing everything that is needed.”
The family all agree that William is very independent, there are some things he does need support with.
“I am able to dress myself in the morning some days, it’s after work at Attitude that I need help.
Finau comes over every day and we just chill, I think the important thing for me is just her company,’ adds William.
Finau acknowledges that the role of a support worker does have some challenges; but she says it helps to come from the same culture and even family. Finau says despite it all William is truly an inspiration to us all.
“I feel like it’s watching him grow, watching him become someone that you never thought he could…I am not only lucky to witness it but also be part of it.”
