A father, who lost his first-born to congenital heart disease, is living in his son’s memory by walking approximately 32km to raise awareness of the disease that killed him.

Michael Fong, a business consultant engaged in occupational health and safety consultancy, lost his son, Brian Fong, in 1998.

Since then, Mr Fong has been contributing in his own special way to amplify awareness of the disease.

Back in 2015, he walked around Viti Levu. This time around, he will raise awareness by walking in Suva on September 29 which coincides with World Heart Day.

Mr Fong, a former Ba and Nadroga football rep, said he still remembers the day his son died and how he became involved in the awareness.

“As a matter of fact, we just celebrated his 24th death anniversary,” he said.

“I then actively became an advocate of a congenital heart defect,” he said.

“I have been talking to friends and corporate houses about congenital heart disease and just the health and wellness of the people, particularly with women because the baby’s health will be determined by the mother’s health.”

“So that’s one of the reasons that I’m actually actively involved with children who are suffering from congenital heart defects.”

Permit To Walk

Mr Fong has received a permit for his route which is from Laucala Beach to Nausori via Princes Road, return to Laucala Beach via Kings Road and Ratu Dovi Road to My Suva Picnic Park.

He’s also made an appointment with Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services Dr James Fong where he hopes to fine-tune the establishment of a children’s heart foundation.

Mr Fong has called on Fijians to be a part of his worthy cause.

“Let’s observe and celebrate World Heart Day 2022 on September 29 with the aim of increasing awareness of cardiovascular diseases and how to control them to negate their global impact,” he said.

“Good overall health can also protect you from Type Two diabetes, asthma, joint pain and a number of other chronic diseases and conditions.

“It can even reduce your risk for cancer.”

Story by: Waisea Nasokia

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj