Nanise Marama is a cancer survivor and works as a volunteer with the Fiji Cancer Society.
Having been diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2016 while pregnant with her fifth child, she was told by doctors she could only be treated after she gave birth.
“I was five months pregnant, but I was still bleeding,” Marama says.
“I was really scared at that time and many things were going through my mind, but I thank the Lord for giving me strength.”
With the help of the Health Ministry, Marama travelled to India for radiation and chemotherapy treatment in August of 2016.
“I went alone to India and spent two months. My husband and sister-in-law looked after my two-week-old baby and children.
“It was really hard leaving my children behind, but with the support of my family, especially my husband, I endured the hardships associated with this terrible disease.”
Looking back, Marama said she was grateful that she could enjoy more time with her family after her treatment.
“While I took the advice of the doctors seriously, I believe that I survived because of God. I believe in his word. My faith pulled me through the pain.”
The 40-year-old from Naivakacau Village in Buretu, Tailevu is married to Poasa Yabakidrau and they live at her husband’s village in Maumi, Tailevu.
Their children go to school in Nausori.
Her eldest daughter, who is 20, stays at home while her four siblings attend Vunimono High School and Vuci Methodist.
Marama still attends her clinics at CWM Hospital and supplements her treatment with herbal medicine. Recalling the dark days of her struggle with cancer, Marama says there were times when she just wanted to give up.
“The pain was excruciating. There were times that I just couldn’t bear it anymore, but the support from my husband and my five children has was amazing.
“They helped me with the cooking and cleaning the house.
“They don’t ever want me to go through this sickness again and that has helped me survive. It was their support and care.”
These days Marama works with the Fiji Cancer Society’s outreach program and advises young couples.
“If there are anomalies with your monthly period or with your breasts, please, go and see a doctor.
“Don’t leave it too late because doctors cannot cure you completely when you are at the final stages of cancer or any sickness,” she said.
