Expressions of solidarity were evident throughout the process of preparing the patients for their operations. PMA extends gratitude to the Samoan community, including the Samoan High Commission to Fiji, the University of the South Pacific Samoan Student's Association, and various church organisations, who came together to donate blood for the operations in response to a call for donations for the children.  

His Excellency Aliioaiga Feturi Elisaia, the Samoan High Commissioner to Fiji, shared inspiring words at the events.  

“Today's season is a time of celebration as we are celebrating another day, another month, another year added to the beautiful young people of the Pacific.”  

Speaking to the project itself, His Excellency remarked: “In my line of work, we talk a lot about regionalism, but this is true regionalism right here."  

The children continue to be in the care of PMA’s in-country locum paediatrician, Dr Maryanne Kora’ai. She provided an update on their recovery.  

"They are all doing well, they are recovering as expected with no hiccups. The wounds are all clean, and they are responding very well to the treatment. I am very happy with the progress."  

Dr Kora'ai also spoke about the mothers' experiences during this critical time.  

"It’s a whole new experience for the mothers. They are happy now as they are starting to see the changes in their children. These were very big operations, so they are also anxious during this healing stage.   

"They are being very observant for anything amiss, so if they want to know anything, they are able to reach out to me, and I can help and reassure them."  

The Uto Bulabula - Healthy Hearts initiative is funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and coordinated by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group, through the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme. 

Keep updated on the Uto Bulabula Project through our PMA social media platforms, and hear more about the project at our upcoming PMA Conference.