In late August, the serene environment of palm-fringed Natuvu was filled with the sounds of chatter as people gathered from various regions of Cakaudrove, Macuata, Bua, and even Viti Levu, seeking health restoration, particularly focusing on improving their vision. The Mission at Natuvu Creek, functioning for nearly two decades, has attracted a diverse group of individuals from around the world. Nestled on a 750-acre estate featuring an extinct volcano, tropical forests, and the picturesque Buca Bay, this medical sanctuary was established with a vision to provide comprehensive medical services and health education to the rural population in Fiji.
The Mission operates as a non-denominational, faith-based nonprofit organization. Volunteers from diverse religious backgrounds come together, united by a common goal of selfless service. Medical teams, consisting of doctors and support staff, dedicate their time and energy to bring healing to others. Each year, approximately 20 medical teams volunteer at Natuvu, offering care to Fijians while gaining valuable cultural experiences.
Dr. Randy Edwards, a California optometrist, described his experience in Fiji as transformative. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help others, praising the graciousness and warmth of the local people. Dr. Peter Andrews, a Sacramento ophthalmologist, noted the professionalism of the clinic, likening it to those in the United States and emphasizing the community’s trust in the mission.
In addition to medical care, volunteer doctors experience profound spiritual connections during their stay. Dr. Marta Tooma, the founder, emphasized the importance of spiritual healing alongside physical care. The mission provides for its patients’ spiritual needs, with chaplain Petero Siwatibau playing a key role in offering support and guidance since the mission’s inception in 2008.
Since opening, the Mission has witnessed numerous miraculous recoveries, including restoring vision to those who had been blind. A significant milestone occurred when a donated cornea helped a 34-year-old woman regain her sight, demonstrating the life-changing impact of their work.
Local residents, like Nasiban Bibi from Labasa and Filomena Tui from Buca Village, expressed their gratitude for the free, high-quality medical services, with many traveling long distances for treatment. The clinic not only provides direct medical attention but also empowers the community through local vendors selling food to visitors, creating economic opportunities.
Over the past 20 years, the Mission at Natuvu Creek has made a substantial difference in the lives of more than 10,000 patients annually, bridging healthcare gaps in the region. Medical and dental volunteers from around the globe deliver a wide range of services, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community. Currently, a dental clinic providing essential services is ongoing, highlighting the mission’s commitment to serving those in need.