True love transcends all barriers, physical and emotional. The marriage of Tusiga Taofiga and Kahelelaninoema Maria Kwon is a living testimony of this.

The couple tied the knot early last week.

Tusiga was born with a physical disability that had him bound to a wheelchair. He had been judged by his disability all his life and not his ability. Not many know that Tusiga is an invaluable member of the government media team.

However, it was Kahelelaninoema who bore the brunt of the judgement from people when she started dating a man in a wheelchair.

For her, the man she loved was defined more than his physical disability.

“In 2017, my life took an unexpected turn when my aunt mentioned her close friend who wanted to meet me. I didn’t know him, nor had we ever seen each other before. That’s when Tusiga added me on Facebook, and I saw his profile picture for the first time,” said Kahelelaninoema.

“He was in a wheelchair, but that didn’t matter to me. I didn’t judge him for what others might see; I wanted to know the person he truly was.

We began talking, introducing ourselves, and getting to know each other. On 19 August 2017, we finally met in person. I was in my last year of college, focused on my studies, yet somehow, our connection felt natural and effortless.

“Just days later, Tusiga asked me out. He made the first move to find ways for us to see each other face-to-face, and I admired his determination and courage.”

Over the next seven years, the couple faced many challenges. People judged them and Kahelelaninoema was constantly questioned why she would choose someone in a wheelchair. They told her she would suffer and struggle to take care of him.

“But I didn’t love Tusiga for what he could or couldn’t do—I loved him for who he was,” said Kahelelaninoema.

“His protective nature, his kind heart, his sweet voice, and his warm smile won me over completely. Together, we found strength in God, fasting every Tuesday to entrust our relationship to Him. Despite the world’s doubts, our faith in God and each other carried us through.”

On June 28, 2023, just before Kahelelaninoema was about to move to the United States, Tusiga proposed to her in front of their parents. It was an emotional and unforgettable moment. In that instant, all the struggles they had endured felt worth it.

“Now, as I work in the U.S., my heart is full of gratitude. I thank God for bringing Tusiga into my life. Our dream is to build a life centred on faith, love, and family, letting God lead us every step of the way,” said Kahelelaninoema.

“This is not just my love story—it’s a story of faith, resilience, and choosing love despite the odds. Tusiga, you are my blessing, my partner, and my greatest gift from God. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”