It is tough being a father when your daughter is seriously injured, requires surgery, and lives with constant pain.
Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, appearing on The Lens@177, revealed he has come to terms with the possibility that his daughter may never walk again.
Mr Tikoduadua confirmed his daughter underwent surgery in Australia on Tuesday night following two earlier operations.
She has now undergone three surgeries in total, with the latest procedure focused on orthopaedic treatment.
In addition to serious injuries to her legs, he said she suffered nine broken ribs and sustained injuries to her lungs, liver and spleen. She also suffered an open fracture to her right forearm.
Mr Tikoduadua said his daughter has been living with constant pain and remains dependent on painkillers. Watching her endure such suffering, he said, has been one of the most difficult experiences he has faced as a father.
He has encouraged her to trust in God, place her faith in the doctors and nurses caring for her, and remain focused on recovery. Despite the challenges, he said he has seen progress since the first day after the accident.
His daughter was injured while carrying out her duties as a police officer at a checkpoint in Laqere, Nasinu when she was hit by a vehicle.
This emotional account speaks directly to the hearts of parents everywhere. It also reminds us of the risks our men and women in blue face every day.
Their work is not for the faint-hearted. Understanding the dangers associated with policing brings us back to an important fact. Many police officers willingly place themselves in harm’s way to keep communities safe. As the fight against illicit drugs and other forms of crime intensifies, such stories serve as a reminder that law enforcement often inches out significant personal sacrifice.
Not every shift ends routinely. Not every officer returns home untouched by the challenges of the job.
At its core, the work of the police force is centred on upholding the rule of law and protecting the public.
At a time when serious allegations have been levelled against some officers and concerns have been raised about abuse of authority, it is important to recognise the many officers who serve with professionalism, integrity and dedication.
The force needs public support to function effectively.
We also acknowledge the parents, spouses, children and extended families of police officers who live with uncertainty each day as their loved ones head off to work. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they share in the burdens carried by those who wear the uniform.
As a nation, we must continue to support the many officers who faithfully carry out their duties, often under difficult and dangerous circumstances.
We must stand firmly behind the rule of law while expecting the highest standards of conduct from those entrusted to enforce it.
And police officers must remain true to the oath they have sworn, to serve with honour, uphold justice without fear or favour, and protect the people they serve.
