Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — First Lady Dr. Lois Phillips Pula has proudly established a non-profit organization known as WAO (We Are One) Corporation of Volunteers, which aims to unite the community in support of those in need.

A central focus of WAO is to implement fundraising initiatives designed to cover the accommodation and meal expenses for patients and their families who must travel overseas for medical treatment. This significant initiative was publicly announced on the government’s talk-back show, broadcast on KVZK TV, where the First Lady discussed the dire need for financial assistance for those seeking healthcare far from home.

Currently, WAO is actively selling handcrafted ornaments as a means of raising funds to assist individuals and families in American Samoa who travel to Hawaii for necessary medical care.

This philanthropic initiative was inspired by the First Lady's poignant meeting with a young woman battling breast cancer. The woman had chosen to remain on the island for a tumor removal procedure, only to discover that the cancer had tragically spread to her other breast. She expressed her deep concerns about the financial burden of seeking further treatment in Hawaii, particularly the costs associated with lodging and daily meals.

During their initial conversation, the First Lady shared her knowledge about Medicaid and informed the woman that her travel costs could potentially be covered. However, when they met later, the First Lady inquired if she had received any assistance for her trip. The woman's heartbreaking reply was, "I’m not going”.

Taken aback, the First Lady pressed for the reason, and the woman explained that without a place to stay and insufficient funds for her time in Hawaii, she felt she had no choice. This revelation deeply saddened the First Lady, igniting her resolve to take action.

Following this encounter, the First Lady consulted with Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula, who encouraged her, stating, "Well, think about it. You know, you're a nurse. You'll figure something out." His words of encouragement catalyzed her efforts to find a solution.

She then reached out to her Executive Assistant, Daphne Fuimaono, and after brainstorming together, they conceived the idea of selling festive Christmas ornaments. This concept was inspired by similar initiatives in her hometown of Washington, D.C., where both the U.S. Congress and the White House traditionally produce and sell unique Christmas ornaments during the holiday season.

According to the First Lady, the locally crafted Christmas ornaments are made from materials readily available on the island, showcasing the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of American Samoa.

Each ornament features a beautifully designed image of the Governor’s residence, located on Mauga-o-Ali’i in Fagatogo, symbolizing local pride and community. The reverse side of the ornament contains a message which states: “Government house, built in 1903. It has served as a center of government on the island for much of the time since then. Government House was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1972. and was declared a national historic landmark in 1990.” 

The ornament will be packaged with an informative card that elaborates on the mission of WAO. This card will clearly outline their goals and provide insights into the individuals and communities that will benefit from these ornaments, highlighting the positive impact of your support.

Additionally, the First Lady expressed her gratitude to Billy Young, the owner of J-LenT’s, for his invaluable support in this endeavor, which underscores the spirit of collaboration within the community.

According to Ms. Fuimaono, the ornaments are being sold at the wharf, coinciding with the arrival of cruise ships, and plans are in place to distribute them across the island to maximize their reach and impact. This initiative not only aims to fund important medical travel but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity among the residents of American Samoa.