Samoa News has recently asked for an update on Leukemia Warrior, Sharring Fa'amalo Fanene Niusulu,  and we received a photo taken just this past week, when Sharring was visited by her cousin, recent NVTHS graduate Vatau Fanene, who put together a fundraiser for Sharring here in the territory which she called “Vatau's Hope Drive”.

Sharring was diagnosed with Leukemia, a cancer of the blood affecting the bone marrow, two years ago.

The photo was taken in Waipahu, Hawaii during an afternoon of family time, board games and catching up.

According to her father, Banner Fanene, Sharring continues to receive monthly outpatient chemo and testing as necessary and takes her meds faithfully. Last week she had a bone marrow biopsy, and the results indicate that she may require more aggressive treatment.  She also had a pic insertion into her chest, as intravenous via her arms has become difficult.

“She is in positive spirits” said her father, “and we are grateful for all of the time she is with us and pray that she has many years ahead with us.”

He explained that her medical insurance expired with her former employer, but fortunately Sharring's husband's military status has been upgraded, so she is now receiving treatment at Tripler Army Medical Center.

Younger brother Elefasa, also pictured here, is a great help as Sharring's full-time caregiver, so that husband Jona can focus on his Army career, said her father.

Regarding a bone marrow match, Banner said,“We still do not have a match for Sharring, but as a service to the Polynesian community worldwide —and hoping for a possible match for Sharring— Caring for Sharring hopes to conduct future bone marrow drives in Samoa. 

He noted that while the fundraising has slowed, there are things in the works for the Caring for Sharring campaign, such as incorporating into a 501c3 status for tax purposes