On Thursday, 13 August, the Lupus Foundation of Fiji, through our Ra Soqosoqo Vakamarama, conducted a lupus awareness programme in Vitawa Village, Ra.
Vitawa is predominantly a Methodist community, and we were deeply moved by what we heard and learned during our visit. Community members shared experiences of many people who had passed away after experiencing signs and symptoms that may have been consistent with lupus, while some survivors continue to live in the village today.
For many years, members of the community have relied on traditional methods of treatment, and there remains some scepticism about whether lupus is a real disease and whether effective treatment is available through our hospitals and health services.
This is exactly why community awareness is so important. We must continue to listen respectfully, build trust and provide clear information that complements traditional beliefs while encouraging people to seek appropriate medical care when they experience concerning symptoms.
Our message is simple: Lupus is real. It is treatable, and early diagnosis and treatment can save lives.
The Lupus Foundation of Fiji is grateful to the Ra Soqosoqo Vakamarama for helping us reach communities that are often difficult to access. We thank the community of Vitawa for welcoming us and openly sharing their experiences.
We also acknowledge with appreciation the Fiji Water Foundation and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services for its financial support, which enables us to continue bringing lupus awareness and health education directly to communities across Fiji.
Making Lupus Visible, one community at a time. 
#LupusFoundationOfFiji#MakingLupusVisible#LupusAwareness#Vitawa#RaProvince#SoqosoqoVakamarama#CommunityHealth#EarlyDiagnosis#LupusIsReal
