A pledge for cancer
Going up Mount Korobaba
CAREER firefighter, Ropate Pareti is hiking up Mount Korobaba in Lami at the end of this month to raise awareness and funds for cancer.
The Mualevu villager of Vanuabalavu, Lau said he was approached by the Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) last month to be a champion for the Pinktober and Movember campaigns.
“How fitting was the approach by the Fiji Cancer Society as I had lost family members and friends to the deadly disease too and have a few who are survivors,” he said. “I feel appreciative that Fiji Cancer Society thought of me — as someone who can raise funds for a worthy cause.”
He said as a champion, he had to raise funds that would be channelled towards the FCS.
“Not only does it help me grow professionally, but it helps deepen my understanding of my life’s purpose, direction, and connection with the greater world.”
The former Natabua High School scholar said losing people in this journey was not a good experience, especially when it was a family member or a friend.
“Personally time seems to freeze when you learn that someone you love has a life-threatening illness.”
“We tend to instinctively push the news away.”
Mr Pareti, who is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at the Fiji National University (FNU) said this would not be his maiden trek up the renowned Mount Korobaba.
“I have hiked Mount Korobaba twice as champions are to select a physical activity for the fundraiser - and what a way to raise funds by hiking up Mount Korobaba.”
He said a portion of the funds raised would be shared with the Fiji Ex-Firefighters Association with which he voluntarily assists. Mr Pareti will hike up Mount Korobaba on October 30 and is seeking $5 donations from members of the public towards the cause.
Donations to Pareti’s cause can be made to the following MPAiSA accounts;
■ Merewalesi Lesubula Taloga – MPAISA Account: 808 3867; and
■ Sandhiya Soonayna - MPAISA: 943 8272.