Ele’s achievement, a dream come true for her mother

By Sarafina Sanerivi 05 April 2017, 12:00AM

The 4th of April will be remembered as one of the most unforgettable days in the life of Lesila Opeloge from the village of Vaoala. 

This is because it was the day where her dream became a reality. 

It happened right in front of her and she almost couldn’t believe it had happened. 

Lesila Opeloge is the proud mother of Samoa’s hero and Olympic medalist, Ele Opeloge. 

Ele’s mother fought to hold back tears of joy when speaking about yesterday’s celebration. 

“I am very happy and grateful,” said Lesila. 

“I never thought this day would come, but I give back all the glory to God for His blessings and love. I know He made this possible and we should give Him all the credit.”

“It is every mother’s dream to see her children grow to be happy and successful.” 

“We pray day and night for our children so they can achieve whatever their hearts desire in life. And today, I am just very happy.”

Although the whole family and country have been waiting for this moment for a long time, Lesila said she didn’t mind the long wait. 

“The only thing I was worried about, was that I might not live to see this day.”

“But to me, I always tell my children to wait for God’s timing. God always has a plan and we should trust his timing.”

Said Lesila, witnessing the medal presentation right in front of her eyes was a bonus for her. 

“I am just grateful to be here,” she said. 

“If they had the ceremony somewhere, for sure I wouldn’t be able to attend it. That’s why I am happy to be here.”

The humble mother of our heroine suddenly switched to a happy mood when asked to reflect on Ele’s journey to where she is today. 

“It wasn’t easy,” Lesila said. 

“I saw it all; the sleepless nights, the hardcore trainings and the sacrifices.” 

“All I could do was to encourage and push her and pray for her.”

“She has come a long way and I am proud of her to be honest.”

Moreover, Lesila said they didn’t think Ele would’ve achieved something like this. 

“I knew she was passionate about the sport, but I didn’t think she would win a medal from the Olympic Games.”

“But I am thrilled that God used my daughter and gave her the ability to win something great for not only my family, but also for Samoa.”

Lastly, Lesila used the opportunity to thank everyone who supported Ele all throughout her journey. 

“We wouldn’t have done it without all of you.” 

“We want to thank her coaches, trainers and everyone who believed and helped her.”

She made special mention of the Samoa Observer newspaper for raising funds for her daughter.

“Thank you very much for everything. May God bless each and every one of you.”

By Sarafina Sanerivi 05 April 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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