I am only thankful to still be alive.

This was the sentiment shared by 68-year-old Lavenia Narukutabua of Ekubu Village in Vatulele as she recalled the ordeal of TC Harold which damaged everything she had owned in April this year.

“That morning I heard on the radio that the cyclone was headed towards Kadavu with minimal impact of Vatulele,” Ms Narukutabua said.

“At about 9am everything changed, what we had not expected happened.

“Roofs blew off from houses, houses going down to the ground and everything. People were fearful for their lives.”

Ms Narukutabua was in her home with her two children, four grandchildren and two other relatives when TC Harold ravaged the island.

“I could feel our home shaking just like it could have been during a cyclone and we all tried our best to run out of our home unharmed to find shelter at the village church next door.

“I have a hard time walking nowadays, but only God knows how fast I had to run that day.

“It took us about 15 minutes walking against the strong winds because we were swaying back and forth.

“I am also thankful to the Prime Minister for visiting us today and for seeing first-hand the damage TC Harold has made on our village.

“It will take time to rebuild, but the villagers are helping each other out to at least build shelters to accommodate us as we slowly rebuild our permanent homes.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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