Future rugby player still has hopes

By Aruna Lolani 14 July 2017, 12:00AM

Life does not always go the way we plan. 

The reality is, our dreams and aspirations may not always come true.

These are the thoughts of Mandella Fou, 24 years old of Nofoali’i.

“I dreamed of becoming one of the Manu Samoa rugby players of the future,” he said.

“Unfortunately things didn’t go the way I was planning. As you can see, it’s been seven years since I’ve been like this,” he said pointing to his leg. 

“I had a rugby injury and right now, it’s as if I had a stroke. 

“Sometimes though, I’ve been thinking when a dream dies inside, I won’t pay attention to it, or perhaps won’t admit there’s a problem.  

“I want to let it go. I pretend I don’t care because there are so many logical reasons why I should give up on this thing that was once so special - the thing that held a treasured place in my heart. Ever since I was in primary and college I’ve been dreaming to become the best rugby player in Samoa but I guess everything is just a dream.” 

Mandella hoped he would be given a chance to make his dream come true. 

“I’ve prayed and prayed to be able to get back on my feet soon,” he said. 

“I want this and I’ve always dreamed of it. Right now, I don’t work and I can’t do anything aside from accompany my dad to the plantation. 

The worst thing, he said, is being the eldest of the kids.

“Yes, that is one thing that I always think of.  I am the eldest of five kids and here I am, still can’t do anything to support my family. 

“I’m still hoping to recover and try my very best to become what I want to not only help my parents but to play a role as the eldest in the family.

“Tomorrow is my appointment at the hospital to see when I’m going to have my surgery. I was told the last time I had it checked that it is not good. 

“I’d thought I was going to be okay soon,” added Mandella. “I was feeling it and I just didn’t want to take any chances.” 

“To be honest I had worked hard ever since I was a kid to reach my goal but too bad I’ve still got a long way to go. 

Despite this, the youth remains hopeful and is grateful for his life.

“But all in all I am lucky to be alive.”

By Aruna Lolani 14 July 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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