CHRISTMAS came early at the Lautoka Aspen Medical-managed Hospital yesterday when Brisbane Broncos prop Payne Haas walked quietly into the children’s ward and lit up the room.
Fresh off winning the NRL Premiership final, Haas carried with him more than just Broncos merchandise. He brought joy, warmth, and a rare moment of excitement for children who spend most days surrounded by medical staff and machines. For a few precious minutes, the ward was filled with laughter, wide eyes, and small hands reaching eagerly for caps, shirts.
He was accompanied by his wife Leilani and his children.
Parents stood by grateful that someone of his caliber chose to spend time with their little ones.
Haas, humble and soft-spoken, said the visit meant just as much to him.
“First time coming here so it is very humbling and very grateful to be here,” Haas said.
As he moved from bed to bed, he spoke gently to the children, and made sure each child felt seen. Some whispered shyly, some clung to their new merchandise, but every one of them smiled.
Haas also acknowledge all the Broncos fans in Fiji for their support this season.
“Thank you to all our supporters here in Fiji, i have been here for a week now and i feel all the love and support and much love,” he added.
He shared the highlight of his visit.
“Went into children’s ward, it was very special seeing them smile makes us very grateful and happy and blessed to see how happy they are,” he added.
For parents like Ulita Tuivanuavou, the moment was unforgettable. She watched her child’s face transform with excitement.
She said they were grateful to see a player like Haas visiting them, a simple gesture that brought hope and smiles to their kids’ faces.
Later in the afternoon, Haas continued his visit and made his final stop at Ratu Navula College yesterday.
Broncos prop Payne Haas visits children?s ward at Aspen Lautoka Hospital. Picture: Anasilini Natoga
