By Teariki Sword

I’m a 32-year-old father of two daughters. My name is Teariki, but most of my family and friends call me “Keeks.” I was born in Rarotonga and have Cook Island, Fijian, and European heritage. I live in Auckland, where I work as an Athletic Performance Coach with rugby teams, boxing, and basketball athletes.

In January 2024, while running a rugby league conditioning session with players during the off-season, I suddenly experienced a focal seizure. My right arm and face went numb, and I began slurring and stuttering my words — stroke-like symptoms that sent me straight to hospital. Scans revealed a mass in the left temporal/parietal part of my brain.

Although the MRI suggested a low-grade tumour, surgery later confirmed it was a high-grade astrocytoma (IDH Mutant). I went through the standard treatment plan of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The side effects I struggled with most were extreme fatigue, brain fog, and speech difficulties, though I was fortunate to avoid much nausea and sickness.

Brain Tumour Support NZ became an incredible support system for me during this time — connecting me with others on similar journeys and sharing stories of triumph and hope. I’m also deeply grateful to the speech therapist at Auckland Hospital who helped me regain my confidence, and to my oncology nurse who guided me through the early stages of treatment. Most importantly, my family and friends carried me through. They supported me, my partner, and our young daughters during one of the hardest times of our lives, helping us find strength together as I slowly began returning to work and adjusting to a “new normal.”

My diagnosis has shown me just how fragile life is — and how important it is to focus on what truly matters. Having two young daughters has made this journey especially poignant. It’s been a huge challenge, but also a lesson: every day is not guaranteed. I’ve learned to prioritise my family’s peace and energy above all else.

Returning to work has been difficult with the lingering brain fog and fatigue, but I’m learning to work with these challenges rather than fight against them.

Despite my diagnosis, I remain hopeful and determined. I plan to continue building my Athletic Performance business, pursue future studies, and, most importantly, be a present and active father and loving partner. I also want to support others who may find themselves walking the same path I’ve been on. Life may look different now, but it is still full of purpose, love, and hope.