Capacity Development Officer with the Australian Volunteers Program, Chrissie Stone says with recent school screening programmes showing that around one in every 50 children is living with the condition.
Stone says the organisation has had a positive response from visitors at Fiji Showcase, with many parents stopping by to learn more about the disease while their children take part in colouring activities.
She says the disease often develops from untreated sore throats or skin sores, but can be prevented if children receive early treatment and antibiotics at health centres.
Stone says rheumatic heart disease is also being detected in pregnant women during routine screenings, with findings showing that the condition is about twice as common in females as in males.
She says people diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease often need monthly Benzathine Penicillin injections for at least 10 years, which can be challenging for both patients and their families.
Stone acknowledged the support of Cure Kids Fiji, Cure Kids New Zealand and the Ministry of Health for helping establish and support the work of Heart Heroes Fiji.
She is encouraging families affected by rheumatic heart disease to reach out to the organisation through its Facebook and Instagram pages, stressing that they are not alone and support is available.
Stone says with the right care and treatment, people living with rheumatic heart disease can continue to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Meanwhile, Fiji Showcase doors open at 12pm today.
People can also look forward to a packed line-up of entertainment throughout the day at the Vodafone External Stage, with international aerial performer AussieBela set to light up the stage from 1.30pm to 2pm before returning in the evening from 6.30pm to 7pm.
Adding to the excitement, Brazilian juggler Piva will thrill audiences with a performance on the Internal Entertainment Stage from 3.30pm to 4pm and will return for another show from 6.30pm to 7pm.
Live music will take centre stage from 5pm to 6pm, with the Viti FM Back to Front Band bringing their signature sound to the crowd.
Wrapping up the evening's entertainment, the Sweet Sensation Band will keep the energy flowing from 7pm to 8pm, bringing to a close a full day of performances for families and visitors.
