Viki Wini Tora’s journey through breast cancer began in 2019 when she refuses to succumb to despair, instead opting to face her diagnosis with resilience and positivity. The 48-year-old mother of seven first noticed a lump in her breast and, despite initial treatments that failed to bring improvement, she insisted on further testing, eventually leading to a biopsy that confirmed her cancer diagnosis.
During the emotionally turbulent wait for her results, Tora wrestled with fears about her children’s futures, contemplating what would happen if she did not survive. “Negative thoughts were inescapable,” she admitted, but her resolve kept her focused on recovery.
Thanks to her proactive approach and support from family, Tora maintained a strict diet during her treatment and successfully battled the disease. After five years, she received the news that she was cancer-free and would no longer need follow-up check-ups.
Tora’s experience has fueled her passion for advocacy, leading her to work with the Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) as a patient care staff member. Her role involves supporting women in similar situations, particularly those who often lack family support during their treatment. “I feel sorry for the women who don’t have any family members there to support them,” she said, often encountering heartbreaking stories from neglected patients.
Echoing this sentiment, the experiences of other survivors, such as Mere Tikoduadua, who is currently battling stage 4 breast cancer, highlight the importance of support networks. Mere named hope as her guiding principle through adversity, much like Tora. Both women illustrate the power of resilience in the face of life-altering diagnoses.
Tora encourages fellow breast cancer patients to seek available resources and share their experiences. “When women can talk about their journeys, we can better advise them on what to do,” she emphasized.
The stories of both Tora and Mere not only resonate with the struggles of navigating cancer but also encapsulate a powerful call to action for community support and friendship among fighters and survivors of the disease.
In an age where cancer remains a significant health concern, the journeys of survivors like Viki Wini Tora serve as pillars of hope and resilience to many, reminding us all of the strength found in consolidated community support and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook even in the darkest times.
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