Big turnout for annual Old Skool Ball
The Viti Spinal Injuries Association of Fiji recorded a big turnout at their annual Old Skool Ball held at Grand Pacific Hotel last Friday.
More than 300 people with spinal disability were assisted by the Viti Spinal Injury Association of Fiji. The Old Skool Ball has become the prime charity event of the year focused on raising funds to assist those living with spinal injuries. Former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau advised that people must give more because it helped those in need to have a better life and a secure future.
All Blacks legend Sir Michael Jones was one of many well-known faces at the event.
After retiring from rugby, Sir Michael has been heavily involved in community and social work and is a role model and inspiration throughout the Pacific.
Sir Michael said social and mental support was needed to help spinal disabled people get out of their shell.
Spinal injury patient Sekonaia Kotobalavu, 31, who has been assisted by the Viti Spinal Injury Association of Fiji with a new home with proper wheelchair access, shared his difficulties and expressed his appreciation to all who were present during the dinner. Mr Kotobalavu said his old house at Wailea settlement, Vatuwaqa was in a flood-prone area and it would only take a few minutes of heavy rain for the area to become flooded.
“The new home in Kalabu, Nasinu, makes life very easy for me and I am very happy to leave something behind for my family when I pass away,” Mr Kotobalavu said.
Prizes that were auctioned off last night including travel, accommodation, dining and sports memorabilia and also the All Blacks jerseys signed were donated by former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Sir Michael and All Blacks 7s legend Eric Rush.