13-year-old Prasad returns home after life changing eye surgery in India

13-year-old Giya Geetanglie Prasad has returned home to Fiji with renewed hope after successfully undergoing life changing eye surgery in India made possible through a $5,000 donation from Kontiki Finance.Prasad’s story first touched the hearts of many after the media published an appeal last year highlighting her urgent need for overseas medical treatment.

Her mother, Evlin Ashika Devi, had been seeking financial support to help her daughter undergo specialised surgery that was not available in Fiji.

Responding to the appeal, Kontiki Finance stepped forward with the full $5,000 needed to help cover 

Prasad’s travel and medical expenses.

The support allowed the family to travel to India where Prasad successfully underwent amniotic membrane grafting surgery to treat her worsening eye condition.

Prasad had been struggling with the painful condition since she was six years old.

What began as swollen eyes and redness gradually worsened over the years, causing persistent itchiness, pain, and severe discomfort that eventually made it difficult for her to even open her eyes.

Despite seeking help from several doctors in Fiji, the family was told that the specialised surgery required for her condition could not be performed locally.

For Prasad and her family, the journey to India was more than just a medical trip — it was a journey of hope.

Now back home in Fiji, Prasad is already showing signs of improvement.

Her family says she is feeling significantly better than before and is regaining comfort and confidence after the successful procedure.

During a recent follow-up visit, Kontiki Finance Group HR Manager Leeanne Dalton met with Giya and her family to hear about her recovery and see her progress firsthand.

Dalton says seeing Giya return home safely and in better health reinforces the importance of supporting families during difficult moments.

She says helping Giya was part of the company’s broader commitment to giving back to the community through meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Giya’s mother expresses heartfelt gratitude to the company and the many individuals who supported them during the difficult journey.

However, Giya’s medical journey is not over yet.

Doctors have advised that she will need to return for another procedure in September to further improve her eye condition.

As preparations begin for the next stage of treatment, the family will once again be seeking public support to assist with fundraising efforts.

While challenges still lie ahead, Prasad’s story stands as a powerful reminder of courage, resilience, and the impact of community support in transforming lives.