7-year-old Jeremiah Tuiraviravi was one of seven childhood cancer survivors present at the launch of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2026, organised by WOWS Kids Fiji, with his journey serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection.
Tuiraviravi was just five years old when he was diagnosed with orbital sarcoma, a cancer affecting the eye, in 2024.
Speaking to fijivillage News, his mother Victoria Taria says that after undergoing a long period of treatment in hospital, her son is now on his five-year post-chemotherapy follow-up journey and is a healthy boy awaiting his regular reviews.
Taria says if his cancer does not return after the five-year post-chemotherapy period, he will be considered a survivor.
She says although he is now a healthy boy, returning to school has been one of his biggest challenges.
INSERT: Taria on challenges 30th July
Taria says she is grateful for the support provided by WOWS Kids Fiji, including providing private tutoring to help her son get back to normal with his education.
She says WOWS Kids Fiji has supported their family throughout Tuiraviravi's medical journey by providing medication that was not available through the hospital, transport to and from medical appointments, counselling, and education support for children returning to school after treatment.
Taria is urging parents and guardians to take their children to hospital when they are sick, saying early detection can save a child's life.
Meanwhile, speaking at the launch, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa highlighted that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, dream and live a healthy life.
