13 Feb #Teiya Strong: February 7.2016
Words by Sarah Filush , and Photos by Frank”the Crank” Camacho
When you hear the word “fundraiser” one wouldn’t typically affiliate it as a day of celebration. However, Fokai Femme’s #teamTeiya fundraiser was one like never I’ve seen before! There were no tears or sob stories, no talks of sympathy or sulking. We were there for no other purpose than to gather together and celebrate the victory of a young true Fokai warrior, Teiya Camille Van Meter.
This 5 year old shaka throwing fighter is the true embodiment of the Fokai motto “Exhaust the Body, Proceed the Mind, Cultivate the Spirit” Teiya a long with the amazing support of her parents, Tara and BJ, fought 9 excruciating terrifying months battling brain cancer. Despite exhausting her body through numerous surgeries and treatments, this little rocker and her family proceeded to push forward defeating the odds and cultivated any ounce left in them to give thanks for every conquered obstacle. Thanks to the outpouring love and support from her family and Chamorros across the world, Teiya was able to give cancer the Shaka and ring the victory bell signifying her final completion of chemotherapy in November of 2015
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Fokai Femme’s #teamTeiya fundraiser was an appreciation gathering to celebrate the sacrifice and undying love of family, what I believe to be the true definition of Fokai Familia.
Clusters of family, friends, and strangers poured into the shop to purchase their #TeamTeiya Fokai shirts, throwing Teiya’s signature shaka as they pose for the paparazzi. Children hustled about the shop munching on cookies as parents drank coffee and mingled talking about Teiya’s amazing journey to recovery. Others lined up for autographs from local author Joan Awa who donated her limited edition children’s book “Nana and Jose’s Coconut Day” as a gift of appreciation to those who came out to support the cause.
Despite not being able to physically be there, witnessing the impact little Teiya had on loved ones and strangers a like was powerful and inspiring to say the least. Her story and electrifying smile has motivated all of us to approach life with a happy heart, to never give up hope, to fight the good fight, and to give life the shaka despite whatever curve balls come your way.
So shakas out to Teiya, her wonderful family, and the rest of you good vibes warriors! You are what makes this world a better place. Keep on keeping on!
Sarah Filush is Miss Guam Earth 2012,; A videographer and humanitarian–she is also one of the active leaders on Guam trying to combat our island’s most devastating coconut tree predator-the invasive Rhino Beetle