It has not been an easy road for Rotorua's Kearwan Satringkoe who is now an official Kiwi.
Although you may have thought otherwise when she took the stage sporting a big smile and thanking everyone for their support during the Rotorua Citizenship Ceremony yesterday at the Rotorua District Council.
But the Thailand-born Kiwi has battled serious illness during her time living in Rotorua.
Her friends and husband said she pulled together a lot of strength and courage to attend the ceremony yesterday.
"I nearly cried, I am very happy," she said. "My friends, husband and [English] teacher are here to support me."