This initiative, established under the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and managed by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group, brought together regional partners to ensure these children could undergo their operations in Suva, Fiji. 

George Iulio, from the village of Moata'a, Samoa, was one of the patients. In July of last year we learned that George had a severe heart conidtion , and required a complex cardiac surgery,  which could not be provided back home.  

George, along with all the other children under the initiative, were successfully operated on by the Heart4Kids team at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital in Suva, Fiji.  

We spoke to George’s mother, Logo, about how life has changed since his surgery. 

"George is so different now," she shared. "He has put on weight, and he doesn’t complain about his breathing anymore. All he does is walk and play. I am happy to say that it is hard for me to keep up with him sometimes." 

“My family and I are so happy, and so grateful. I no longer feel that I can’t be away from him all the time, because I know he’ll be ok. 

“A part of me will always worry. As his mother, I don’t think that ever goes away.” 

Heart disease remains one of the leading health challenges in the Pacific. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of congenital heart conditions and limited access to specialised care puts many Pacific children at risk. The Uto Bulabula Healthy Hearts initiative was created to bridge this gap, providing life-saving paediatric cardiac care to families who otherwise wouldn’t have access. 

This Heart Health Awareness Month, PMA reflects on the profound impact of this initiative. We are proud to have supported children like George and remain committed to improving heart health outcomes for Pacific communities.