Editorial comment – Walk On Walk Strong

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Editorial comment – Walk On Walk Strong

WALK on Walk Strong (WOWS) Kids Fiji yesterday marked the end of childhood awareness month with a church service in Suva.

In the face of the messages and testimonies that were delivered, there was enthusiasm in the collective effort to create awareness about childhood cancer in Fiji.

Yesterday was also about reflection of the journey that emanated off the dreams of a young girl — Tae Kami — who died of cancer.

The service, held at the Pacific Tertiary Evangelistic Center (PETC) at Grantham Rd in Suva, remembered the lives of children who had died of cancer.

Speaking during the service, WOWS Kids team leader Viola Lesi said the service was important as they thanked God for all He had done and for the things that were yet to come.

There was a candle-lighting ceremony to remember the lives of the children who had died.

She said so far this year the WOWS Kids Fiji had lost 18 children to cancer.

“There were life lessons that we learnt from these children through their tenacity and the grace they had in handling the very difficult journey they were given in their short life.”

The childhood cancer journey isn’t an easy one. Not many people will be able to comprehend the challenges parents and guardians face with their suffering children.

It is a sad journey, but there have been glimpses of hope and joy as well.

In the face of all that sits WOWS Kids Fiji, an organization that has taken on the responsibility of assisting suffering children and their parents and guardians.

Yesterday, parents and guardians were reminded that God knows of their struggles and He is always there for them.

The sentiments shared by the Rev Wilfred Regunamada, the secretary communications and overseas missions for the Methodist Church in Fiji, were a poignant reminder about the harsh realities of life, with a touch of hope.

He said many had turned away from the faith because they were of the view that being a Christian one would not go through any trials or difficulties. Children were treated to a family fun day on Saturday in Suva.

Ms Lesi said children who suffered from cancer did not get to enjoy life like normal children which was why the organisation came up with the idea to have activities for them and their families.

“Cancer steals their childhood so as an organisation we try to make amends and organise fun activities for them,” she said.

Ms Lesi said the program also helped parents talk among themselves and share stories about their difficult journey.

This Saturday, WOWS will be organising a ball at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva to raise funds for its projects.

As we come to the end of the Childhood Cancer month, perhaps we should revisit the critical message of early detection.

There is hope in early detection.

That must be a key part of the fight against childhood cancer.

It shouldn’t just be considered a death sentence.

A change in mindset, however, must be encouraged.

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