News Release

Fiji Mormons Support People with Cancer and Kidney Illnesses

 

A group of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints climbed Fiji’s Mount Korobaba recently, raising awareness of the needs of individuals with cancer and kidney illnesses.

“This hike is one small way of giving of ourselves to serve others,” said Anita Wakolo, wife of Elder Taniela Wakolo, Fiji Service Centre Manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“It was so painful to climb up the mountain but I knew the pain was only temporary. Those who suffer with cancer and kidney problems go through pain every day,” said Mrs Wakolo.

After the hike, Church representatives donated $2,800 in cash and $1,000 worth of hygiene kits to the Fiji Cancer Society.

Mr Satya Lingham, representing the Kidney Foundation of Fiji, expressed his gratitude for the donation.

“Many of our patients cannot handle the high costs of the treatments and the money donated will be used specifically for those who cannot afford [treatment],” he said.

While accepting the donation for the Fiji Cancer Society, Mrs Jayshree Baleisuva expressed her appreciation for the initiative by the Church.

“This is the first donation ever made by a faith-based organization for our society,” Mrs Baleisuva said.

Elder Wakolo told those attending the ceremony that for Latter-day Saints, service to those in need is a scriptural mandate. 

“We believe that when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are only in the service of our God,” he said.

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