Wheelchairs and other assistance worth $1.2m handed over to Spinal Injury Association

$1.2m worth of Wheelchairs and other equipment has been handed over to the Spinal Injury Association to assist people who are living with disabilities and those who have suffered from NCD.

While officiating at the event today, Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya says Fiji has greatly benefited from PhsyioNETs partnership since their first shipment in 2009, along with the aid from the British High Commission by getting the consignment while the freight and clearance cost was met by the Vodafone ATH Foundation.

Tabuya says the handing over of the 24th consignment of Fiji’s much-needed assisted devices like therapy equipment and medical consumables has shown commitment and friendship.

She says in recent decades, NCDs have become the highest killer in Fiji, causing thousands of deaths every year and many of those deaths are premature and have affected the lives of many more.

She adds the consignment is very much needed in Fiji and the Government is working closely with development partners to improve accessibility in public spaces.

The Minister also acknowledge unsung heroes like caregivers, partners, family, friends who have provided support services for persons with disabilities.

She says with the support and commitment from the society, with government initiatives, assistance of development partners, civil society organisations and faith-based organisations, persons with disabilities will continue to thrive.

Tabuya further says with the arrival of the consignment, she knows that many more persons needing mobility assistance will be able to practice their independence and participate more in decision-making.