The Fiji Cancer Society is gearing up for impactful advocacy and fundraising initiatives this October and November as part of the Pinktober and Movember campaigns. With a renewed focus on community engagement and vital patient support, the organization aims to enhance awareness and support for cancer patients in Fiji.
CEO Belinda Chan is urging the public to actively participate in upcoming events, emphasizing the dual purpose of raising funds and engaging in physical activities. She stated, “We encourage people to put some physical activity into it when they decide to host an event and raise funds for society,” highlighting the importance of community involvement in driving their initiatives. The funds raised through these events are critically important for addressing surgical waiting lists and providing essential support to cancer patients in Fiji, where the demand for services often exceeds availability.
Chan explained that while cancer treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy, is offered at no cost, additional funds help manage surgical backlogs. These contributions enable surgical teams to operate outside of normal hours, ensuring that patients receive timely care. “The longer the delay, then it’s not good,” she noted, underscoring the urgency of addressing these backlogs.
In November, the Fiji Cancer Society has planned two significant events to raise awareness about prostate cancer. Among these is a golf tournament—sponsored by Telecom Fiji on November 8—and an oncology conference slated for November 16-17, which will feature speakers from Australia discussing the current state of cancer care.
Previous campaigns have demonstrated the community’s growing involvement and dedication to cancer awareness. During the recent Pinktober initiative, the Fiji Cancer Society recorded 772 new patients and conducted numerous awareness campaigns, reflecting the critical role of lifestyle factors in cancer risk and the importance of early detection. Community-driven fundraising efforts have also been significant; for instance, the annual Charity Golf Tournament last year raised a record $33,420 for the Fiji Cancer Society, surpassing previous years’ totals. Such initiatives highlight the increasing collaborative spirit in the fight against cancer.
Overall, the upcoming events promise to continue building on these successes, fostering greater awareness and supporting patients in need of care while promoting a healthier lifestyle among the community. The Fiji Cancer Society’s commitment to advocacy and patient support presents a hopeful outlook for the future.
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