A family is grieving the tragic loss of their six-month-old son, Samisoni Vana Ratuvou, known affectionately as Yaca, who died from dehydration, which they attribute to inadequate medical care. The heartbreaking situation unfolded after Yaca fell ill with diarrhea on a Sunday. Seeking immediate medical help, the family rushed to the Qarani Health Centre the next morning, only to discover that the facility was closed due to a water supply disruption.
The family claims that during their initial visit, Yaca received no thorough examination, and the only treatment provided was two bottles of Panadol. This response left them unsure and ultimately forced them to return to their village. Unfortunately, Yaca’s health deteriorated rapidly, leading to severe shortness of breath by the evening. In a desperate attempt to save their son, the family returned to the health center around 11 PM, but they described the level of care as “extremely poor.”
A subsequent postmortem examination confirmed that dehydration caused Yaca’s death, prompting his family to voice their profound frustration with the healthcare system. They believe that if timely medical intervention had been available, Yaca’s life could have been saved. “Our hearts are shattered with grief, pain, and unanswered questions. This should never have happened,” one family member expressed.
In light of this tragedy, the family is appealing to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, urging them to improve the quality of healthcare facilities, staffing, resources, and emergency services, especially in remote areas like Gau. They emphasized the fundamental right to healthcare, stating, “Every life matters. Access to proper health care is not a privilege; it is a basic right,” and called on authorities to implement measures to prevent other families from experiencing similar sorrow.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for enhancements in healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly in underserved communities, to ensure that families receive the timely medical support they desperately need and deserve. The hope is that by raising awareness and addressing these systemic issues, future tragedies can be avoided, allowing every individual to benefit from essential healthcare services.