The Fiji Police Force Women’s Network took time out from their operational duties last week to commemorate Pinktober. It was a sea of pink, as police women from various formations within the Fiji Police Force gathered at the Fiji Police Academy to network and remember their families and friends who had lost their lives to cancer.

An occasion that is rarely celebrated, the mindset had evolved with the transition in time and the fact that cancer was no longer an issue that could not be talked about.

The head of the Fiji Police Women’s Network and also chief administration officer of the Fiji Police Force Assistant Commissioner of Police Unaisi Vuniwaqa, reminded the women officers of the dual role they played.

“Many of us sitting in this room are mothers and also we play pivotal roles in this organisation. That is why it is important that we look after our health for the sake of our families and this organisation” ACP Vuniwaqa said.

Pinktober, commemorated in the month of October, remembers the disease of breast cancer, which affects women more than prostate cancer does to men. According to ACP Vuniwaqa, the commemoration of Pinktober was something the Women’s Network saw as their social responsibility.

“The Fiji Police Women’s Network as part of its social responsibility not only celebrates Pinktober alongside the many organisations in Fiji, but wishes to assist the nursing of diagnosed patients,” ACP Vuniwaqa added.

The Women’s Network donated a cheque of $1000 towards the Fiji Cancer Society and present to receive the token on behalf of the society was Alison Cupit who acknowledged the kind contribution.

“Your token this morning may be small in your eyes but on behalf of the cancer society, I wish to tell you that all donations whether in cash or kind is appreciated with utmost humility. This donation will go a long way and it may help save a life from being a victim of breast cancer” Mrs Cupit said.

Additionally, Mrs Cupit also encouraged the women present to change their mindset in addressing cancer and to get checked by a doctor.

The celebration is expected to be held again the same time next year, with the network organisers promising the celebration to be bigger and better. Fiji Police Media Cell