When Alisi Angel Ravouvou Verevinaka was just three years old, her mother faced a devastating diagnosis: cancer. The youngest of four siblings, Alisi experienced severe stomach pain and bloating, which her family initially believed was caused by something she had eaten. However, a visit to the Nausori Health Centre in 2017 revealed a more alarming issue.
Doctors suspected that her liver had fluid, prompting an immediate transfer to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva. For a stressful week, Alisi and her mother anxiously waited while doctors conducted tests, including a CT scan. Alisi’s mother, Alinda Alice Verevinaka, was eventually called into a room where she received life-altering news.
“Receiving the cancer diagnosis felt like a broken moment for me. As we all know, cancer is often fatal,” she recalls. “Watching my 3-year-old daughter fight was overwhelming, but I told myself to be strong for her. I focused on praying for her and concealed my own fears in front of her.”
Alisi was diagnosed with Wilms’ tumour, a rare type of kidney cancer, marking only the second such case seen in Fiji. Medical professionals moved swiftly, beginning chemotherapy as Alisi’s condition worsened. Over the next three months, she endured tough treatments while exhibiting remarkable strength.
Her family faced significant hardships. “It was difficult for the entire family, particularly since she is the youngest, and we were away from home for an extended period,” her mother shared. Alisi’s father, the family’s sole provider, struggled to meet financial demands.
In this challenging time, WOWS Kids Fiji charity emerged as a source of support. “We were short on funds, but with help from our family and being introduced to WOWS, we managed,” Alinda said. “They helped us with medical expenses, transportation, and weekly supplies during our hospital stay. Their support ensured we had everything we needed during this tough journey.”
In February 2018, Alisi underwent surgery to remove her right kidney and part of her liver. Although the surgery was a success, the road ahead remained challenging. Alisi needed to travel to Christchurch, New Zealand, for six weeks of radiation therapy to eliminate any lingering cancer cells.
Now, six years after her battle, Alisi is cancer-free and thriving, reflecting a child’s resilience and a mother’s unwavering love. Alisi has aspirations of becoming a flight attendant, a goal her parents wholeheartedly support. “We will do everything we can to fulfill her wishes,” her mother affirmed with determination.
Alisi’s story serves as a powerful reminder of a mother’s love, the vital role of community support, and the resilient human spirit. Her journey illustrates that even against overwhelming odds, hope and determination can result in extraordinary outcomes.