Life is tough for 47-year-old Taulupo’o Lolo who relies on selling coconuts to make ends meet in order to look after his family.

The heavy rain in recent days is adding to their misery with constant leakages, as their corrugated iron-roof house supported by old wooden posts, continues to be put to the test by the bad weather.

“Recently, we have been experiencing a lot of rainy days and that is a big concern because we do not have enough tarpaulins and plus the roof leaks,” Mr Lolo told the Samoa Observer.

“We are in need of help to build a better home for my children and it is worrying to know that my home is not a stable structure but Samoa has just entered into the cyclone season.

“I just hope and pray that Samoa will not be affected by any cyclones because we will not have a home if it does come.”

The family has access to water as well as a restroom but are hoping they can get a shower for bathing with the little that their father makes from selling coconuts only enough for food. 

“Our source of income is from the sales of coconuts. I try and collect as many coconuts around 600 a week which would fetch $200 but if not we will just survive on the fruits of our land,” Mr Lolo added.

“The money we get is to help pay off these bills and for food supplies.”

And while the threat of cyclones are real with the country entering the annual cyclone season from November to April in the new year, the father of four is also mourning the passing of his 12-year-old daughter a fortnight ago. 

His daughter died from a brain tumor after she was diagnosed in 2017, he said.

“She died peacefully in bed around 6pm on a Monday,” he told this newspaper.

“My beloved daughter had a brain tumor but was sent overseas for treatment in 2017. But came back and was well for a while, however, she started becoming ill again in 2018.

“She was taken back to the hospital but health officials said that there was no treatment. All they said was to bring her home and wait but she was attending school while waiting.”

Talking about her loss, he said losing a child is never easy for a parent. 

“Losing a child is never easy on a parent because the children are a gift from God.

“She will be forever missed for her loving heart who cared so much for her siblings, she was known to be quiet.”

Mr. Lolo added that his family is still trying to come to terms with her death and it has been tough for everyone.

His family’s property is next to the main road on the south west coast of Upolu Island and is more than 37 kilometers from the Cross Island Road and the Main South Coast Road.

If you are willing to help the family of Mr. Lolo please contact the number: 7229285.