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Peter Akich - Source: ONE News -
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A lifeguard from south Auckland is one of the community's unsung heroes featuring in a ONE News series.
Peter Akich, a lifeguard at the Manurewa pool, hasn't let the scars of a previous life stop him doing what he loves.
Akich has one arm less than most of us and may not have the best technique in the world, but it earns him a living and may one day save a life.
Akich was born in Sudan and when he was about 14 he became a soldier in the civil war, lasting seven years before he was shot. Doctors saved his life but not his arm.
He lived in a refugee camp in Kenya before coming to New Zealand. As a refugee he had little education but he did know how to swim and he wasn't afraid to ask for a job.
"I am disabled...can you accept me to join the course and they said it doesn't matter, if you know and I said I know," says Akich who thinks he is about 39.
He has never had a birthday and doesn't know when he was born...he can only guess.
He misses his family, especially his mum who he hasn't seen in a long time.
"Yeah, I miss her because you know before she was young and when you see the photo and the photo looks like she is old," he says.
Akich stands out poolside whether he likes it or not and Kane Tapurau from the Manurewa Aquatic Centre says they get children coming up to them asking if Akich can swim with only one arm.
His work mates say it doesn't take long for people to change their mind about him.
Akich has plans to visit his family in the Sudan but his future lies in New Zealand.
"I hope to settle my situation, stay, look for the wife, have a kid and enjoy the life like the Kiwi."
Do you know someone who is a "good sort" that ONE News should talk to? Click here to nominate them
Add a Comment:
Post new commentRuralWomenNZ said on 2011-06-17 @ 09:09 NZDT: Report abusive post
Hey! We thought you might be interested in the aftersocks projects that will raise money for the Chch Mayoral Fund. The idea came from two Cantabrian sisters called Justine and Jo Ottey. Check out the website www.aftersocks.co.nz from the 20th June or www.facebook.com/aftersocks.
Jazz1 said on 2010-05-24 @ 14:59 NZDT: Report abusive post
Love this segment! What great people!
margi21 said on 2010-04-07 @ 21:36 NZDT: Report abusive post
I have this guys heart i would be dead if it wasent for him , thanks barry !
Jankeal said on 2009-12-25 @ 23:57 NZDT: Report abusive post
Tim is my father and i'd just like to say that i'm proud of what he does bringing happiness to others lives and yet still finds time to talk and see his grandchildren. For a man who's had it rough the last 2-3 years it hasn't slowed him down and he still has time for everyone. Good on you dad/Pop!
TheHoltens said on 2009-12-21 @ 11:34 NZDT: Report abusive post
The piece about Mark Granthams brought tears to my eyes. What an inspirational young man. Has made me look at myself and realise what little I do for the wider community. Thanks Mark :)