The Self Care Retreat (Fiji) Hub, designed to support women who have survived cancer, officially opened its doors yesterday in Nabua, marking a crucial step in aiding cancer survivors.
Mereane Vavataga, the CEO of Self Care Retreat Fiji, highlighted the significance of the new facility. “It’s an oasis where women cancer survivors can come when sickness overwhelms them,” Ms. Vavataga explained. She emphasized that it serves as a safe environment for survivors to rest and share their experiences and challenges.
Founded in 2021, the NGO is dedicated to fostering the spiritual, emotional, and mental healing of women who have battled cancer. Ms. Vavataga noted that the organization hosts two retreats each year for different groups of survivors to strengthen relationships and build trust. Upon returning, participants engage in a three-week Bible study program aimed at addressing spiritual and emotional healing, along with personal transformation.
Senior Pastor Manasa Kolivuso of Faith Harvest Church in Nausori, who led the opening ceremony, commended the initiative. “Thank you so much for setting up this hub so that people can find a safe haven, a refuge where they can connect with others who care,” he remarked.
Cancer survivor Bulamarau Tikoduadua also shared her poignant story during the inauguration. “A year ago today, I was completely paralyzed. My cancer journey was short but aggressive,” she recounted, underscoring the necessity of supportive environments like the Self Care Retreat Hub. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m really thankful for this organization because after cancer treatment, the experience can be very isolating.”
Looking to the future, Ms. Vavataga revealed plans to establish a hospice, but she emphasized that this new hub is just the beginning. The Self Care Retreat Fiji continues to depend on donations and partnerships to maintain its services. She shared her personal commitment to fundraising, stating, “Even for this building, I had to shave my hair to raise funds,” referring to her involvement in a recent fundraising campaign.