A grieving mother, Melesi Ratoto, is speaking out against illicit drugs following the loss of her son, Ratunaisa Noeh Bill Vatunaruku, who died at the age of 26 due to complications from excessive drug abuse. Ms. Ratoto laid her son to rest in Votualevu, Nadi, just over a week ago.
Determined to prevent others from facing the same tragedy, Ms. Ratoto is now advocating for drug awareness and trying to protect young people from the dangers of drug use. Medical professionals informed her that her son’s drug addiction severely damaged his internal organs, including his kidneys and liver.
“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 pleaded with emotion.
Reflecting on her son’s struggles, Ms. Ratoto shared that despite her love and guidance, he chose a destructive path. She revealed her fears and concerns, saying, “I often wondered what I did wrong that led him to criminal activities and drugs. No matter where he went, I never stopped praying for him, until the day he came home sick.”
She detailed the alarming changes in her son’s behavior due to drug use, such as episodes of disorientation and the need to involve police due to his actions.
“The moment he fell critically ill, I had to rush him to the hospital, but he was in dire condition and couldn’t even speak. Losing a son to drugs is an unimaginable pain,” she lamented. Through her sorrow, she hopes her story will resonate with youth contemplating drug use. “Please, before you get entangled, don’t take that path. Run away from places or friends that lead to death.”
At her son’s funeral, family members emphasized the importance of safeguarding children from the perils of drug use. Meanwhile, Sashi Kiran, the Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, revealed that eight wheelbarrow boys in Nadi had died from drug overdoses this year. She announced plans for consultations and training for these young men to aid in overcoming addiction and securing stable employment.
Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, chief medical advisor for the Ministry of Health, highlighted the harsh reality of substance abuse in Fiji. She noted the potential health risks posed by drugs and the complications arising from mixing substances. Dr. Cikamatana also expressed concern about the rising cases of HIV and other infectious diseases linked to drug use. She mentioned an anti-narcotics strategy focused on harm reduction to combat drug supply issues and support those affected by addiction.