Ovarian cancer survivor Annie Hatch is urging Fijians to prioritise regular health checks and genetic testing, saying early detection could save lives.
Ms Hatch, who credits early medical testing with helping her survive ovarian cancer, urged people not to fear medical tests or ignore medical advice.
“I had ovarian cancer, and I’m very lucky that I got myself tested,” she said.
“I’m just a person who likes to get tested for everything and take advice that’s been given to me.”
Ms Hatch’s message is deeply personal, having lost several siblings to cancer and heart disease. She is now the only surviving child among 12 siblings.
Her family was later found to carry the Lynch syndrome gene, a hereditary condition that increases the risk of developing certain cancers.
The discovery followed her brother’s diagnosis with kidney cancer in Australia, when doctors advised him to inform other members of the family about the potential genetic risk.
The information was subsequently shared with Ms Hatch’s nieces and nephews, who were encouraged to undergo testing. However, she said many had yet to do so, while the family continued to experience further losses.
“If we had known earlier, many deaths could have been prevented.”
Drawing on her family’s experience, Ms Hatch stressed that her message was not limited to her relatives but was intended for everyone, particularly those who may be hesitant to seek medical advice or undergo screening.
“Go get yourself tested. It’s no big deal, and if you go to the (Fiji) Cancer Society, it’s free. They will help you with everything.”
She urged people to take the opportunity to learn about their health risks, emphasising that early action could make a significant difference.
“Maybe this is the opportunity that God has given me to let you all know, even if you’re not my niece or nephew, go get yourself tested.”
Ms Hatch also expressed her gratitude to the Fiji Cancer Society for providing her with a platform to share her experience and raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
Her message remains clear.
Knowing your health risks, seeking medical advice and acting early can help save lives.
“It can be healed if it’s caught early.”
