“EVERY child matter, early diagnosis saves lives.”
This was the message from Fiji’s Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa while officiating the launch of the Childhood Awareness Month organised by WOWs Kids Fiji.
Ravunawa announced that the Government is proud to support WOWS Kids Fiji through a $FJD100,000 Government grant, to assist the organisation in delivering practical support to children and families across Fiji.
He added that the 2026–2027 National Budget includes $FJD41 million towards establishing Fiji’s first Radiotherapy and Cancer Treatment Centre.
“Government cannot do this alone. Success depends on partnerships. It depends on organisations like WOWS Kids Fiji. It depends on healthcare professionals. It depends on communities, churches, schools, businesses, development partners, and every Fijian who chooses compassion over indifference.”
WOWS Kids Fiji is currently supporting almost 60 children across the country, while national assessments estimate approximately 45-50 new childhood cancer cases each year.
WOWS Kids Fiji Board Member Anabel Ali stressed that everyone needs to work together to understand that cancer is a disease that requires immediate medical attention and to dispel myths such as beliefs that cancer is a curse or the fault of parents or grandparents.
She encourages everyone to continue supporting WOWS Kids Fiji.
“Every contribution helps us provide essential support for our brave little champs and their families throughout their cancer journey.”
The World Health Organisation estimates that around 400,000 children and adolescents develop cancer every year.
The encouraging news is that childhood cancer is increasingly treatable.
Mother of a patient, Alumita Seru said the continuous support from government, donors and the public give them a powerful message that they are not alone in this journey.
“Cancer brings fear, anxiety, uncertainty, sleepless nights, and countless challenges. And I know most its mothers, grandmothers and the fathers can testify to this cancer rings, but it also reminds us that hope can be found in the kindness of others,” she said.
Ravunawa thanked the volunteers, donors, sponsors, and supporters of WOWS Kids Fiji for their generosity in providing transport, accommodation, food, medication, counselling, and emotional support to cancer patients.
“Your kindness reminds families that they are never alone,” he said.
