A 13-year-old girl whose plea for urgent eye surgery moved people across Fiji has returned home after successfully undergoing a sight-saving operation in India.
Giya Geetanglie Prasad underwent an amniotic membrane grafting surgery earlier this year after a public appeal raised $5000 to help cover travel and medical costs.
Late last year, The Fiji Times published an appeal seeking the funds needed for the urgent procedure after her mother, Evlin Ashika Devi, shared the family’s struggle to find specialised treatment overseas so her daughter could continue her education in the 2026 academic year.
Kontiki Finance later stepped forward with the $5000 contribution after reading about Giya’s story.
“When we first read Giya’s story, we knew we wanted to help in whatever way we could. Today, seeing her return home after a successful surgery reminds us why corporate responsibility matters. Supporting families during critical moments is part of who we are,” said Kontiki Finan Group HR manager Leeanne Dalton.
Ms Devi expressed her heartfelt gratitude.
“We are extremely thankful to Kontiki Finance and everyone who supported us,” she said.
“The contribution made a huge difference in helping us get to India for Giya’s treatment. Seeing her return safely after a successful operation is a blessing.”
Ms Devi said Giya began experiencing eye problems when she was six years old.
“She (Giya) initially had swollen eyes and redness in the eye lens, and then she complained of itchiness and pain. Despite being on various medications, her condition had worsened.”
Doctors have advised Giya will need to return to India in September for another procedure to continue improving her condition.
