This year, the Fiji Cancer Society has spent $16,240 after assisting the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva and the Lautoka Hospital to clear up surgical backlogs.

This was for a total of 28 surgical procedures.

The society’s board member and western support group chair, Milika Marshall said the funds donated by various organisations to the society were used for the needs of patients.

Ms Marshall said Pinktober was also a time to think about all cancers and identify early warning signs and reduce the risks.

“Our patients have accessed our taxi services amounting to $1150 to ensure that they go to their treatment, their chemotherapy with conducted home visitation,” she said.

“For our palliative patients, 775 times and we have provided 64 ambulance transfers.”

“We purchased medication 388 times and we have supplied 850 sets of adult diapers.”

She said the main focus for the society was to raise awareness, get people to know their bodies and go for their initial checks.

Feedback: nicolette.chambers@fijisun.com.fj