A coordinated effort involving frontline health workers, Government leaders and emergency responders has ensured a nine-year-old boy from Lau received urgent specialist treatment at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services said Sireli Cama, who has been battling Buccal Necrotizing Fasciitis for the past week, safely arrived at CWM Hospital’s Children’s Ward alongside his grandmother, Takayawa Imele, following an emergency helicopter retrieval from Moce.
The Ministry described the operation as “a true team effort”, crediting medical staff, the helicopter crew and Government leaders for the successful rescue.
According to the Ministry, the mission began when the District Nurse in Moce went in search of mobile phone coverage to alert authorities.
“Our dedicated District Nurse went above and beyond, searching tirelessly for cellular connectivity just to make the critical call that set this mercy flight into motion.”
The Ministry also acknowledged the intervention of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu, who approved an urgent request for the helicopter to refuel at Albert Park in Suva to speed up the retrieval.
“Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka and Minister for Health & Medical Services Honourable Dr Atonio Lalabalavu stepped in immediately to facilitate the approval. True leadership is defined by swift action in moments of crisis.”
The Ministry said the rapid response ensured Sireli reached the country’s main referral hospital without delay.
“Thanks to this rapid response, Sireli is now in the best hands possible at CWMH, receiving the specialized care he needs.”
The Ministry thanked everyone involved in the rescue, including the pilot, the Moce medical team and staff at CWM Hospital.
Sireli’s grandmother, Takayawa Imele, also expressed her gratitude.
She thanked God for His guidance and safe travel, as well as the Prime Minister, the Minister for Health and everyone who helped ensure her grandson arrived safely in Suva for treatment.
