From Kiribati to Suva: A mother’s love and a son’s second chance

Updates / News, 14 Aug 24

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) reflects on the incredible stories of the fifteen young patients and their families whose lives have been transformed by the Uto Bulabula – Healthy Hearts initiative. Funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade through the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme, this initiative has been a beacon of hope, bringing life-changing outcomes to these families.

One of these stories is that of Tereiango, a mother from the island of Kiribati; her son, Ereata, was born with a heart condition. She left behind her work to accompany Ereata to Suva, where lifesaving operations awaited at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital.

“My name is Tereiango, and I am the mother of Ereata, who is my second son and he was born with a heart sickness. We come from the beautiful island of Kiribati, and I am so grateful to be in Suva, Fiji.

"In Kiribati, I work for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development but I am here on leave without pay because our family is always the priority.”

Tereiango recalls not knowing what her son was enduring before his diagnosis.

“I first learned of my son's sickness this year when my doctor in Tarawa told us that he has a condition. I always knew that he had a problem but did not think that it could be a heart disease.

"I think back to before we knew. I would tell him to do something, and he would always reply that he was tired. After learning what he has, I always prioritise what he needs.”

Thanks to the efforts of the Hearts4Kids surgical team, Ereata and the other young patients now have the precious gift of a longer, healthier life.

As Tereiango looks to the future, her hopes for Ereata shine brightly.

“When my son gets better, we will return to Kiribati, and I want him to continue school. Right now, he is in form 4, and I want him to continue, and for the best chance possible for a good future.

"My husband and I work hard for our kids. Whatever he decides to do with his future, what we want the most is for him to have a good life.”

Tereiango expresses gratitude to PMA for their support in helping organise their travels and arrangements for their stay in Suva from accommodation, weekly allowance and organising translators and transport for medical appointments. She feels optimistic about her son’s future, which speaks to the Uto Bulabula – Healthy Hearts initiative not only saving lives but also empowering families to dream of brighter futures.

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