In a significant display of compassion and cooperation, a team of volunteer medical professionals from New Zealand is preparing to conduct life-saving heart surgeries for children throughout the Pacific, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. This initiative will take place at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital in Suva from July 19 to July 30.
The mission, in partnership with the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group and the Hearts4Kids Foundation, forms part of the hospital’s “Gift of Life” program. This program is dedicated to providing essential cardiac surgeries free of charge to children born with congenital heart disease (CHD).
Leading the team is Dr. Kirsten Finucane, well-regarded for her previous role as the Head of Pediatric and Congenital Cardiac Surgery at Auckland’s Starship Hospital. Alongside her team of surgeons, nurses, and technicians, Dr. Finucane will collaborate with local Fijian medical staff to offer care to numerous young patients over the span of the two weeks.
Dr. Finucane noted, “We can treat more children, but our work goes beyond surgeries. We’re focused on building local capacity, creating a sustainable model, and ensuring that children across the Pacific have access to equitable healthcare.”
Dr. Krupali Tappoo, Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital, highlighted the importance of the mission, stating, “No child in the Pacific should ever suffer or die simply because they don’t have access to life-saving treatment.” The hospital has established an impressive track record, having performed over 378 free pediatric heart surgeries, symbolizing hope for countless families across the region.
This collaborative effort from international medical teams not only aims to provide immediate medical assistance but also fosters the development of local healthcare capabilities, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for children in the Pacific.
Such initiatives underscore the profound impact that compassion in healthcare can have, exemplifying the change that dedicated professionals can create in the lives of those in need. Importantly, the ongoing commitment of volunteers and medical practitioners around the world shows that unity and empathy can produce significant advancements in global health.
Leave a comment