A father has shared a deeply personal account of his son’s battle with drug addiction, highlighting the growing impact of substance abuse on families in Fiji.
In a social media post, Pita Raiqeu said he chose to speak out not out of shame, but in the hope of helping other families facing similar struggles.
“This is not just a story—it is my reality. It is deeply personal, and it carries a pain I struggle to put into words, because it is about my son,” he said.
Mr Raiqeu described how his son, once a bright and energetic child, has changed dramatically after becoming involved with drugs.
“He talks to himself constantly… he tells me he hears voices,” he said. “As a father, there is nothing more frightening than watching your child drift into a world you cannot reach.”
He said his son struggled with sleeplessness, restlessness and erratic behaviour, prompting the family to seek medical help.
The young man was first admitted to Ba Aspen Hospital before later being taken to St Giles Hospital for specialised care.
Recalling the experience, Mr Raiqeu said the support from medical staff provided some comfort during a difficult time.
“The staff welcomed us with kindness… the doctor treated my son with care, patience and dignity,” he said.
He said a doctor explained that the condition was linked to substance use.
“It is not your son who is destroying himself. It is the substances he has been using. They are damaging his brain,” he was told.
Mr Raiqeu also reflected on his own absence during critical years of his son’s upbringing.
“Those were the years my son needed me most… and I was not there,” he said.
In an emotional moment, he recalled leaving his son at the hospital.
“He whispered to me, ‘Don’t worry, Dad. I will be okay.’… and said, ‘Please forgive me.’”
Mr Raiqeu has urged parents to be more involved in their children’s lives, particularly during their formative years.
“To every parent—please, be present… do not wait until it is too late,” he said.
He added that he shared his story in the hope of raising awareness and encouraging families to take early action against drug abuse.
