Government Donate $4M to Sai Prema Foundation

Two hundred recorded cases of congenital heart defects are being recorded annually by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

Minister responsible Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu revealed this while launching the Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week yesterday at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Heart Hospital in Nasese.

Recognising the need to address the issue, the Government through the ministry, donated a grant of $4 million to the Sai Prema Foundation Fiji to support the work that they do. Dr Ratu Atonio said before the hospital opened that there were no treatments available in the country, and families struggled to access proper treatment.

Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu (garland), with children and Sai Prema Foundation Hospital representatives during the Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week celebrations on February 5, 2024. Photo: Ministry of Health & Services Media

Dr Ratu Atonio said living with a congenital heart defect could be challenging for patients and their families.

“It’s crucial that we, as a society, work to raise awareness and support those affected by congenital heart defects,” he said.

Director of the Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital, Dr Krupali Tappoo, said the goal of this awareness week was not just to bring attention to the prevalence of congenital heart disease but to foster understanding, support, and compassion for those living with these conditions.

“It is a time to celebrate the resilience of individuals facing these challenges and to acknowledge the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals, researchers, and support organisations working to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for all affected individuals,” Dr Tappoo said.

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