A journey of resilience and hope
IN 2019, Leena Prasad’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. At 39, Mrs Prasad found herself facing a difficult battle while simultaneously caring for her sick mother, who had suffered from a stroke.
However, amidst the challenges, she found solace in the unwavering support of her loving husband, who stood by her side through thick and thin.
Before her illness, Mrs Prasad and her husband ran a successful business selling sweets.
However, as she underwent surgeries and treatments, they could not continue with the business and looked for alternative ways to help support their family.
“Life is beautiful so even being diagnosed with cancer did not deter me from searching for the right resources to get treatment. I couldn’t let fear consume me. I had my family to think about, and I refused to let cancer define me.”
During Mrs Prasad’s journey, she shared how the diagnosis felt like the end of the world but her resilience, optimism, and character shone throughout even in times of adversity.
“There were days when the pain was unbearable but I found strength in knowing that every day is a gift,” Mrs Prasad said.
While her health prevented her from returning to their business, she turned to sewing as a means of supporting her family financially.
“Adapting to a new way of life wasn’t easy, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore new passions and talents,” she shared.
Despite the challenges Mrs Prasad has faced, she continues to find beauty in life and reminds us all that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow.
Mrs Prasad is now cancer free and has urged all women young and old to always get medical treatment if they feel they are not well.
“God blessed us with doctors and nurses who helped in the treatment and as an individual I have learnt that we have a responsibility and take ownership of our own health. If you’re sick or not well, seek medical help.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, launched the care gap initiative earlier this month which also was in line with the World Cancer Awareness month where he highlighted that there was hope for those diagnosed with any form of cancer.
“Early detection is so important, because being diagnosed at later stages limits treatment options and often the outcomes are less favourable – a crossroad no family has to brave considering the financial burden that comes with cancer care, forcing families to make impossible choices betweenhealthcare and other basic necessities”
“However, amidst this darkness, there is hope. Hope hinged on advocacy, innovation, and collective action. Everyone present here has the power to close the care gap, and ensure that every individual facing cancer receives the care and support they deserve – I see it like team work, where the strength of the team is in each member.”
DPM Kamikamica urged for the prioritisation of survivorship care – which the Fiji Cancer Society team have done so well over the years, recognising that the journey does not end with treatment.
“Survivors often face long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges that requireongoing support and resources. It means investing in survivorship programs that address the holistic needs of survivors, from managing side effects to navigating the complexities of survivorship.”