I've tried sharing this video & story overseas, but only Kiwi's will ever understand the sheer level of honour it is to have a haka performed specifically for you.
+Kauwhaka I think you underestimate us Aussies in the importance of the Haka. This video did make it overseas and onto our news and although we fight black and blue with you on the sporting field we feel it just as much when one of your comrades is down because we are neighbours who support and protect each other when we can and understand each other's cultural traditions.
+Kauwhaka Us foreigners understand just fine. I started bawling my eyes out when the haka started. Greetings and best wishes to Jake from Edinburgh, Scotland.
That 18 year old young man has more moral strength than I have seen in many people three times his age. what a truly fantastic speech, it was gallant, great, gracious, and greatfull. What a gorgeous person inside and out!
Alice Tango It wasn't put in to the media, they posted it on their school's RU-vid page then it was picked up by the media. (I'm sure you know that though) :)
Wow, I haven't cried this hard in a while. That was incredibly moving for someone so young. Even though his life is probably going to end, at least he seems to have enjoyed it to the fullest and had an impact on a lot of people.
I am 52 years old and I want to grow up to be this young man. I am sure the Kiwis are incredibly proud of him ( not to mention his mum and dad of course )
What an incredible, inspiring and strong young man. He spoke so well and so respectfully. CHCH Boys High looks like an amazing school. Jake is an excellent leader. Good luck Jake. Much love to you and your family.
Jake you're an inspiring human, and you've reached not only the people of cbhs but the entire nation, so much respect. All the best for you and your family. If anyone can get through what you're going through, it looks like you can.
Why do bad things have to happen to such good people? I pray that you will be able to overcome this. Like you beautifully said, 'be gallant, be great, be gracious', but I know without a doubt from only listening to you for 20 minutes that you are already all these things ad so much more. You're a real gentleman and the world needs you and I know that this is something you will beat. Stay strong, mate. Lots of love and prayers from your neighbour, Australia.
YOU'RE SO HANDSOME! Wow Bravo Jake what a truly inspirational speech. The strength and power you gave in delivering that speech is absolutely exceptional, considering how sick you could have felt during it. Thank you for allowing this to be shared world wide, not only is your speech inspirational it's also highly emotional as well. We were a sobbing mess the whole way through your powerful speech peppered with humor. You sure make a lot more sense than any politician!!!. Keep driving forward Jake, We're so sorry you have to go through this challenging road but we truly admire your courage and strength to fight this disease. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all the way. Sending you so much love and hugs. xoxo
From an Australian, I'm wishing you all the best Jake. Your strength is admirable. You have well and truly instilled a legacy among not only your peers and your school, but for all of us. Keep fighting.
Blown away by this young man. It's very early in the morning here in France and my sons are all safe, asleep and by God's grace, healthy. They'll be watching this video tomorrow to see a remarkable young man who is everything that I want my sons to be...Jake Bailey, I do not know you but I admire you and what you stand for and represent and there are three small boys here who will get to see and digest the words of a remarkable young man who is a credit to his school, his parents and himself.
Hi from the uk, all the very best to you jake, i was diagnosed with burkitts back in 2009, early this year my 5 years of remission and check ups came to an end, youre gonna get there too matey. There are few journeys like this one, but youre gonna Do it. Big up for team jake too, all of your inputs mean so much when youre in that hospital bed. Ps. Methatrexate doesnt suck, its One of your five a day. ; ).
+Kiwi Marie Well stated Kiwi Marie....... it is Brave young people like this (so wise beyond their years) that give us ALL, hope not only in dealing with serious medical issues, but in dealing with Life in general. Wishing Jake much Aroha for a full recovery. x
+Jobrimar82 Nice words my friend and so great to hear such support from the other side of the world. Obviously you have been there and done that.......so i know Jake will take a lot of inspiration from your example. Much Aroha (Love & Respect) again for your kind words...................... Big Jim (New Zealand).
You are an amazing young man....and to see how your fellow students honour you was the most touching thing I have seen in years....anyone that watch this will be touched in some way...I wish you well
I'm from Jamaica and I'm currently studying Journalism. My lecturer was so inspired by your presentation style, your command of the English language as well as your speech writing that she shared it will all her classes. I must say you have connected with all who has seen your video and we wish you all the best with everything. Much Love
And I'm sure the lecturer in question was also moved first and foremost by the young man's speech. Just to be pernickety, sorry, but should that be "presentational style", or would it have been better to write "style of presentation"?
+Amoi Spence Can I just say it was from his heart...he did not care about presentation style, how well he spoke!!!! etc etc. Jake was jake for his school and his mate's to say good bye or I will fight this...Kia Kaha (be strong)
I am from Saudi Arabia and it's my first time seeing the haka and I swear I cried harder bcus I felt the dance implied pride, strength, and respect. I got it and I am international and I appreciate the video upload. I cried throughout the speech and prayed for jake. I lost my young brother due to cancer when he graduated college. It was tough horrible times for my family and I.
"There is not effort without error." Failure means at least your trying, doing something, trying to achieve something, instead of just sitting around waiting for success or accepting the status quo. Brilliant Speech! I hope and wish you a complete recovery. You have inspired so many around the globe. Who can boast that at your age (except for maybe Malala) ? You are brave and intelligent, a lasting combination. May you go forth and accomplish great things with dust and sweat on your brow. Amen. Love from the U.S.
Awesome speech Jake, your are an inspiration to all your peers. May your fight be a long and successful one. My thoughts and prayers are winging there way too you from the UK xxx
What an amazing young man. The fact that he had a standing ovation, that they performed a haka for him, that they sang the school song for him, all speak of the effect he had on them. I hope he lives. We need more like him. Amazing speech for one so young.
Another voice from the UK - I was diagnosed with Burkitts in May 2014 at the age of 28. At the point I was hospitalized my tumour covered half of my pelvis. I went through 4 months of intensive chemotherapy (R-CODOX M/IVAC) and finally discharged at the end of August 2014. I've been clear for a year now and my life is all but back to normal as if nothing ever happened. Burkitts grows aggressively but also responds to treatment aggressively and shrinks rapidly. The treatment isn't always easy but the improvements they've made to both the treatment and measures to stop recurrance is incredible. It's a road you're going to need your friends and family for, but it's a road thats been travelled and survived. As the other poster from the UK mentioned, Methotrexate isn't that bad. Just follow the doctors advice and keep up with the mouthwash! It will make the world of difference. I don't know if this will reach Jake - but if he does want to talk with someone who knows what he's facing, please get in contact and I will be more than happy to help as best I can. Kyle
+Jobrimar82 Thanks! Glad to see your success story as well. I'm down to 3 monthly check ups - thankfully all have been good so far! Short of a small kidney scare. All the best to you to, hope your journey continues cancer free :)
Congrats KylieG454 on your recovery. You can send messages to Jake via Christchurch Boys High School. Their email is on their website and they're forwarding messages to him
Jake's speech reached Belgium today. We're thinking about you. We hope you are allowed to conquer your illness and enrich many more lives than you have done already!
It's just so sad to think how many amazing people are out there who want to make such a big difference in this world and the something bad a tragic hits their way. We need more people like him on this earth. We really do. He has such a warm heart.
Hi Jake from an old boy in San Francisco, what a powerful speech!. I wish you a speedy recovery from the illness and thank you for showing what magnificent young men Boys High continues to turn out. My two nephews are behind you at school and were both in awe of your bravery, thanks so much for setting an amazing standard for the boys to aspire to.
+J_D0g Wiscr4ck Actually it's not terminal. When diagnosed, he was told he only had weeks if left untreated (a week before this speech was made). His prognosis is looking good.
Jake's speech reached Nigeria today, it had me in tears. This particular line touched me a lot: "Let others lead small lives but not you. Let others argue over small matters but not you. Let others cry over small hurts but not you. Let others live the future in someone else's hands but not you...."
oh shit - when he was wheeled off - that look - CRY MUCH??? THAT SPEECH - perfect! Tonnes of aroha to you and your whanau, keep the fight up - the world wouldn't be the same without someone like you!
Great speech from a great man, hope this guy gets the treatment and beats cancer. He deserves a second chance and proved that with his powerful speech!
What an extraordinary young man, his spirit cannot be contained and is touching every person on the planet! The most inspirational speech I have ever heard! I wish you well on your journey Jake! Proud of you! Best wishes from Scotland!
I am in awe of this young man. No, scratch that. I am in awe of this man, for he has wisdom, and maturity well beyond his years. You'd have to have a heart of stone to not be moved by his extraordinary, inspiring words. He brought to mind the closing lines of Kipling's poem "If." "If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And-which is more-you’ll be a Man, my son!" Godspeed, Jake Bailey.
Such a great example of a modest and intelligent young gentleman. I hope very much that he will get to be around to see others put his advice into action. The world needs more people like him.
What an outstanding display of maturity and inspiration .Is it any wonder such a fine young man was honoured with the role of Senior Monitor. Jake if it means anything to you, you are in my prayers. ( from Australia)Christchurch Boy's High thank you so very much for uploading this video.
Jake, if you were my son i would be an incredibly proud father of a young son so strong, brave and sensitive. Your battle for life is now the battle of thousands of people around the world now know your story . You fight and not give up, you must not contemplated any other possibility than complete victory . I will pray for you . I love you. From Italy :)
"Here's the thing: None of us get out of life alive so be gallant, be great, be gracious, be grateful for the opportunities you have." Words to live by, Jake, and that's what you're going to do. I will hold you close in my heart as you fight and win this battle. Courage! "You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor." Aristotle
What a great speech! Was wishing the haka was more visible, then realized that watching Jake receive the respect was just as inspiring. Awesome all over! Blessings from Virginia!
Jake I AM PRAYING for you. We need you for Prime Minister. Your words are for this generation to hear. Tell yourself everyday that you must live, Sometimes it takes a mountain to see how strong you really are. You Jake are a lion!!! God Bless you and heal you!
I have re-played Jake's speech MANY times over and over just listening to his powerful message and thoughts and, I would like to say that, with full respect to everyone else in that auditorium NO ONE would have been able to deliver that speech and have the same effect as what Jake did . THAT speech was meant to be delivered by him . Once again Jake, best wishes for a speedy recovery
What an amazing speech by an amazing young man. Passionate, heroic, and powerful. I wish him the best of luck in his fight to beat cancer. I hope his determine spirit will inspire others as it has me.
This is an inspirational speech by a young man facing some really tough times. So it has double the importance. I hope that Jake has a complete and speedy recovery. He has so much to live for.
Jake and Christchurch Boys, thank-you for uploading this. I've just finished Year 12 across the ditch in Australia, and all of Jake's sentiments resonate so profoundly. My heart and hopes are with you Jake, as well as your school community; your powerful yet eloquent words, and the respectful haka are truly awe-inspiring. As Charles Bukowski once said: "What matters most is how well you walk through the fire". Keep on walking Jake, and let your moral strength drive you forward and through this. Love and light x
Absolutely amazing! As being a Year 12 myself this year, I know of the strength and courage this boy would've had to go through. Such an inspiring speech which really puts things into perspective when you think you're end of year exams will the be all and end all of you're life. I know a lot of people who could learn from you Jake. To be so eloquent yet handsome at a young age is truly a gift from God and it's shame I couldn't of meet you sooner. Even through a 10 minute speech I've taken so much away which I will cherish forever. Best wishes for the future, and though time may be short, your influence will last a lifetime.
What a wonderful intelligent and grounded young man. Clearly respected and admired by all his peers. Fight hard Jake, so many are behind you. Be the warrior your friends admire and respect. From a neighbour across the ditch
What a beautiful person. This speech has touched the lives of so many people around the world. I'm just sorry it was given under such painful circumstances. Thank you to whoever filmed this - but most of all thank you Jake Bailey. These are words that will stick with me for a long time, an outlook on life such as this is admirable and your positive attitude is truly remarkable. I wish you all the best and all the joys life has to offer. xx
Hi Jake, Thank you for your powerful and very moving speech. I was very good friends with your beloved uncle Ross and I know like all your family that there is enormous strength being sent to you and you have the same genes as Ross so I have every confidence and belief that this fight will be won and you will go on to do great things in your life too. Sending you every positive thought and wish from Australia
What an absolutely moving speech Jake. I wish you all the best and a full recovery. You are a young man who needs to continue making a difference in this world. I look forward to seeing more of you either on TV or in print but please do stay out of prison ;) Healthy wishes sent from Idaho, USA
How can this speech, by a truly inspirational human being get 6 "dislikes". It really does beggar belief!? I feel moved and heartened by the wisdom of words in one young enough to be my grandchild. God bless you, Jake. May there always be light to illuminate your path!
Mr. Bailey, you stand on the verge of a journey no young man your age should have to make. The speech you gave was moving, eloquent and heartfelt. You show wisdom beyond your years. You can obviously see and cherish the love and support of the school all around you. I hope you draw strength and comfort from that as you enter the arena for your battle. Good Luck and Godspeed.
You have moved people worlds apart from you Jake. Some of us needed to be shown the way and some of us needed to be reminded of the way. You have made a deep impact on my life with your courage, bravery, and sheer truth about life. I've learned more from you in 18 minutes than I have in my 31 years wandering about. For that, I am forever grateful.
oh my god! What a lovely, lovely man! I can barely type this as I cannot see the screen for tears. This should be shown to all schools. He is an inspiration, showing values that ALL could aspire to. If I stand on the shoulders of giants, I don't think I could reach his. But he makes you feel like trying. It is an honour to have watched this (and the Haka), THANK YOU!
This made news in australia. A great message for the world. It is awesome to see a brave young man with such wise words that you would expect from someone 4 times his age. Thankyou and God Bless
Jake Bailey you are an inspiration. Your parents have done an amazing job raising you into the man you are..... I will show your speech to my son who is graduating this year. All the very best with the cancer and I will pray for you as the world needs more men like YOU.
Jake, just to let you know,I went to church again yesterday and said a quiet prayer for you ( and your family) and that you will be given continued strength and guidance during your illness . And that your recovery will be one that will led by moral strength. You are an amazing person my friend,I had not heard of you until 12 days ago, now sometimes I wish I could have known you sooner. Your speech has changed the way I see and think about Many things
i just want to say to Jake, well done fella,well done ,you reduced me to a blubbering wreck after watching your speech .....I know at your age young man to be facing this seems so wrong ,but after watching you give the speech of your life to your friends and classmates and teachers ,i think you have the strength and the courage and the tenacity to fight this ...i will keep my fingers crossed and you and your family will be in my prayers every night ....if you can ,please keep us informed as to how you are doing ,if not just get better Jake .....by the way on a lighter note ,do you know you have made the National Papers here in the UK ....you my friend are a world wide phenomenon....now FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
Jake Bailey's parents must wonder what sort of miracle they wrought to parent such a fine young man. Incredible, really. May Jake's recovery come quickly.
Dear Jake, You are an inspiration, and I have forwarded your speech to the teenagers in my extended family and to their schoolmasters. Hopefully you will not die and will live to contribute even more. The school and your family have reason to be so proud. I live far away in Palm Springs, CA, USA, I am in my late 70's and can honestly say you are one of the best persons to cross my life path. God Bless You and if He can spare you to live on earth longer, please keep in touch with the thousands who love you. If we follow your advice we will meet again in a better place.
+Pat Wilhite what wonderful words....reading it really touched me...For me from New Zealand where Jake is from made me so proud...first for Jake coming from NZ, great parents or parent he has. And he is a survivor!!!! Kia Kaha (be strong)
Jake you are a brilliant young man and that speech was so inspiring . Iam praying you have a full recovery and a long life we need more young men like you
An amazing and inspirational young man. I hope you come through this difficult period in your life stronger than ever before. My thoughts as i am sure a lot of others, are with you.
an exceptional, inspirational speech - incredibly astute and wise. Huge respect for your "spin" on moral strength - you have it in spades Jake. Stay strong and live on - this world needs you!!!
This speech is the epitome of courage. My goodness I haven't cried over a speech in a long, long, long time. Congratulations mate, from across the ditch. :)
What an awesome example of leadership, integrity and strength you are Jake - much respect to you. Your speech was beautiful..made me cry. All the best to you and your family x
What a brave and fine young man! Such a good speech, much better than some politicians we have seen on this side of Tasman! Pray for your good health, Amitabha!
Jake, thank you for such an inspiring speech. You are the embodiment of moral strength. As a role model for others, regardless of age, you are exemplary. All the very best wishes to you.
The beauty and truth of his words will shape his own generation, those above and those that will follow. His journey how ever long or short will be one of greatness for that school.
I love every single word on your speech Jake, you have doing well ..! Everyone in that place Love you! I hope the best God Bless you from Honduras C.A.
Hi Jake. Thank you for your words of wisdom. You words touched me deeply and I find myself thinking differently today...in a good way and for that I thank you. Please know you're in my prayers to overcome this terrible sickness. Christchurch Boys High School, you are doing quite a remarkable job raising fine young men in your school. You are an example to the world as to how children should be raised. Please let us know how Jake is doing, will you? Blessings to all.
Truly admirable. Words of wisdom, loyalty and pride. I'm not a fan of old institutional education or groups that appear to support "the old boys network" (especially as a woman) but I'd vote for you now and twice on Sundays. If only our current leaders were half the man you have so eloquently become... You did your parents well. I so hope you gain strength and travel well through this cancer journey and with the love and support from all those shoulders you stood upon. Kia kaha young man. Kia kaha.
