A grandmother from Labasa, Amla Wati, is expressing immense gratitude towards the Friends of Fiji Health charitable organization from New Zealand for significantly improving her quality of life through a recent surgical operation.
Friends of Fiji Health consists of dedicated doctors, nurses, and support staff who have been performing complex surgeries at the Labasa Divisional Hospital since last Friday.
On Wednesday, Ms. Wati, aged 62 and a resident of Korovatu, Labasa, underwent surgery to remove a gall bladder stone.
“I had been suffering from pain for two months, and the news of an overseas medical team coming to perform operations brought me hope,” Ms. Wati shared. “Although I was initially scared at the thought of surgery, I am deeply grateful to the team for their gentle and friendly approach.”
She praised both the international and local surgeons involved in the operation, highlighting the high level of care she received.
The two-hour procedure has left Ms. Wati feeling rejuvenated, and she is currently recovering in the hospital.
“After this successful operation, I am eager to tell my community about how these wonderful doctors and others have transformed my life,” she stated. “At my age, such operations are costly, so I am especially grateful that this service was provided free of charge.”
Hazeem Hussein, the chairperson of the Labasa Hospital Board of Visitors, commended the medical team’s efforts, emphasizing that any operation that alleviates pain is a commendable deed.
Mr. Hussein acknowledged the sacrifices made by the medical team to assist patients with complex surgeries. The team is set to return to New Zealand this week, and Mr. Hussein remains hopeful for more visits in the future.