WOWS Kids Fiji recently organized a successful three-kilometre Childhood Cancer Awareness Fun Walk at Suva’s Albert Park, attracting a large turnout to raise awareness and support for children diagnosed with cancer. The event highlighted the ongoing fight against childhood cancer in Fiji, where, according to Dr. Raynold Waisale, a paediatric registrar at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH), approximately 20 to 30 new cases are reported each year.
Dr. Waisale noted that currently there are nine active cases under treatment at CWMH and three cases at Lautoka Aspen Hospital. The importance of recognizing early warning signs of childhood cancer was emphasized, with Dr. Waisale urging parents to be vigilant for symptoms such as weight loss, persistent fever, and unusual lumps or bruising, which can often overlap with common illnesses and lead to misdiagnosis.
This Fun Walk represents a continuation of previous advocacy efforts by WOWS Kids Fiji, which plays a crucial role in raising awareness and providing assistance to families grappling with the emotional and financial burdens associated with childhood cancer. The organization currently supports over 70 children, emphasizing the need for community involvement and education around early detection of cancer symptoms.
The collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, such as pediatricians from both CWMH and Lautoka Aspen Hospital, and advocates within the community aim to enhance treatment understanding and improve care for affected children. With ongoing support from both governmental and non-governmental organizations, there is a hopeful outlook for the future of childhood cancer care in Fiji, aiming to increase survival rates and ensure children receive the necessary care and support they deserve.
In conclusion, the growing awareness and proactive measures taken during events like the Childhood Cancer Awareness Fun Walk continue to inspire hope and solidarity within the community, demonstrating that collective action can yield positive change for families facing the challenges of childhood cancer.
Leave a comment