14 January, 2026, 7:24 am Central - 25°C Clouds

Leprosy survivor, Gade shares struggles and hope on World Leprosy Day

Leprosy survivor, Gade shares struggles and hope on World Leprosy Day

By Marika Rasekaseka
26/01/2025

The significance of World Leprosy Day today has reminded a survivor of the challenges she endured after being diagnosed with leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease.

34-year-old Titilia Gade told fijivillage News that one of the most difficult aspects of her journey was the fear of losing her loved ones due to neglect caused by the changes in her body.

She recalled asking her doctors during her admission if her disease could be cured, as her son was very young at the time.

viber-image-2025-01-26-18-05-07-652

Gade says the doctors reassured her with hope and provided her with a new ray of light.

While officiating at the event, Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu says World Leprosy Day serves as a vital reminder to eliminate the stigma surrounding the disease and to support those affected by it.

FEATURE NEWS
Flash Flood and Heavy Rain Warnings remain in force for Fiji
A Flash Flood and Heavy Rain Warnings remain in force for Fiji. The Nadi Weather Office says an active trough of low pressure with associated cloud a...
11 minutes ago
LATEST NEWS
Health services at Ono-i-Lau Health Centre have been temporarily suspended
Health services at the Ono-i-Lau Health Centre have been temporarily suspended following an incident that is currently before the court. The ...
13 hours ago

Heavy Rain and Flash Flood warnings remain for whole of Fiji
A Heavy Rain and Flash Flood warnings remain in force for the whole of Fiji.A strong wind warning also remains in force for the coastal areas of the ...
13 hours ago

Miss Fiji claims committee members said she was not Fijian
Miss Fiji, Dr Peggy Ravusiro says she did not sign the Miss South Pacific Pageant contract as she felt she was going to be a mannequin for ...
14 hours ago

FCOSS urges government to consider education vouchers for back-to-school assistance
The government should consider issuing education vouchers instead of cash for back-to-school assistance to prevent misuse and ensure the support ...
14 hours ago

Pacific Conference of Churches pays tribute to Reverend Tugi
The Pacific Conference of Churches has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Reverend Simione Tugi, honouring his ecumenical leadership and ...
15 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Electricity tariff increase for users consuming more than 100 units
There is an increase in the electricity tariff rate for consumers using more than 100 units from 1 January next year.Fijian Competition and Consumer ...
12 days ago

Fiji needs to act on human trafficking indicators associated with Grace Road Group
The United States remains deeply concerned about indicators of trans-national organised crime and human trafficking in Fiji associated with the Grace ...
23 days ago

Cheap seed oils are not good for our health - O'Neill
With over 80 percent of deaths in Fiji caused by cardiovascular disease based on the 2011 report, naturopath and nutritionist Barbara O’Neill is ...
23 days ago

TOP