There is relief for Fijians who need pacemaker procedures done as a team of volunteer specialist doctors and nurses from New Zealand, led by renowned cardiac physiologist Fiona Riddell, is currently at the CWM Hospital, providing critical pacemaker procedures.
This medical mission is being carried out in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Suva, marking another milestone in regional health partnerships and volunteer service.
The Rotary Club says the visiting team is part of the Pacific Islands Pacemaker Services, a voluntary outreach initiative chaired by Riddell.
They say with decades of experience and a legacy of training and mentoring cardiac physiologists, Riddell is widely regarded as the “Mother of Cardiac Physiology” in New Zealand.
The club says her tireless service to the region has earned her the New Zealand Order of Merit (2021).
Rotary Club says this week’s mission focuses on delivering life-saving cardiac care to patients who otherwise would not have access to such specialized procedures.
They say the collaboration between the New Zealand medical team and local health professionals ensures skill transfer, capacity building, and ongoing support for Fiji’s cardiac services.
Rotary Club of Suva President, Laisa Digitaki says they are honoured to support this incredible mission.
She says the impact on patients and their families is immeasurable.
Digitaki says this is what Rotary is all about — service above self, and transforming lives through compassionate action.
The club further says this initiative highlights the importance of regional cooperation and sustainable healthcare access in the Pacific.
They say the visiting team has made multiple trips to Fiji over the years, cementing a long-standing relationship based on shared commitment to health equity and service.
The procedures will continue through the week, with many patients already benefiting from renewed hope and restored health.
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