A mother, whose daughter battled blood cancer and whose family had to move from Labasa to Suva for treatment, is calling for greater awareness, early detection and better support systems in Fiji.
While speaking on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, Alumita Seru shared her experience after her daughter Leilani was diagnosed with leukaemia or blood cancer at just three-years-old.
Seru says Leilani, now eight, was diagnosed in 2021 at Labasa Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, when restrictions made the situation even more difficult.
She says her daughter initially had a normal fever and bone pain, and they took her to hospital immediately, not realising these were signs and symptoms of cancer.
Seru says that after the diagnosis, they had to move to Suva for treatment at CWM Hospital, as no treatment was available at Labasa Hospital.
INSERT: Seru on challenges 26th Mar
Seru says the journey forced them to completely change their lives and focus entirely on their daughter’s treatment.
She revealed the emotional strain of watching a young child undergo chemotherapy, saying she felt helpless seeing her daughter in pain.
INSERT: Seru on emotional strain and long months 26th Mar
Seru highlighted the lack of awareness about childhood cancer, saying she did not know about the illness until her daughter was diagnosed.
She says looking back, there were warning signs, as Leilani would often get tired while playing, but she was not aware enough to recognise them as symptoms.
She says the experience forced her to learn about cancer while going through it.
Seru adds that the financial burden was also significant and emphasised the importance of support organisations such as WOWS Kids Fiji, saying they were their only source of assistance and support while Leilani was in hospital.
She confirms that Leilani has now completed chemotherapy and continues with regular check-ups, and has adapted to hospital visits.
Seru is encouraging other parents facing similar challenges to stay strong and seek support.
According to recent statistics from WOWS Kids Fiji, there are currently 70 children under 18 years of age living with cancer.
We believe that this number is what is on record and that the actual number is higher.
Meanwhile, more than $150,000 has been collected through the Communications Fiji Foundation Charity Walk, and people can continue to contribute to the cause to assist the children living with cancer.
Donations can be sent via:
Communications Fiji Foundation
WBC Account: 9800935794
You can also send your donation via the M-PAiSA or MyCash apps by selecting CFL in the vendor drop-down list.
