Sumintra Sundar is among 25 patients who recently benefited from a successful laser treatment for kidney stones at Labasa Hospital. The week-long initiative, conducted by a team from Friends of Fiji Health (FOFH) from New Zealand, took place last week. Sundar, a 60-year-old resident of Waidamudamu, Labasa, had been suffering from kidney stones since 2017.
As a mother of three, she had been waiting for treatment from an overseas medical team, as laser treatment with minimally invasive flexible telescopic cameras is unavailable in Fiji’s public or private hospitals. Previously, surgeries at public hospitals involved significant incisions, but thanks to FOFH, Labasa is now equipped with this advanced procedure.
Sundar was the first patient in Fiji to receive this treatment, overseen by team leader Dr. Imran Ali. Following the surgery, she enjoyed quality time with her grandchildren and husband, Ram Sundar, at home. “I am really thankful to FOFH for carrying out my surgery successfully,” she expressed. “I was worried about the possibility of being cut open, but I was relieved to discover that the procedure was entirely non-invasive.”
Dr. Ali shared his pride in being able to provide this service to everyday Fijians on behalf of FOFH. Established in July 2010, FOFH is a registered charity in New Zealand that aims to organize teams of specialists to deliver medical care to underserved communities in Fiji. Over five days, the team conducted free surgeries for those in need.