Naomi Pareti, a 39-year-old from Fiji, faced a life-altering revelation when she discovered a lump beneath her left breast in June of last year. Initially hesitant to seek medical advice, an inner voice ultimately urged her to pursue a diagnosis, a decision that proved pivotal in saving her life.
After being referred to the Oncology Department at CWM Hospital, she consulted with Dr. Josese Turaga, the surgeon responsible for her later mastectomy. Not satisfied with a single opinion, Naomi sought confirmation from two additional medical professionals at the Hope Clinic and the Maharaj Medical Clinic, all of whom recommended urgent intervention.
Naomi began her chemotherapy treatment on March 3, facing eight cycles of the taxing but essential therapy, split evenly before and after her surgery, which took place on June 2. Today, she proudly identifies as a cancer survivor, sharing the powerful message that “early detection saves lives.”
“We cannot rely on other people’s opinions about our health,” she passionately advises. “If you feel something unusual, go to the hospital, go to the Fiji Cancer Society. Don’t wait.” Naomi attributes her ability to overcome this challenge to a robust support system that included her husband, children, in-laws, church community, and friends.
The journey through cancer was particularly hard for her children, who had to cope with the emotional toll of watching their mother endure chemotherapy’s physical transformations, including hair loss and fatigue. Reflecting on this, Naomi’s eldest daughter even prepared her for the possibility of losing her hair by researching chemotherapy online. In response, Naomi sought to instill hope, stating, “I wanted them to learn that cancer doesn’t mean the end; it means you fight harder.”
Naomi’s story echoes the experiences of other breast cancer survivors in Fiji, reflecting a growing awareness of the necessity of early detection and the importance of familial and community support. Much like Mere Tikoduadua, who is currently battling stage 4 breast cancer, and Viki Wini Tora, who overcame her own cancer challenges, Naomi’s resilience serves as an inspiration for many. They highlight the collective strength found in support systems and the shared understanding among those fighting similar battles.
As survivors like Naomi, Mere, and Viki share their stories of courage and hope, they empower others to prioritize their health, emphasizing that taking proactive steps can lead to positive outcomes in their health journeys. Together, these narratives illuminate the powerful message that resilience, community, and hope can significantly impact one’s experience with cancer.