The Self Care Retreat Hub for women cancer survivors was inaugurated yesterday in Nabua, marking an important step in supporting these individuals. Mereane Vavataga, CEO of Self Care Retreat Fiji, emphasized the significance of the new facility.
“It’s an oasis where women cancer survivors can find relief when they feel overwhelmed by illness,” Ms. Vavataga explained. “This space offers them the chance to rest and share their experiences, discussing the challenges they encounter.”
Founded in 2021, the NGO aims to assist women cancer survivors in their spiritual, emotional, and mental recovery. Ms. Vavataga noted that twice a year, they take different groups of survivors to a hotel to foster relationships and build trust. Following this, participants engage in a three-week Bible study program focusing on various aspects of healing and personal transformation.
Senior Pastor Manasa Kolivuso from Faith Harvest Church in Nausori, who led the opening ceremony, commended the initiative. “Thank you for establishing this hub, allowing individuals to find a haven and connect with others who share similar concerns,” he remarked.
Cancer survivor Bulamarau Tikoduadua shared her inspiring story during the event. “A year ago today, I was completely paralyzed. My battle with cancer was brief yet intense,” Ms. Tikoduadua noted, underscoring the necessity for support systems like the Self Care Retreat Hub. “I am incredibly thankful for this organization; the journey after cancer treatment can be very isolating,” she added.
Ms. Vavataga expressed the organization’s ambition to eventually open a hospice, considering this achievement as just the beginning. The Self Care Retreat Fiji continues to depend on donations and partnerships for its operations. “To fund this building, I had to shave my head as part of the ‘Shave it or Save it’ campaign earlier this month,” she shared.