COVID-19 Frontliner: Labasa Dr Leaves Home to Serve In Lautoka

The safety of my son is more important than any celebration, says Mareta Loaloa.

The 53-year-old mother originally from Natewa Bay, Cakaudrove said her 30-year-old son, Dr Jovili Loganimoce left their Labasa home on Wednesday to fulfill his calling in Lautoka.

“He has been working as a surgical doctor at Labasa Hospital for more than five years,” Mrs Loaloa said.

“He is a very quiet person and doesn’t discuss work with me.”

From left: Jona Kalepo holding his grandson, Junior Jona Kalepo, his wife Mareta Loaloa, daughter Ilisabeta Lawanuka with granddaughter on the lap, Seruwaia Loganimoce in Vunivau, Labasa on May 8, 2021. Photo: Shratika Naidu

The mother-of-three children said on Wednesday night around 10pm her son told her to pack his clothes.

“I was very worried when he told me he has to go to Lautoka and nothing further then this was discussed,” she said.

“Being the eldest in the family, he leads his life with discipline in order to set an example to others in the house.”

Her husband, Jona Kalepo, 56, said everyone was sleeping when their son left that morning.

“We respect his decision to answer his calling and pray for his safe return,” Mr Kalepo said.

“We all have been praying for him, asking the Lord to keep him safe from Coronavirus.”

Edited by Selita Rabuku

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