Life- Saving Bypass Surgery Brings hope to Navua Family

After a major heart attack, Rakesh Kissun of Navua undergoes a successful bypass surgery at PSH Hospitals, giving his family a second chance at life.

Rakesh Kissun recently received a second chance at life after a major heart surgery at PSH Hospitals. The 63-year-old Rakesh went through a bypass operation that saved him from serious heart problems.

His son, Ruel Kissun, shared the family’s journey.

“A few months ago, we found out that Dad had a heart attack. At first, we thought it was a minor attack. But later, the doctors told us it was actually a major heart attack. They also found several blockages. It was very hard news for us to hear,” he said.

The family did not know where to turn at first. Ruel searched for information online and came across an article on a media platform about PSH Hospitals offering cardiac services.

“I read about the surgeries being done here in Fiji. I thought PSH Hospitals would be the best option for my dad. We booked an appointment and came for the tests at PSH Hospitals,” he said.

At PSH Hospitals, Rakesh went through an echo and later an angiogram. The results showed multiple blockages that were causing breathing problems and weakness. Doctors recommended urgent bypass surgery.

Despite the news, Rakesh stayed calm and strong.

“He was never afraid. He was always positive. That gave me and my mom the strength we needed,” said Ruel.

The surgery was performed by Dr Sanjeev Khulbey, a renowned cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon and the cardiac team of PSH Hospitals.

Dr. Khulbey shared that Kissun’s condition was complicated by several blockages, making bypass surgery the safest path forward. Today, he is on the road to recovery, and the doctor credits not only the procedure but also Kissun’s unwavering positivity and the constant support of his family in helping him heal.

Rakesh has never smoked in his life. He enjoys gardening and outdoor work and is always active. His family says this made the heart attack even more of a shock.

“When I first saw him after surgery, I felt sad because he looked weak. But as I saw him recover day by day, I felt happy. I knew he was safe and healing,” Ruel shared.

Rakesh himself could not say much, but through his son he gave thanks.

“He said the staff here are the best people he has ever met. The doctors and nurses made him feel safe and cared for.”

For the Kissun family, the surgery was not just a medical procedure. It was a gift of hope, love, and a new beginning.

Chief Executive Officer and founder of PSH Hospitals, Parvish kumar said this story shows why PSH Hospitals continues to expand its services.

“Our goal has always been to bring advanced medical care to Fiji. Families should not have to travel overseas for life-saving treatments. Seeing patients like Kissun recover inspires us to keep moving forward,” Kumar said.

Today, PSH Hospitals stands as Fiji’s leading super-specialty hospital — a trusted name across the Pacific for delivering cutting-edge treatment with compassion and expertise. For more information or bookings, email us at cardiology@psh.com.fj or call us on 892 2241