Carol Wallen, an 80-year-old from Melbourne, experienced a remarkable turnaround after a health crisis while vacationing in Fiji in December 2023. Wallen traveled to Fiji with her son, Darren, to celebrate her milestone birthday when she fell seriously ill at the Sheraton Fiji Resort. After developing complications, she was transferred to Nadi Hospital, where her condition continued to worsen.
Darren sought better medical care and discovered Pacific Specialists Healthcare (PSH) in Nadi, leading to his mother’s transfer. Tragically, Mrs. Wallen suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest upon her arrival, with her heart stopping for approximately 10 minutes. However, the quick response from the medical team, including Consultant Anaesthetist and Intensivist Dr. Ratu Vereniki Raiwalui, successfully resuscitated her.
Following a challenging battle, Mrs. Wallen expressed her gratitude for the care she received at PSH, remarking on the staff’s professionalism and dedication. She is eager to return to Fiji for another holiday once she fully recovers. Darren praised the hospital’s level of care, noting it was comparable to or even exceeded that of hospitals in Australia.
Dr. Raiwalui detailed the intensive care measures taken to stabilize Mrs. Wallen’s vital organs, emphasizing the successful outcome of her treatment. Remarkably, she transitioned from being on life support to sitting in a wheelchair for a breath of fresh air just days later. Eventually, she and her son were repatriated to Australia with the assistance of an intensive care team on a special Medivac flight.
PSH’s managing director, Parvish Kumar, highlighted the importance of hospitals forming partnerships with resorts to ensure that guests have immediate access to quality medical care if needed. This incident exemplifies the potential of healthcare facilities to support the tourism industry, ensuring that travelers can enjoy their vacations with peace of mind regarding their health.
This positive outcome not only showcases the effectiveness of the medical team at PSH but also serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming adversity. Mrs. Wallen’s journey is a testament to the importance of prompt medical intervention, underscoring the value of healthcare access even while traveling.
It is heartening to see how collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and tourism can foster a safer environment for visitors, paving the way for more success stories like Mrs. Wallen’s in the future.
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