A near-fatal heart attack that forced a Labasa doctor to confront his own mortality has inspired the creation of a new fitness facility aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles in the North.
Obstetrician and Fiti Gym owner Dr Viliame Matatolu said the gym was born not out of business ambition, but from a personal health crisis in 2016 when he suffered a heart attack linked to obesity and was admitted to the Coronary Care Unit.
“I remember lying in the Coronary Care Unit on inotropic support, that first night I had no strength, no control, just fear and silence,” Dr Matatolu said.
He described the experience as a turning point that reshaped both his personal life and his approach to healthcare.
During his recovery, Dr Matatolu embraced exercise and discipline, losing weight and regaining his health.
He said the transformation opened his eyes to the importance of prevention in tackling Fiji’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“As a doctor, I see the effects of obesity and lifestyle diseases every day in hospitals.
“It is real and it affects surgeries, recovery and quality of life.”
Dr Matatolu said the gym was designed to encourage people to prioritise their health before illness develops.
Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu, who attended the opening, said facilities promoting healthier lifestyles were vital.
He said the facility would provide people across the Northern Division with greater opportunities to improve their health and wellbeing.
