A heartfelt thank you

Editor's note: The Tuiasosopo family, which is of Samoan heritage and is perhaps the Seattle area's first family of sports, sent a letter of thanks to those who helped after the tsunami that devastated the islands.

Dear Husky and Seahawk fans:

It was with heavy hearts and deep concern that we learned of the devastation in the wake of the tsunami that hit Samoa and American Samoa. We anxiously awaited phone calls and e-mails from family back home for nearly a day after the tsunami struck. Eventually, we were comforted as loved ones slowly sent word that they were safe.

However, others were not as fortunate. Family members sent updates about mass loss of life and leveling of villages. We were compelled to do as we have been taught for generations — lend a helping hand to those in need. We could not have imagined that our improvised family meetings and phone calls to friends around Seattle would have resulted in raising over $30,000 for families in Samoa, American Samoa and the South Pacific Rim.

We want to express a sincere and heartfelt "thank you" for the generosity you showed with your donations at the Huskies and Seahawks games. We were absolutely moved by your show of support, and your comments warmed our hearts.

We also want to express our deepest gratitude to athletic director Scott Woodward, coach Steve Sarkisian and the University of Washington athletic department; and to CEO Tod Leiweke, coach Jim Mora and the Seattle Seahawks. We could not have accomplished these fundraisers without their blessings and assistance.

An invaluable part of our team were the many volunteers. The Tatupus, Aleagas, Gabriels, Thompsons, Elisaras, Fanenes, Peles, Pulus, Falanikos, Toeainas, Patus and other fellow Samoan volunteers have a personal stake in the success of these fundraisers because all have family members personally affected.

We feel blessed to have played in front of the best fans right here in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Thank you for your generous contributions. May God richly bless you and our families in American Samoa and Samoa.

Faafetai tele... ia manuia ... alofa atu.

— The Tuiasosopo Family