🌿 Maia the Kaitiaki – Maia Lives with Epilepsy When Maia suddenly collapses during rugby practice, his world changes forever. Diagnosed with epilepsy, Maia begins a difficult journey filled with fear, confusion, and uncertainty. As he withdraws from his friends and the life he once knew, Nanny Rakai reminds him that even in the darkest moments, guardians are never far away. Guided by the wisdom of his Nanny and the mystical taniwha brothers Whare and Ponga, Maia learns that true strength comes from leaning on whānau, embracing hope, and finding light within himself. Through powerful messages of resilience, courage, and aroha, Maia slowly begins his healing journey and discovers that his condition does not define who he is. Grounded in Te Ao Māori and the values of kaitiakitanga, this heartfelt story helps tamariki and whānau navigate conversations around epilepsy, wellbeing, identity, and support. Maia Lives with Epilepsy is an inspiring story of overcoming adversity and learning that even our biggest challenges can help shape us into guardians for others.
