Vakaloloma Sugu experienced a different pregnancy with her third child three years ago compared to her previous ones. After giving birth to her son, Elijah Moraiah Raivalita, doctors confirmed her suspicions about her health issues.
“I had lumps all over my body, and my pregnant belly was heavier than expected,” she shared. “I felt much weaker during this pregnancy.” Despite her concerns, medical staff initially assured her everything was normal during their checkups.
When it came time for Elijah’s delivery, Ms. Sugu hoped for a smooth process, but she received alarming news. “The doctors informed me his heartbeat was abnormal, and they needed to perform an immediate C-section,” she said. Following the surgery, she was unable to see her son because he was quickly taken to another room.
Ms. Sugu recalled longing for her child as she watched other mothers reunited with their babies. After persistent inquiries, she learned that Elijah had a distended stomach and would be admitted to the NICU for further testing. “Seeing him with so many needles attached to his tiny body made me break down in tears,” she said.
Days later, the results came back confirming that Elijah had neuroblastoma, a diagnosis that filled the family with dread. “Hearing the word cancer shocked us. We immediately thought about the potential consequences,” she explained. The family was unaware of organizations like WOWS Kids that support families dealing with childhood cancer.
Ms. Sugu expressed gratitude to WOWS Kids Fiji, stating that the organization guided them from denial to acceptance during this challenging time. “They provided assistance with medication, transportation, and emotional support,” she said.
Just a month after birth, Elijah began his first round of chemotherapy, followed by surgery to remove the tumor. Ms. Sugu recalled praying fervently before the procedure, asking for divine intervention. Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors delivered the astonishing news that Elijah’s tumor had vanished.
“It was a moment of overwhelming joy, and tears of gratitude filled our hearts,” Ms. Sugu said. “It illustrated the faithfulness of God to those who trust in Him. Our faith was tested and was rewarded immensely.”
Today, Elijah, now three years old, stands as one of the youngest cancer survivors in the country. “He is a joyful, vibrant child full of energy. It feels like a blessing that he has overcome this challenge,” Ms. Sugu added, noting the family’s protectiveness over him post-diagnosis.
She emphasized the importance of early detection and urged other parents to seek immediate medical help if their child shows any signs of illness. “If your child is unwell, take them to the hospital; don’t keep them home. Ensure they receive the necessary medical attention.”