A grieving mother, Melesi Ratoto, is urging others to steer clear of drugs after losing her 26-year-old son, Ratunaisa Noeh Bill Vatunaruku, to health complications linked to excessive drug abuse. Ratoto buried her son in Votualevu, Nadi last Wednesday and is now determined to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit substances to prevent others from suffering a similar fate.
Medical professionals informed Ms. Ratoto that her son’s extensive drug use severely damaged his kidneys and liver. With a heavy heart, she shared her experiences, cautioning others about the risks associated with drug use. “Before you find yourself trapped with no way out like my son, please flee from drugs and avoid the places or friends that lead to death,” she implored.
Having faced the challenges of raising her children alone after her husband’s death two years ago, Ms. Ratoto reflected on her struggles with her son’s choices. “Despite all the love and advice I gave him, he chose his own path,” she said, recalling times when his drug use led to alarming behavior and concerns for his well-being. Family members noted that he turned to needles to cope with his pain, leading to dangerous situations that required police intervention.
The emotional pain of losing her son was palpable as she recounted the harrowing experience of rushing him to the hospital when he fell critically ill. “I cried seeing my son like that. Losing a son to drugs is an unimaginable pain,” she lamented. She hopes her story will serve as a warning to young people about the potential consequences of drug use.
At the funeral, relatives emphasized the importance of raising awareness among parents and guardians to protect their children. In line with this, Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, revealed that eight wheelbarrow boys in Nadi had reportedly died from drug overdoses this year. The Minister indicated plans for consultations and training aimed at assisting those struggling with addiction and reintegrating them into society.
Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, the Ministry of Health’s chief medical advisor, highlighted the concerning reality of drug-related deaths in Fiji. While specific statistics on young deaths tied to substance abuse were not available, she warned of the risks posed by various drugs and their interactions within the body. Dr. Cikamatana noted the rising cases of HIV and other diseases associated with drug use, emphasizing the need for an anti-narcotics strategy focused on harm reduction.