The Self Care Retreat Hub in Fiji, dedicated to supporting women cancer survivors, officially opened its doors yesterday in Nabua, marking a significant step forward in cancer survivor support.
Mereane Vavataga, the CEO of Self Care Retreat Fiji, emphasized the importance of this new hub. “It’s an oasis where women cancer survivors can come when sickness overwhelms them,” Ms. Vavataga commented. She noted that the retreat offers a safe environment for these women to rest, recharge, and discuss their experiences and challenges.
Established in 2021, the nonprofit organization focuses on the spiritual, emotional, and mental healing of women who have survived cancer. Ms. Vavataga mentioned that twice a year, they take groups of survivors to a hotel to build relationships and trust. After this, the organization conducts a three-week Bible study program that covers aspects of spiritual and emotional healing and personal transformation.
Senior Pastor Manasa Kolivuso of Faith Harvest Church in Nausori, who officiated the opening, praised the initiative. “Thank you so much for setting up this hub so that people can find a safe haven, a refuge, a place where they can identify with others who care,” he said.
Cancer survivor Bulamarau Tikoduadua shared her inspiring story at the event. “A year ago today, I was completely paralyzed. My cancer journey was short but aggressive,” she recounted. Her testimony highlighted the vital need for support systems like the Self Care Retreat Hub. “I’m really grateful for this organization because after cancer treatment, the experience can be quite lonely,” Ms. Tikoduadua added.
Ms. Vavataga also shared the organization’s future goal of opening a hospice, though she emphasized that this is just the beginning. The Self Care Retreat Fiji relies heavily on donations and partnerships to continue its operations. In a personal effort to contribute, Ms. Vavataga mentioned that she shaved her head recently to raise funds through the ‘Shave it or Save it’ campaign.