Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
11/08/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/07/2025 16:14
FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT: FIJIAN GRANDMOTHER...
After losing her vision in July this year, 69-year-old grandmother Varomue Marans longed to see the face of her five-year-old granddaughter.
When asked if there was a particular person she would like to see if her sight was restored, the emotional Rotuman native said she missed seeing her granddaughter.
Ms Marans is one of the 100 fortunate Fijians who were treated by the China (Guangdong) "Bright Journey" to Fiji mission at the Pacific Eye Institute this week.
Prior to her operation, the excited grandmother could not hide her anticipation as she thanked the Chinese medical personnel, Fiji's Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Atonio Lalabalavu and his Ministry for bringing these services closer to home for people like her.
She said that having a second chance at life was to her a gift from God.
Every day, patients like Ms. Marans leave the institute with their eyesight restored, gaining a renewed lease on life.
In a remarkable display of international medical cooperation, the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center from Guangdong Province, China, has been conducting its impactful "Bright Journey" initiative in Fiji since its inception in 2015.
This year marks the sixth visit of Dr. Chen Weirong and his medical team, who are providing much-needed cataract surgeries to local patients, addressing a critical need in Fiji's healthcare system.
Cataract patients in Fiji often face long wait times for surgical intervention, with many enduring months or even years before receiving treatment due to underdeveloped medical facilities.
The "Bright Journey" mission has effectively bridged this gap, offering hundreds of cataract surgeries over the past decade.
Many Fijian patients who were previously unable to see due to cataract have regained their sight, enhancing their ability to engage with their families and communities.
Dr. Chen Weirong stated, "This mission has not only restored eyesight but has rebuilt lives. We are honoured to provide medical assistance that fosters both health and friendship between our nations".
When asked if there was a particular person she would like to see if her sight was restored, the emotional Rotuman native said she missed seeing her granddaughter.
Ms Marans is one of the 100 fortunate Fijians who were treated by the China (Guangdong) "Bright Journey" to Fiji mission at the Pacific Eye Institute this week.
Prior to her operation, the excited grandmother could not hide her anticipation as she thanked the Chinese medical personnel, Fiji's Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Atonio Lalabalavu and his Ministry for bringing these services closer to home for people like her.
She said that having a second chance at life was to her a gift from God.
Every day, patients like Ms. Marans leave the institute with their eyesight restored, gaining a renewed lease on life.
In a remarkable display of international medical cooperation, the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center from Guangdong Province, China, has been conducting its impactful "Bright Journey" initiative in Fiji since its inception in 2015.
This year marks the sixth visit of Dr. Chen Weirong and his medical team, who are providing much-needed cataract surgeries to local patients, addressing a critical need in Fiji's healthcare system.
Cataract patients in Fiji often face long wait times for surgical intervention, with many enduring months or even years before receiving treatment due to underdeveloped medical facilities.
The "Bright Journey" mission has effectively bridged this gap, offering hundreds of cataract surgeries over the past decade.
Many Fijian patients who were previously unable to see due to cataract have regained their sight, enhancing their ability to engage with their families and communities.
Dr. Chen Weirong stated, "This mission has not only restored eyesight but has rebuilt lives. We are honoured to provide medical assistance that fosters both health and friendship between our nations".
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