The Patty project

Dear Grandson,

I eagerly await the day when you reach an age where I can share stories with you about the incredible woman in this photo holding you in her arms.

Most likely, you will affectionately know her as Mama Lina, just like many other children do.

You will hear numerous tales about her, some of which I will personally share, while others may come from those who have witnessed her remarkable work or have been saved by her.

Mama Lina has tirelessly dedicated herself to changing child protection and Domestic Violence laws in Samoa.

Her efforts aim to ensure the safety of children in their homes, schools, churches, and villages and quite similarly for women in their homes and villages too.

Mama Lina has shown tremendous compassion and provided solace to many children as young as you are in this photo, who have experienced neglect and horrifying abuse.

She has embraced them, nurtured them, protected them, and fought for the justice they deserve.

I am truly fortunate to call her my friend and mentor. We share moments of laughter, frustration and at times we have also shed tears together.

Although I do not speak Samoan, Lina often converses with me in her language – most times she’ll start a conversation not even realising that she’s speaking to me in Samoan and having known her for some time, I have learned not to interrupt her but instead I patiently let her finish speaking before responding with the few words I can speak in Samoan (which at times may not make any sense). This often leads to laughter and gentle reminders for me to learn more of the language.

Lina often tells me that I talk too much, but always responds promptly and thoroughly to my many questions because she knows that if she doesn’t, I won’t stop asking questions or talking.

On the night this photo was taken, your mummy shared something with Lina about her own journey during her first pregnancy and becoming a mummy to you.

She expressed the maturity she gained throughout the nine months of carrying you and how her volunteer work with SVSG (Samoa Victim Support Group) has impacted her life and grown her.

In particular, she shared her experiences at the SVSG shelters with girls younger than her who were pregnant due to incestuous rape.

Lina interacts and spends time with people from all over the world. The stories we share, the memories we recount, and the time we spend together continue to shape me.

As you grow older, it will become unmistakably clear how much influence and value she holds in both my professional and personal life.

I consider myself eternally blessed to have met this remarkable woman who has transformed lives, advocated for women and children, saved lives, and brought about positive so much positive change.

I am delighted that you, too, will have the opportunity to know her as you grow.

I eagerly await the day when you’re old enough where we may explore the photos and memories together, sharing moments of laughter, tears, and countless stories of hope and freedom.

Furthermore, dear Grandson, I look forward to spending more time with you in beautiful Samoa and I hope as you grow that you understand that you, too, hold a special place in this world, and you have the power to make a difference and positively impact the lives of others.

With love,

Your Nanna Patty.